Theory

The theory section covers:

• Introduction and pre-course theory test

• MEWP regulations and guidance

• Machine types and use

• Structural  parts

• Familiarisation and pre-use inspection

• Safe operating methods and hazards

• Written theory test

Practical

The practial section covers:

• Practical training

• Practical assessment

Oindustry leading IPAF courses provide delegates with the knowledge and practical skills to safely operate powered access equipment.

This IPAF Operator course with practical training session and assessment covers two powered access products - Mobile Vertical (3a) + Mobile Boom (3b).

IPAF ePAL

HSS has been awarded an EcoVadis Gold rating, reaffirming our group commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.

HSS Training are working hard to protect the environment whilst providing quality services to our customers. HSS are aware that the unnecessary printing of paper certificates may negatively impact your environmental aspirations and as well as our own. 

For this reason all IPAF certifications are now digital as standard through IPAF Digital PAL Card Licence Application (ePAL); the cost of which is included within your course fee.

However, if it is imperative that you have a paper certificate this can be arranged at the additional cost of £40+VAT in order to cover the necessary costs for processing, printing and postage.

Delegates successfully completing the course will receive an IPAF Certificate and Powered Access Licene (PAL) Card valid for 5 years.

IPAF ePAL

Those who operate, supervise or manage the use of powered access equipment including scissor lifts (3a) and self-propelled boom lifts (3b).

Those who need to use only one category of powered access equipment should attend the Single Category course - Mobile Vertical (3a) / Mobile Boom (3b).

Additional Support:

As a company that is committed to providing high quality services to all our clients, we will always aim to make reasonable adjustments ensuring all individuals receive the required help they need.
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About IPAF 

Q1. My site has told me I need IPAF Training. What does this mean? 

IPAF stands for the International Powered Access Federation. It sets the recognised standard for the safe operation of Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs), such as scissor lifts (3a) and boom lifts (3b). If your site or employer requires IPAF training, it means you'll be operating mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and need the correct IPAF qualification to use this equipment safely and legally.

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Q2. Is this course accredited?

 Yes, this course is fully accredited by IPAF, and HSS Training is an approved IPAF training provider.

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About the Course 

Q3. What does the IPAF Dual Operator course cover?

It covers the safe operation and practical use of both Mobile Vertical (scissor lifts) and Mobile Boom (cherry pickers) Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs).

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Q4. What’s the difference between 3a and 3b machines?

Each machine type is given an IPAF category based on whether it’s static or mobile and how it moves.

• The 3A category covers mobile vertical lifts (scissor lifts), which move straight up and down.

• The 3B category covers mobile boom lifts (cherry pickers), which can extend both up and out for greater reach.

To learn more about the machine categories, you can visit the IPAF machine categories page.

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Q5. How long does the course take to complete?

The IPAF Dual course is one day, combining classroom theory and supervised practical assessments for both machine types.

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Who Should Attend 

Q6. Who is this course for? 

Site operatives, maintenance staff, construction workers, facilities teams or contractors across industrial, commercial, and maintenance sectors.

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Q7. Are there any entry requirements?

Delegates must be at least 16 years old, in good physical health and fitness with no serious issues related to vision, hearing, heart conditions or a severe fear of heights/vertigo. Delegates must also have a good understanding of spoken and written English. For additional support, please see question 13.

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How the Training Works 

Q8. What should I bring on the day? 

PPE: safety boots, hi-vis vest/jacket, hard-hat, protective gloves, safety footwear, long-sleeve top and trousers (shorts are not permitted). A full-body harness and a fully adjustable restraint lanyard are also required; however, if you don’t have a suitable harness, you can also purchase a powered access harness kit ahead of your training. If you need help purchasing PPE or a harness, please call 0345 605 0006 or email training@hss.com.

Please also bring photo ID (passport, driving license or CSCS card) and your own lunch as this is not provided. Complimentary tea and coffee are available and your trainer can suggest nearby dining options if needed. All course materials are provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own notebook and pen.

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Q9. Do I need a harness for IPAF training? 

A harness is recommended for 3B (Mobile Boom) lifts to prevent ejection from the platform. Basic harness use may be discussed during the course, but full training isn't included. To gain additional harness training, including correct fitting and use, book the IPAF Harness Awareness and User (HA/HU) Operator Add-On alongside your IPAF Dual course. Complete the Harness Awareness (HA) e-learning before your course, bring proof of your e-learning completion to your training and complete the Harness User (HU) practical assessment during your IPAF Dual training.

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Q10. Is there parking available at the training centre? 

Most of our training venues offer free on-site parking, although spaces may be limited. You’ll receive full parking details, including What3Words navigation, in your joining instructions once your booking is confirmed. Alternatively, you can find parking availability and other venue details on our Training Centres information page

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Assessments & Certification 

Q11. How is the course assessed? 

You’ll complete a short theory test and practical assessments on both 3A and 3B machines under trainer supervision.

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Q12. What certification will I receive? 

Successful delegates will receive a digital IPAF PAL Card via the ePAL app, valid for 5 years. 

You can also upgrade to purchase a physical printed IPAF PAL Card and Certificate. 

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Delegate Support & Accessibility 

Q13. What support is available if I have additional needs or require adjustments? 

At HSS Training, we are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment. If you’re neurodivergent, have a disability, have a specific learning need, or English isn’t your first language, please refer to our reasonable adjustments guide.

For the IPAF operator courses only, theory test papers are available in 30+ languages, including Albanian, Bulgarian, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English (UK), English (US), Estonian, Finnish, French, Georgian, German, Greek, Hindi, Hungarian, Italian, Korean, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Slovenian, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Turkish, and Ukrainian.

You may be able to bring an impartial, approved translator, depending on the course and awarding body. Please let us know as early as possible on 0345 605 0006 so we can confirm what’s allowed, discuss any fees and ensure the right support is in place.

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Still Have Questions?

If you need further support please contact us on 0345 605 0006, use our live chat or email training@hss.com.

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