IPAF Releases New MEWP Operator Training Course

The new IPAF MEWP Operator Training Course is designed to equip operators with the essential skills and knowledge to operate MEWPs safely and effectively. The course remains globally recognised, with successful candidates earning the IPAF Powered Access Licence (PAL) Card, which is valid for up to five years. 

This course is ideal for individuals who need to operate a MEWP in one or more designated machine categories, as well as supervisors or rescuers of MEWP operators. No prior MEWP experience is necessary, making it suitable for beginners and a wide range of candidates. 

Course Content and Objectives 

The course provides essential knowledge and practical skills to:

• Application of relevant health and safety regulations
• Recognise accident prevention and control measures
• Identify personal protection requirements
• Know how to reference the MEWP Operating Manual
• Safely drive, manoeuvre, and position a MEWP to perform required tasks

Participants complete a structured, modular programme that includes:

Theory Modules:

• Introduction to course objectives, facilities, health and fitness requirements, and the ePAL app
• Overview of legislation requiring operator training
• Identification and description of MEWP types and components
• Pre-use inspections, safety checks, and emergency procedures

The new course also features the latest animation and graphics, depicting more detailed real-life scenarios and worksites. A wider range of commonly used machines is showcased, creating a more realistic and engaging experience for candidates.

Configurable Modules:

Candidates select detailed, category-specific modules tailored to the MEWP categories they wish to operate (e.g., 1A, 1B, 3A, 3B), covering hazard identification, machine setup, and typical applications.

Safe Operations Module:

Task planning, machine selection, PPE checks, harness use, rescue planning, and exercises focusing on six key risk areas—falls, electrocution, overturns, entrapment, collisions, and machine failure.

Practical Training:

Hands-on experience includes:

• Conducting site risk assessments
• Performing pre-use checks and inspections
• Operating, manoeuvring, and positioning MEWPs safely
• Completing real-world tasks using MEWPs

Course Duration and Qualification 

The course duration varies depending on the candidate’s experience and machine categories selected:

• Typical completion time: 1–3 days 
• Common combinations (e.g., 3A & 3B) may be completed in a single day 
• eLearning modules: Approximately 3 hours, allowing for flexible, self-paced learning

Successful candidates receive a digital PAL Card via the IPAF ePAL app. This widely recognised qualification is often required by employers in construction and other industries and is valid for up to five years.

Paul Roddis, IPAF’s Training Manager who oversaw the development of the new course, said: "This new Operator Theory training is a complete game changer, representing the culmination of three years of collaboration with IPAF Members from around the globe. It’s the first course of its kind to seamlessly integrate behavioural and learning science into the training itself.

“The course is visually stunning and highly interactive, whether delivered via eLearning or in a classroom setting. It engages learners in diverse ways as the training progresses, creating a unique and effective learning experience. Candidates have never experienced training like this before, and I’m confident it will not only be enjoyable but also go further than ever to reduce the risk of accidents and improve the efficiency of MEWP operation." 

The development process for this course involved extensive research and collaboration with global experts, including IPAF’s international member committees and a dedicated working group. After years of work, the course content has been finalised and rigorously tested to ensure its effectiveness. 

Peter Douglas, IPAF CEO & MD, added: "We are delighted to announce the release of the new IPAF MEWP Operator Training Course. A lot of time, work, and dedication has gone into transforming and improving the course, and we’re confident it will better equip operators around the world with the essential skills and knowledge they need to work safely and effectively. IPAF remains committed to continuously improving and tailoring the wide variety of training courses we offer. 

“All eligible IPAF Approved Training Centres have been informed, and I encourage instructors to reach out if they have any questions. Our IPAF team is more than happy to assist!" 

For more details about the new IPAF MEWP Operator Training Course, visit ipaf.org/mewp-operator-training or contact your nearest IPAF Training Centre.