IPAF: PAV, 1A, 1B, 3A or 3B MEWP Operator Training

The 1-day IPAF operator course is designed for anyone who uses the different types of Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) below.

• Static Vertical (1A) – Static verticals are any vertical personnel platform that remains static.
• Static Boom (1B) – Static booms are any tracked access / spider boom, trailers , van or truck-mounted platforms; these machines may have outriggers attached to them.
• Mobile Vertical (3A) – Mobile verticals are any mobile electric or diesel scissor lifts or vertical mobile personnel platforms.
• Mobile Boom (3B) – Mobile boom machines are any articulating, telescopic, vertical mast or self-propelled booms. They can all be known as cherry pickers.
• Push Around Vehicle (PAV) – A PAV is any push around vehicle. A PAV course at an IPAF Training Centre is a half-day course. If you have a valid licence with Static Vertical (1a) or Mobile Vertical (3a), you will only require familiarisation on the machine, which should be recorded in your IPAF log book. See IPAF technical guidance F1 on familiarisation.

*Duration of the course is variable depending on the type of course, trainee experience, machine complexity, and the number of machine categories taken*

Get trained

The IPAF operator course instructs a candidate to prepare and safely operate various types of MEWPs, also referred to as cherry pickers, aerial lifts or scissor lifts. Categories include Static Vertical (1a), Static Boom (1b), Mobile Vertical (3a), Mobile Boom (3b), Specialist Machines (SPECIAL), Push Around Vehicle (PAV), Insulated Aerial Device (IAD).

IPAF’s MEWP Operator Training is certified by TÜV as conforming to the international standard ISO 18878 Mobile elevating work platforms – Operator (driver) training.

The training requires candidates to undertake a written test and practical assessment. On successful completion, delegates will be able to access their certification via the ePAL app. Should a physical PAL card and/or certificate be required, this must be requested at time of booking and will be charged at an extra cost.  The IPAF – International Powered Access Federation licence is internationally accepted and is valid for 5 years.

Entry requirements: Delegates must have a good understanding of English at operative level and must be physically fit.  The course content is suited to all ability levels.

What’s covered?

In this classroom / e-Learning course, you will learn about a range of subjects including:

• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• Different types of MEWPS
• Limitations of MEWPS
• Controls, Safety Devices and Warning Alarms
• Routine Inspection and Servicing Requirements
• Preparation for Work on a MEWP
• Ground and Site Conditions
• Safe Operating Techniques
• Emergency Lowering Procedures
• Manufacturers Instruction Manuals
• Fall Arrest/Restraint Equipment
• Multiple Choice Test Paper (this must be passed to be able to carry out the practical side of the course)
• Practical Operating Test

On successfully completing this course, you’ll receive an IPAF certificate. All IPAF certification is issued electronically via ePAL.  The International Powered Access Federation licence is recognised internationally.

Delegates will be required to download the IPAF ePAL app onto their device to access any certification they hold with IPAF prior to the training taking place.

Should a physical PAL card and/or certificate be required, this must be requested at time of booking and will be charged at an additional cost.

Is this the right course for me?

This IPAF operator course is designed for anyone who uses the different types of Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP)

At the end of the course, you will have an understanding of:

• Fully aware of the relevant Health and Safety regulations
• Fully aware of the needs regarding personal protection
• Carry out a daily check on the MEWP
• Able to manoeuvre the machine as required
• Fully aware of accident prevention and control
• Able to drive the MEWP safely.
• Able to correctly position and carry out the required tasks in a correct and proper manner

Course details

• Aimed at: This IPAF operator course is designed for anyone who uses the different types of Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP)
• Duration: Mainly 1 day (but can vary from half a day to three days, dependent on the candidate’s experience, theory type chosen (eLearning or classroom)
• PPE Required: Safety Helmet with chin strap, Safety Boots or Shoes, Hi-Vis Vest and Full body harness and adjustable restraint lanyard.
• Maximum class size: 8
• Qualification length: 5 years
• e-Learning available: Yes
• On-site training available

Assessment details

The qualification is assessed through theory assessment, which the learner must successfully pass to complete the practical side of the course. Once both completed the delegate will be awarded the IPAF operator qualification.