FAQs

  • 5823: Do I need training on a small static vertical machine without drive, also known as a Push Around Vertical (PAV)?

    Yes, training on a PAV is a direct legal requirement, and there is a half-day course for this. 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, or through the ePAL app.

    This is due to the PAV being a simpler version of a 1a which operates in the same way as a 3a but without the ability to drive.

    This principle cannot be applied to any other categories due to the operational methods and risks differing significantly between the categories. For example, if an operator is trained on a 1b only, this MEWP cannot be driven elevated where a 3b can, and the operator would not have been trained on that skill. Similarly, if they are trained on a 3b only, they have not been trained on setting up a 1b effectively on spreader pads.

    See IPAF technical guidance F1 on familiarisation. 

  • 5839: Does a passenger in a MEWP require a licence before they can go in a MEWP?

    No, only the operator requires a licence. However, the passenger will be required to wear the correct PPE.

  • 5838: Does the operator course include harness training?

    The IPAF MEWP Operator Training course is specifically designed to train people to operate MEWPs however, as a part of the content the course includes a short section of basic harness training on these areas:

    - Before use: Pre-use checks of a harness and lanyard, checking for proof of Statutory Inspection
    - Harness wearing: How to put a harness on
    - Harness adjustment: Ensuring candidates have no slack in a correctly fitted harness
    - Lanyard adjustment: Adjusting for machine and candidate
    - Attachment to MEWP: Designated anchor point and karabiner locked
    - IPAF technical guidance H1 on harnesses

    Harness inspection is not covered in the IPAF MEWP Operator Training course.

    For any person that needs comprehensive harness training, IPAF offers awareness level harness training suitable for everyone, user level training for those that will use a harness in a MEWP, and inspector level training for those that will be required to conduct Statutory Inspections of PFPE for use in a MEWP. Click here to learn more

  • 7934: How do I get help with the ePAL app?

    If you need help with the ePAL app or digital licences in general, please raise a support ticket through ePAL under the ‘More’ section, at www.ipaf.org/support or email support@ipaf-pal.org.

  • 5855: Is it acceptable for someone to operate a MEWP from the ground controls with a passenger in the platform?

    This is NOT usually allowed as the operator will be unable to judge distances from objects whilst on the ground. However, under certain circumstances and in accordance with a thorough risk assessment, it might be justifiable. An example is that of a cameraman at an event in a position away from all aerial hazards, all possible safety measures having been taken such as briefing the passenger about the emergency lowering controls and having the operator close to hand at the chassis.

  • 5857: Is it necessary for a ground-based person (designated to help lower the MEWP in an emergency) to hold an IPAF PAL Card?

    It is preferable for any nominated MEWP ground rescue person to have undergone some form of formal training relevant to the task. However, all nominated MEWP ground rescue persons should, as a minimum, have been familiarised with the MEWP being used and the rescue procedures in place, in order that they are competent to lower the MEWP platform using the ground/emergency controls in the work situations to which they are exposed.

    Further information on rescue procedures can be found in the Best Practice Guidance for MEWPs on Avoiding Trapping/Crushing Injuries.

  • 5824: Can candidates who have never used a MEWP participate in the operator course?

    Yes, however, this may affect the length of the course and/or the candidates’ likelihood of passing.

  • 7915: Can I get my MEWPs for Managers, or Harness or CAP licence on the ePAL app?

    Yes, any issued IPAF licence and qualifications can be shown within ePAL. All newly issued licences will automatically be linked to your IPAF profile (if you have provided your IPAF ID at the time of training). Existing licences can be linked by entering your licence number from your certificate within ePAL.

  • 6740: Can I get the CSCS logo on my PAL Card?

    IPAF is able to offer the CSCS logo on the PAL Card operator licence in the UK, in line with a requirement from Build UK stipulating that access to construction sites should be restricted to holders of accredited licences or competency cards. 

    Operators of MEWPs who are members of any construction trade body that affords CSCS accreditation will not need a CSCS logo to be added to their PAL Card. MEWP delivery drivers, maintenance or MCWP installation engineers, on-site instructors or operators who do need even occasional access to UK Construction sites and who do not already hold another accreditation recognised under the CSCS partner scheme are advised to contact the training centre where their current PAL Card was issued.

    Candidates who are undergoing training or a refresher course with the goal of obtaining a new or updated PAL Card are likewise advised to enquire of their IPAF-accredited training centre as to how to obtain a PAL Card with the CSCS logo.

    In all cases operators will have to supply proof of having passed the CITB Health, Safety & Environmental touch screen test within the two years prior to application for the card.

  • 7917: Can I update my name that is shown on my licence in the ePAL app?

    To update your name you will need to contact the IPAF training centre that trained you. To find the training centre contact details, open the ePAL app and go to the ‘Training’ section.

  • 7916: Can I update my photo that is shown on my licence in the ePAL app?

    To update your photo you will need to contact the IPAF training centre that trained you. To find the training centre contact details, open the ePAL app and go to the ‘Training’ section.

  • 8105: Can I use ePAL on multiple devices?

    Yes, you can download ePAL and log in to your account on more than one device, for example, both your work and personal phones.

  • 5820: Can I use my PAL Card abroad?

    The PAL Card is increasingly recognised worldwide. However, the employer and usually also the self-employed have a duty to know and abide by the legislation of the country they are planning to work in. IPAF may be able to assist with a summary of the legislation for countries in which we operate (please contact the IPAF head office in the UK). Ultimately it will be down to the site manager or equivalent at the differing work sites in each country to decide whether they are willing to accept the training you have received. IPAF's increasing worldwide reputation means that the PAL Card’s acceptance is growing daily.

  • 9922: Can I use the emergency stop in the MEWP platform to isolate the controls while the platform is elevated?

    The practice of using the emergency stop to isolate controls may no longer be appropriate on some MEWPs. MEWP operators should be trained and familiarised, and they should follow the MEWP manufacturer’s operating instructions as to how this should be achieved, and if it is recommended.

  • 5818: Can IPAF training be done on site?

    Yes, provided that there are suitable facilities and equipment. Please discuss with your selected training centre.

  • 5846: Can you have a shock absorbing pack in a restraint lanyard?

    Yes – if it is adjustable and used correctly as a restraint device (adjusted to be as short as possible), the lanyard will not be able to gain sufficient force/momentum to deploy the shock absorbing pack, thereby acting as a restraint lanyard.

  • 7905: Do I have to have a digital licence?

    No, IPAF still offers a physical printed PAL Card and certificate. Please speak to your IPAF training centre when booking your training.

    You can link your IPAF issued licence and get a digital version if you choose to download ePAL in the future.

  • 5845: Do I have to wear a harness or life jacket when working over water in a MEWP?

    Working next to or over water must be assessed to identify whether the greatest risk of injury to the operator is from falling from the MEWP basket or drowning if the MEWP falls into the water.  The decision can then be made as to whether it is most appropriate to wear a harness to address the fall risk or whether a harness should not be worn due to the risk of drowning. Life jackets, not harnesses, should be worn where there is a risk of drowning.

  • 5849: Do I need to have a HGV licence to drive a truck/vehicle mounted MEWP?

    As a general rule a truck/vehicle mounted machine over the weight of 3.5 tonnes must only be driven by heavy goods vehicle licensed people.

  • 5821: Do trainees need a safety awareness course before going on an IPAF MEWP course?

    Safety awareness relevant to MEWPs is an integral part of the IPAF course and therefore previous safety awareness is not necessary for the operator, demonstrator and instructor courses.

    Some sites do however require a health and safety test prior to working on their site. See: http://www.cskills.org/supportbusiness/healthsafety/test/index.aspx