Unit 3, Coomber Way, Croydon CR0 4TQ Mon–Fri 7:30–17:30
IPAF Accredited Training Centre
PAL+ Card Issued Same Day
Small Groups — Max 6 Delegates
Internationally Recognised
On-Site Training Available
Home Training IPAF Powered Access
IPAF Accredited Course

IPAF
Powered
Access

The international standard for MEWP operators. Our IPAF training qualifies you to safely operate scissor lifts, cherry pickers and boom lifts — with your PAL+ card issued the same day you pass.

Full Day Course
Theory & Practical
PAL+ Card Same Day
Internationally Recognised
Multiple MEWP Categories

Book Your Place

IPAF Powered Access — Full Day

£225
+VAT per delegate
Duration: 1 Full Day
Location: Croydon CR0 4TQ / On-site
Card: IPAF PAL+ Card
Validity: 5 Years
Max Group: 6 Delegates
Recognition: Worldwide
66
Countries Recognise IPAF
1M+
PAL+ Card Holders Worldwide
5yr
Card Validity
1 Day
To Qualification
MEWP Categories

Which Category Do You Need?

IPAF training is divided into categories based on the type of MEWP you'll be operating. Our instructors will help you select the right category or combination for your job requirements.

3a
MEWP Category

Scissor Lifts

Self-propelled vertical movement only. Covers scissor lifts and similar MEWPs that move up and down without booming or slewing.

1b
MEWP Category

Vehicle-Mounted

Vehicle-mounted boom-type MEWPs including truck-mounted cherry pickers and lorry-mounted access platforms used in highways and utilities work.

Course Content

What the Course Covers

Our IPAF course follows the internationally standardised IPAF curriculum, combining classroom theory with practical machine operation assessed by our accredited instructor.

Module 01

Legislation & Industry Standards

PUWER, LOLER, Work at Height Regulations and relevant IPAF / BS EN standards governing MEWP operation in the UK.

Module 02

MEWP Types & Applications

Classification of MEWPs, comparing different platform types and selecting the right machine for the task and environment.

Module 03

Pre-Use Inspection

Detailed walk-round inspection procedures, identifying defects, understanding machine controls, safety systems and data plates.

Module 04

Site Risk Assessment

Ground conditions, overhead hazards, exclusion zones, wind loading, slope gradients, outrigger deployment and proximity to live services.

Module 05

Practical Operation

Hands-on operation of the relevant MEWP category under instructor supervision, including set-up, travel, elevation and safe shutdown.

Module 06

Theory Test & Practical Assessment

Multiple-choice theory assessment followed by practical evaluation. PAL+ card and certificate issued on successful completion, same day.

What You'll Be Qualified to Do

Legally operate MEWPs in the relevant category
Conduct thorough pre-use safety inspections
Assess site conditions and identify risks
Set up MEWPs correctly including outriggers
Operate MEWPs safely in various environments
Comply with PUWER, LOLER and Work at Height Regulations
Hold an internationally recognised PAL+ card
Demonstrate competence to employers and clients worldwide
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to operate a MEWP?
While there is no strict legal requirement to hold a formal licence, the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and PUWER require that MEWP operators are "trained and competent." An IPAF PAL+ card is the industry-recognised standard that demonstrates this competence and is required by most principal contractors and site managers.
What's the difference between category 3a and 3b?
Category 3a covers scissor lifts — MEWPs that move vertically only (up and down). Category 3b covers boom-type MEWPs such as cherry pickers and articulated booms that can extend and slew. If you need to operate both types, you can take a combined 3a+3b course in one day. Ask us about this option when booking.
Is the IPAF PAL+ card recognised internationally?
Yes. The IPAF PAL+ card is recognised in over 66 countries worldwide. It is the most widely accepted proof of MEWP competence both in the UK and internationally, making it particularly valuable for operatives working on international projects or for multi-national clients.
Can the training be done at our site with our machines?
Yes — on-site IPAF training is available. Our accredited instructor will come to your premises. You'll need suitable machines available for the practical assessment and a space for the classroom theory session. This is popular for companies with their own powered access fleet. Contact us for pricing.
When does my PAL+ card expire?
Your IPAF PAL+ card is valid for 5 years from the date of issue. We recommend booking a refresher course before it expires to avoid any gaps in certification. Contact us and we'll check your existing card and advise on renewal dates.

Get Your IPAF PAL+ Card

Book your place on our next available IPAF course or enquire about on-site group training for your team.

0208 665 1181
Book a Course Place