Locations

• Leicester
• Manchester (HVO)

About the IPAF 3A and 3B Training Course 

The IPAF 3A and 3B Operator Training Course [Saturday option] provides essential training for anyone operating Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), including scissor lifts and boom lifts (also known as cherry pickers). 

Delivered on Saturdays for convenience, this course combines classroom-based learning with hands-on training and is ideal for those needing flexibility without compromising on quality or compliance. 

 

Successful delegates will receive IPAF certification and a Powered Access Licence (PAL) Card, accepted worldwide as proof of MEWP competence. 

MEWP Categories Covered 

This course qualifies delegates in the following IPAF categories: 

 

• 3A – Mobile Vertical: Scissor lifts, vertical personnel platforms 

• 3B – Mobile Boom: Self-propelled booms including articulated and telescopic boom lifts (cherry pickers) 

Course Format and Duration 

• Duration: 1 full day 

• Method: Classroom tutorials, practical demonstrations, written and hands-on assessments 

• Maximum efficiency: Delivered on a Saturday to suit busy working professionals 
   

Course Programme 

1. Arrival and Induction 

• Welcome and introduction by experienced IPAF-certified trainers 

• Pre-course multiple-choice quiz to assess knowledge levels 

2. Classroom Tutorials 

• Health and Safety at Work Act 

• Working at Height Regulations 

• Accident prevention and PPE use 

• IPAF Operator Safety Guide (take-home resource) 

3. Theory Assessment 

• Open-book written assessment 

• Multiple-choice format 
   

4. Practical Training 

• Pre-use inspection checks 

• Safety harness usage and descent procedures 

• Safe operation of both 3A and 3B machines 

• Hazard identification and risk minimisation 

5. Practical Assessment 

• In-application test following IPAF standards 

• Must be passed to receive certification 

Certification 

On successful completion of the course, delegates will receive: 

• IPAF 3A and 3B Certificate of Training 

• Digital PAL Card via the IPAF ePAL App (includes digital logbook and safety info) 

• Optional Physical PAL Card + Certificate: £15 + VAT (must be requested before course start) 

Why Take This Course? 

• Legally required for operating MEWPs on most UK sites 

• Reduces risk of injury and equipment damage 

• Provides employers and contractors with proof of operator competency 

• Enhances career prospects in construction and related industries 

• Valid for 5 years 

Related IPAF Courses 

Nationwide Platforms is Europe’s largest provider of IPAF training. Explore other popular courses: 
 

• IPAF 3A, 3B and 1B Operator Course (Including Static Booms) 

• IPAF MEWPs for Managers Course 

Course Objectives

The course is designed to train operators to: 

• Safely prepare and operate a range of MEWPs 

• Conduct pre-use safety inspections 

• Use MEWPs in compliance with UK Health & Safety regulations 

• Operate equipment while elevated (where manufacturer permits) 

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for: 

• Site operatives using scissor or boom lifts 

• Contractors in construction, facilities, or industrial sectors 

• First-time MEWP users or those renewing expired PAL Cards 

• Anyone who needs IPAF certification for safe, legal access platform use 

 

Candidate Requirements 

To take this course, candidates must: 

• Be physically fit, in good health, and free from hearing or vision impairments 

• Have a level of literacy that enables them to understand safety notices and manuals 

• Bring the following PPE: 

• Hard hat with chin strap 

• Safety harness and adjustable lanyard 

• Hi-vis vest 

• Safety footwear 

• Eye protection