Our industry leading IPAF courses provide delegates with the knowledge and practical skills to safely operate powered access equipment.
This IPAF Operator course with practical training session and assessment covers two powered access products - Mobile Vertical (3a) + Mobile Boom (3b).
The theory portion of this course can be undertaken prior to attending a HSS Training centre for the practical instruction and assessment. Please click here for more information.
IPAF ePAL
HSS has been awarded an EcoVadis Gold rating, reaffirming our group commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.
HSS Training are working hard to protect the environment whilst providing quality services to our customers. HSS are aware that the unnecessary printing of paper certificates may negatively impact your environmental aspirations and as well as our own.
For this reason all IPAF certifications are now digital as standard through IPAF Digital PAL Card Licence Application (ePAL); the cost of which is included within your course fee.
However, if it is imperative that you have a paper certificate this can be arranged at the additional cost of £40+VAT in order to cover the necessary costs for processing, printing and postage.
*If you are booking a dedicated course and would like the duration extended to 2 or 3 days (due to machine complexity) please call us for a quote on 0345 605 0006.
Theory
- Introduction and pre-course theory test
- MEWP regulations and guidance
- Machine types and use
- Structural parts
- Familiarisation and pre-use inspection
- Safe operating methods and hazards
- Written theory test
Practical
- Practical training
- Practical assessment
Note:
You must have a good understanding of spoken and written English. Please contact us if you have any concerns in this area on 0345 605 0006.
Those who operate, supervise or manage the use of powered access equipment including scissor lifts (3a) and self-propelled boom lifts (3b).
Those who need to use only one category of powered access equipment should attend the Single Category course - Mobile Vertical (3a) / Mobile Boom (3b).
As a company that is committed to providing high quality
services to all our clients, we will always aim to make reasonable adjustments
ensuring all individuals receive the required help they need.
Click here to learn more
Delegates successfully completing the course will receive an IPAF Certificate and Powered Access Licence (PAL) Card valid for 5 years.
IPAF ePAL
HSS has been awarded an EcoVadis Gold rating, reaffirming our group commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.
HSS Training are working hard to protect the environment whilst providing quality services to our customers. HSS are aware that the unnecessary printing of paper certificates may negatively impact your environmental aspirations and as well as our own.
For this reason all IPAF certifications are now digital as standard through IPAF Digital PAL Card Licence Application (ePAL); the cost of which is included within your course fee.
However, if it is imperative that you have a paper certificate this can be arranged at the additional cost of £40+VAT in order to cover the necessary costs for processing, printing and postage.
IPAF Dual (3A) + (3B) Operator Course FAQs
About IPAF
Q1. My site has told me I need IPAF Training. What does this mean?
IPAF stands for the International Powered Access Federation. It sets the recognised standard for the safe operation of Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs), such as scissor lifts (3a) and boom lifts (3b). If your site or employer requires IPAF training, it means you'll be operating mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and need the correct IPAF qualification to use this equipment safely and legally.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q2. Is this course accredited?
Yes, this course is fully accredited by IPAF, and HSS Training is an approved IPAF training provider.
_________________________________________________________________________________
About the Course
Q3. What does the IPAF Dual Operator course cover?
It covers the safe operation and practical use of both Mobile Vertical (scissor lifts) and Mobile Boom (cherry pickers) Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs).
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q4. What’s the difference between 3a and 3b machines?
Each machine type is given an IPAF category based on whether it’s static or mobile and how it moves.
- The 3A category covers mobile vertical lifts (scissor lifts), which move straight up and down.
- The 3B category covers mobile boom lifts (cherry pickers), which can extend both up and out for greater reach.
To learn more about the machine categories, you can visit the IPAF machine categories page.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q5. How long does the course take to complete?
The IPAF Dual course is one day, combining classroom theory and supervised practical assessments for both machine types.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Who Should Attend
Q6. Who is this course for?
Site operatives, maintenance staff, construction workers, facilities teams or contractors across industrial, commercial, and maintenance sectors.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q7. Are there any entry requirements?
Delegates must be at least 16 years old, in good physical health and fitness with no serious issues related to vision, hearing, heart conditions or a severe fear of heights/vertigo. Delegates must also have a good understanding of spoken and written English. For additional support, please see question 13.
_________________________________________________________________________________
How the Training Works
Q8. What should I bring on the day?
PPE: safety boots, hi-vis vest/jacket, hard-hat, protective gloves, safety footwear, long-sleeve top and trousers (shorts are not permitted). A full-body harness and a fully adjustable restraint lanyard are also required; however, if you don’t have a suitable harness, you can also purchase a powered access harness kit ahead of your training. If you need help sourcing PPE or a harness, please call 0345 605 0006 or email training@hss.com.
Please also bring photo ID (passport, driving license or CSCS card) and your own lunch as this is not provided. Complimentary tea and coffee are available and your trainer can suggest nearby dining options if needed. All course materials are provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own notebook and pen.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q9. Do I need a harness for IPAF training?
A harness is recommended for 3B (Mobile Boom) lifts to prevent ejection from the platform. Basic harness use may be discussed during the course, but full training isn't included. To gain additional harness training, including correct fitting and use, book the IPAF Harness Awareness and User (HA/HU) Operator Add-On alongside your IPAF Dual course. Complete the Harness Awareness (HA) e-learning before your course, bring proof of your e-learning completion to your training and complete the Harness User (HU) practical assessment during your IPAF Dual training.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q10. Is there parking available at the training centre?
Most of our training venues offer free on-site parking, although spaces may be limited. You’ll receive full parking details, including What3Words navigation, in your joining instructions once your booking is confirmed. Alternatively, you can find parking availability and other venue details on our Training Centres information page
______________________________________________________________________________
Assessments & Certification
Q11. How is the course assessed?
You’ll complete a short theory test and practical assessments on both 3A and 3B machines under trainer supervision.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q12. What certification will I receive?
Successful delegates will receive a digital IPAF PAL Card via the ePAL app, valid for 5 years.
You can also upgrade to purchase a physical printed IPAF PAL Card and Certificate.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Delegate Support & Accessibility
Q13. What support is available if I have additional needs or require adjustments?
At HSS Training, we are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment. If you’re neurodivergent, have a disability, have a specific learning need, or English isn’t your first language, please refer to our reasonable adjustments guide.
For the IPAF operator courses only, theory test papers are available in 30+ languages, including Albanian, Bulgarian, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English (UK), English (US), Estonian, Finnish, French, Georgian, German, Greek, Hindi, Hungarian, Italian, Korean, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Slovenian, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Turkish, and Ukrainian.
You may be able to bring an impartial, approved translator, depending on the course and awarding body. Please let us know as early as possible on 0345 605 0006 so we can confirm what’s allowed, discuss any fees and ensure the right support is in place.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Still Have Questions?
If you need further support please contact us on 0345 605 0006, use our live chat or email training@hss.com.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Our industry leading IPAF courses provide delegates with the knowledge and practical skills to safely operate powered access equipment.
This IPAF Operator course with practical training session and assessment covers two powered access products - Mobile Vertical (3a) + Mobile Boom (3b).
The theory portion of this course can be undertaken prior to attending a HSS Training centre for the practical instruction and assessment. Please click here for more information.
IPAF ePAL
HSS has been awarded an EcoVadis Gold rating, reaffirming our group commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.
HSS Training are working hard to protect the environment whilst providing quality services to our customers. HSS are aware that the unnecessary printing of paper certificates may negatively impact your environmental aspirations and as well as our own.
For this reason all IPAF certifications are now digital as standard through IPAF Digital PAL Card Licence Application (ePAL); the cost of which is included within your course fee.
However, if it is imperative that you have a paper certificate this can be arranged at the additional cost of £40+VAT in order to cover the necessary costs for processing, printing and postage.
*If you are booking a dedicated course and would like the duration extended to 2 or 3 days (due to machine complexity) please call us for a quote on 0345 605 0006.
Theory
- Introduction and pre-course theory test
- MEWP regulations and guidance
- Machine types and use
- Structural parts
- Familiarisation and pre-use inspection
- Safe operating methods and hazards
- Written theory test
Practical
- Practical training
- Practical assessment
Note:
You must have a good understanding of spoken and written English. Please contact us if you have any concerns in this area on 0345 605 0006.
IPAF Dual (3A) + (3B) Operator Course FAQs
About IPAF
Q1. My site has told me I need IPAF Training. What does this mean?
IPAF stands for the International Powered Access Federation. It sets the recognised standard for the safe operation of Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs), such as scissor lifts (3a) and boom lifts (3b). If your site or employer requires IPAF training, it means you'll be operating mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and need the correct IPAF qualification to use this equipment safely and legally.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q2. Is this course accredited?
Yes, this course is fully accredited by IPAF, and HSS Training is an approved IPAF training provider.
_________________________________________________________________________________
About the Course
Q3. What does the IPAF Dual Operator course cover?
It covers the safe operation and practical use of both Mobile Vertical (scissor lifts) and Mobile Boom (cherry pickers) Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs).
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q4. What’s the difference between 3a and 3b machines?
Each machine type is given an IPAF category based on whether it’s static or mobile and how it moves.
- The 3A category covers mobile vertical lifts (scissor lifts), which move straight up and down.
- The 3B category covers mobile boom lifts (cherry pickers), which can extend both up and out for greater reach.
To learn more about the machine categories, you can visit the IPAF machine categories page.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q5. How long does the course take to complete?
The IPAF Dual course is one day, combining classroom theory and supervised practical assessments for both machine types.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Who Should Attend
Q6. Who is this course for?
Site operatives, maintenance staff, construction workers, facilities teams or contractors across industrial, commercial, and maintenance sectors.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q7. Are there any entry requirements?
Delegates must be at least 16 years old, in good physical health and fitness with no serious issues related to vision, hearing, heart conditions or a severe fear of heights/vertigo. Delegates must also have a good understanding of spoken and written English. For additional support, please see question 13.
_________________________________________________________________________________
How the Training Works
Q8. What should I bring on the day?
PPE: safety boots, hi-vis vest/jacket, hard-hat, protective gloves, safety footwear, long-sleeve top and trousers (shorts are not permitted). A full-body harness and a fully adjustable restraint lanyard are also required; however, if you don’t have a suitable harness, you can also purchase a powered access harness kit ahead of your training. If you need help sourcing PPE or a harness, please call 0345 605 0006 or email training@hss.com.
Please also bring photo ID (passport, driving license or CSCS card) and your own lunch as this is not provided. Complimentary tea and coffee are available and your trainer can suggest nearby dining options if needed. All course materials are provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own notebook and pen.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q9. Do I need a harness for IPAF training?
A harness is recommended for 3B (Mobile Boom) lifts to prevent ejection from the platform. Basic harness use may be discussed during the course, but full training isn't included. To gain additional harness training, including correct fitting and use, book the IPAF Harness Awareness and User (HA/HU) Operator Add-On alongside your IPAF Dual course. Complete the Harness Awareness (HA) e-learning before your course, bring proof of your e-learning completion to your training and complete the Harness User (HU) practical assessment during your IPAF Dual training.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q10. Is there parking available at the training centre?
Most of our training venues offer free on-site parking, although spaces may be limited. You’ll receive full parking details, including What3Words navigation, in your joining instructions once your booking is confirmed. Alternatively, you can find parking availability and other venue details on our Training Centres information page
______________________________________________________________________________
Assessments & Certification
Q11. How is the course assessed?
You’ll complete a short theory test and practical assessments on both 3A and 3B machines under trainer supervision.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q12. What certification will I receive?
Successful delegates will receive a digital IPAF PAL Card via the ePAL app, valid for 5 years.
You can also upgrade to purchase a physical printed IPAF PAL Card and Certificate.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Delegate Support & Accessibility
Q13. What support is available if I have additional needs or require adjustments?
At HSS Training, we are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment. If you’re neurodivergent, have a disability, have a specific learning need, or English isn’t your first language, please refer to our reasonable adjustments guide.
For the IPAF operator courses only, theory test papers are available in 30+ languages, including Albanian, Bulgarian, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English (UK), English (US), Estonian, Finnish, French, Georgian, German, Greek, Hindi, Hungarian, Italian, Korean, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Slovenian, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Turkish, and Ukrainian.
You may be able to bring an impartial, approved translator, depending on the course and awarding body. Please let us know as early as possible on 0345 605 0006 so we can confirm what’s allowed, discuss any fees and ensure the right support is in place.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Still Have Questions?
If you need further support please contact us on 0345 605 0006, use our live chat or email training@hss.com.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Those who operate, supervise or manage the use of powered access equipment including scissor lifts (3a) and self-propelled boom lifts (3b).
Those who need to use only one category of powered access equipment should attend the Single Category course - Mobile Vertical (3a) / Mobile Boom (3b).
As a company that is committed to providing high quality
services to all our clients, we will always aim to make reasonable adjustments
ensuring all individuals receive the required help they need.
Click here to learn more
Delegates successfully completing the course will receive an IPAF Certificate and Powered Access Licence (PAL) Card valid for 5 years.
IPAF ePAL
HSS has been awarded an EcoVadis Gold rating, reaffirming our group commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.
HSS Training are working hard to protect the environment whilst providing quality services to our customers. HSS are aware that the unnecessary printing of paper certificates may negatively impact your environmental aspirations and as well as our own.
For this reason all IPAF certifications are now digital as standard through IPAF Digital PAL Card Licence Application (ePAL); the cost of which is included within your course fee.
However, if it is imperative that you have a paper certificate this can be arranged at the additional cost of £40+VAT in order to cover the necessary costs for processing, printing and postage.
Want to train at your premises?
This course can be delivered as a dedicated course at your premises / site.
Find out More