About Us
The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) promotes the safe and effective use of powered access worldwide. Set up in 1983, IPAF is a not-for-profit members’ organisation that represents the interests of manufacturers, distributors, users, rental and training companies. It serves as a forum for all active in the world of powered access. IPAF has played a key role in promoting many of the design, safety and testing procedures that are now established in the powered access industry.
Training
The IPAF training programme for platform operators is certified by TÜV as conforming to ISO 18878. More than 80,000 operators are trained each year through a worldwide network of over 400 training centres. Training in the US is managed by IPAF’s North American subsidiary, AWPT Inc. Training generally lasts one to two days and is a mixture of theory and practice.
PAL Card
Those who successfully complete IPAF training are awarded the PAL Card (Powered Access Licence), the most widely held and recognised proof of training for platform operators. The PAL Card is valid for five years and shows the machine categories that the operator has been trained in. It also features the holder’s photo and signature, and can be verified by calling IPAF.
Joining IPAF
Membership of IPAF is open to users of platforms, manufacturers, distributors, rental and training companies. Members come from more than 30 countries, mainly in Europe and America, but also in the Middle East, the Far East and the Pacific. Members enjoy benefits including:
* Access to a wealth of valuable, practical information on legal, technical and commercial aspects of platform use.
* The chance to influence the growing body of legislation and regulations that governs platform use.
* Free services such as a specialist advisory service, an insurance management system and a business information service.
