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About the IPAF 3A Operator Training Course [London] 

The IPAF 3A Operator Training Course in London is designed to train delegates to safely prepare and operate Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) in the 3A category. This includes scissor lifts and mobile vertical personnel platforms used widely across construction, maintenance, and industrial sectors. 

Delivered by IPAF-accredited instructors at our London training centres, this one-day course combines classroom learning, theory assessment, and hands-on practical training to ensure delegates understand both the legal requirements and safe operational practices for MEWPs. 

On successful completion, candidates will receive an internationally recognised IPAF PAL (Powered Access Licence) Card, proving their competence to operate MEWPs safely and legally on-site. 

What’s Covered on the IPAF 3A Operator Training Course [London] 

This course provides a complete introduction to the safe use of scissor lifts and other MEWPs in the 3A category. Training is split into both theory and practical elements to give delegates the knowledge and confidence to operate safely. 

 

You’ll cover the following areas: 

• Health & Safety responsibilities under UK legislation and industry standards 

• Working at Height Regulations and accident prevention strategies 

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – correct selection and use 

• Pre-use inspections and safety checks to ensure equipment is fit for operation 

• Safe operating procedures for scissor lifts and vertical personnel platforms 

• Emergency descent methods - manual and auxiliary systems 

• Hazard identification and risk awareness on-site 

• Practical driving and manoeuvring skills for MEWPs, including working while elevated (manufacturer permitting) 

• Shut down and securing procedures at the end of use 
   

This combination of classroom learning, guided demonstrations, and hands-on practice ensures that delegates leave the course ready to operate scissor lifts safely, effectively, and in line with IPAF standards. 

The machine categories included are: 

 

Mobile Scissor Lifts (3a): Scissor lifts, mobile vertical personnel platforms 

 

Upon successful completion of this course delegates will be issued with a powered access license smart card also known as a IPAF PAL (Powered Access License) card. 

The IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) PAL card is accepted and recognized as proof of MEWP operator training throughout the world. 

 

Course Objectives 

To instruct an operator to prepare and operate various types of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs). This includes any scissor lifts and personnel lifts that do not have outriggers so that you can drive the machine while elevated (manufacturer specification permitting). 

Who Should Take the IPAF 3A Operator Training Course [London] 

This course is designed for anyone who needs to operate scissor lifts or mobile vertical platforms (MEWPs in category 3A) as part of their job. It is suitable for both first-time operators and those looking to refresh or renew their licence  

You should take this course if you are: 

• A construction worker or site operative using scissor lifts at height 

• A maintenance or facilities technician requiring access to elevated work areas 

• A warehouse or logistics worker using vertical personnel platforms 

• An installation or fit-out contractor working indoors or outdoors at height 

• An employee whose role requires IPAF certification to meet legal and site safety standards 
   

No prior experience is required, but delegates must be physically fit, in good health, and able to understand written and spoken English to complete the theory and practical assessments. 

Teaching Method

The IPAF 3A Operator Training Course is taught through a mix of classroom learning, trainer demonstrations, and hands-on practice. 

 

• In the classroom, delegates cover health and safety laws, working at height regulations, and safe use of MEWPs. 

• During demonstrations, trainers show how to carry out pre-use checks, operate the machine safely, and use emergency lowering systems. 

• In the practical session, delegates get the chance to operate a scissor lift under supervision, putting the theory into practice. 

• The course ends with a written test and a practical assessment to confirm competence. 
   

This combination makes sure delegates leave with both the knowledge and skills to safely use 3A MEWPs. 

Duration 

1 full day. 

Course Programme & Assessment 

The IPAF Operator Training Course is based on four sections: 

• Classroom tutorials 

• Theory assessment 

• Practical training 

• Practical assessment 

Arrival 

On arrival at the training centre candidates will be welcomed by one of our experienced trainers who will carry out a course induction and be available to answer any questions attendees may have. 

 

Before training begins candidates will be given a practice assessment paper consisting of multiple-choice questions to check current levels of understanding, allowing the trainer to focus the course on specific areas that will be beneficial to the candidate. 

Classroom Tutorials 

The classroom tutorials will cover best practice and industry guidance on subjects including: 

• Health & Safety regulations and legislation 

• Working at Height Regulations 

• Accident control and prevention 

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

 

During the theory section of the course, candidates will have the opportunity to take notes and discuss topics that may arise during the training in more detail. They will also be presented with an operator safety guide which can be used as a reference tool when back in the workplace. 

Following the tutorials there will be an open-book theory assessment on the topics that have been covered. 

Practical Training 

Upon successful completion of the theory assessment candidates will progress to the practical element of the training. 

This will provide candidates with the expertise to: 

• Carry out a pre-use inspection check on a machine to ensure it is safe to use 
• Learn how to correctly wear a safety harness: Auxiliary and manual descent procedures 
• Operate a MEWP safely and effectively, and manoeuvre the machine as required 

Practical Assessment 

At the end of the practical training session, candidates are assessed in accordance with the IPAF practical test standards. 

Certification 

Successful candidates will receive the 3A IPAF qualification, and an IPAF Certificate of Training for these. These will both be accessible via the IPAF ePAL app, available on Android and iOS smartphones, which also includes a logbook and safety information. If a physical PAL card and certificate are required these must be arranged with the training department prior to the course start date, at an additional charge of £15 plus VAT. 

Related Courses 

As Europe’s largest provider of IPAF training we have the knowledge, experience and expertise to help you work more safely and productively at height. We also offer IPAF courses such as  MEWPs for Managers and the IPAF 3a, 3b and 1b Operator course which as well as covering mobile vertical & mobile booms includes static booms. 

Course Objectives

Who Should Attend