Powered Access & MEWP Training

Operate at height, certified to ISO 18878.

Compare IPAF operator, harness and manager courses from accredited training centres across the UK. Classroom, eLearning and on-site options — book the category you need and receive your PAL Card on completion.

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Internationally recognised PAL Card 5-year certificate validity Certified to ISO 18878 by TÜV Independent course comparison

What IPAF training covers

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) sets the standard for the safe and effective use of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) — cherry pickers, scissor lifts and boom lifts. IPAF training teaches operators to plan, set up and operate powered access equipment safely, and is recognised worldwide. On successful completion delegates receive an electronic PAL Card (ePAL) valid for five years. Envico is an independent booking agent: we list IPAF courses from accredited training providers so you can compare dates, locations and value in one place.

IPAF Operator (MEWP) courses

For anyone who will personally operate a MEWP. Choose the machine category — or a combined course — that matches the equipment you’ll use on site.

Operator

IPAF 3a (Mobile Scissor) Operator

For operators of mobile vertical platforms — commonly known as scissor lifts. The single-category course for 3a machines.

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IPAF 3b (Mobile Boom) Operator

For operators of mobile boom lifts — articulating or telescopic platforms. The single-category course for 3b machines.

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IPAF 3a & 3b (Mobile Scissor & Mobile Boom) Operator

The most common combined operator course — covers both mobile vertical (3a) and mobile boom (3b) platforms in one certification.

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IPAF 1b (Static Boom) Operator

Trains operators to prepare and safely use static boom MEWPs. Suitable for first-time applicants and PAL Card renewals.

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IPAF 1b, 3a & 3b (Static Boom, Mobile Scissor & Mobile Boom)

The full triple-category operator course — static boom plus both mobile categories — for those who need maximum machine coverage.

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IPAF Harness courses

Awareness, use and inspection of harnesses for working at height in a MEWP. Add these categories to an existing IPAF licence.

Harness · eLearning

IPAF Harness Awareness (Online)

Roughly 2–3 hours of eLearning for those who plan, manage or supervise harness use without personally wearing one.

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IPAF Harness Awareness & User

Covers selecting and correctly using a harness in any working-at-height application. For anyone who wears a harness in a MEWP.

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IPAF Harness Inspection

Enables delegates to inspect and sign off harnesses for use. Requires prior completion of the Harness User course.

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Harness Awareness, User & Inspection (Combined)

Awareness, use and inspection in a single combined course — use and sign off harnesses for any working-at-height application.

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IPAF for managers & supervisors

For those who plan, supervise or manage MEWP operations rather than operate the equipment themselves.

Manager · Online

IPAF MEWPs for Managers

Covers planning the job, risk assessment and selecting the right equipment. Available as eLearning; the MM category can be added to a valid PAL Card.

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Which IPAF course do I need?

If you operate the machine

Take an operator course for your machine category — 3a (mobile vertical/scissor), 3b (mobile boom), 1b (static boom), or a combined course. This gives you the PAL Card to operate that equipment.

If you wear a harness

Boom-type MEWPs require a harness. Take Harness Awareness & User, then Inspection if you need to check and sign off equipment — or the combined course to cover all three.

If you manage the work

MEWPs for Managers is for supervisors and planners. It isn’t an operating qualification, but it covers the legal and planning responsibilities for safe MEWP use.

IPAF training — frequently asked questions

How long is an IPAF certificate valid?
An IPAF PAL Card is valid for five years. Towards the end of that period you’ll need to complete a renewal course to keep your licence current.
What’s the difference between 3a and 3b?
Category 3a covers mobile vertical platforms (scissor lifts), while 3b covers mobile boom platforms (cherry pickers). Many operators take the combined 3a & 3b course to be certified on both in one go.
Do I need harness training as well as an operator course?
If you’ll be working in a boom-type MEWP (3b or 1b), a harness is required, so harness training is strongly recommended alongside your operator course. Start with Harness Awareness & User.
Can IPAF courses be done online?
The theory element of several courses — including Harness Awareness and MEWPs for Managers — is available as eLearning. Operator courses include a practical element that must be completed in person with the machine.
Is Envico an IPAF training provider?
No. Envico is an independent booking agent. We list IPAF courses delivered by accredited training centres so you can compare dates, locations and value, then book directly through us. Accreditation and certification are issued by the training provider and IPAF.

Related working-at-height training

Working at Height Training Equipment Safety Training

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