MEWP Operator Training
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).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 Bureau Veritas as conforming to the international standard ISO 18878 Mobile elevating work platforms – Operator (driver) training.
Find your nearest IPAF-approved Training Centre
IPAF Operator Categories (1a, 1b, 3a, 3b)
The duration of courses for training on machine categories 1a, 1b, 3a and 3b varies from half a day to two-days, dependent on the candidate's experience, theory type chosen (eLearning or classroom), and the number of machine categories the candidate is already qualified for. A PAL Card and certificate are issued to the candidate on successful completion of the course and assessment. The PAL Card is valid for five years (depending on previous training dates on the PAL Card).
Operator eLearning is available for all of these machine categories. Please contact an IPAF Training Centre to access your eLearning course.
IPAF Operator Renewal Training
Existing PAL Card holders can choose the shorter, Operator Renewal Course, or the PAL+ Advanced Operator Course to renew and upskill at the same time. Operators can take the IPAF MEWP Operator Renewal Training Course or the IPAF PAL+ Advanced Operator Training Course.
Read more about operator renewal training
Static Vertical (1a)
Static verticals are any vertical personnel platform that remains static.
Static Boom (1b, 1b+)
Static booms are any self-propelled boom, trailers/push around or vehicle-mounted platforms; these machines may have outriggers attached to them.
Mobile Vertical (3a, 3a+)
Mobile verticals are any mobile scissor lifts or vertical mobile personnel platforms.
Mobile Boom (3b, 3b+)
Mobile boom machines are any self-propelled booms
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.
A PAL Card and certificate will be issued on successful completion of this course.
Specialist Machines (SPECIAL)
Special refers to any specialist machines or equipment that are Type 2 (travelling with a raised platform is controlled from a point of control at the chassis), and any other MEWPs that require additional specific training outside the normal remit of the IPAF Operator course due to their unique, often bespoke, construction.
The duration of training will depend on operator experience and the machine type. A PAL Card and certificate will be issued on successful completion of this course.
To discuss which training you need for your machines, please contact training@ipaf.org.
To read more about other IPAF Training click here.
view the IPAF Category Stickers view IPAF Category poster
Duration of the course is variable depending on the type of course, trainee experience, machine complexity, and the number of machine categories taken. One day is a minimum of seven hours.