IPAF 3a + 3b: Mobile Vertical and Mobile Boom

IPAF training is a necessary part of using mobile elevating work platforms. IPAF training teaches operators everything they need to operate powered access equipment safely. At Star Platforms, we provide IPAF 3a & 3b training at our training centres.

 

What Is the IPAF 3a & 3b Training Course?

The IPAF 3A and 3B training course is designed to equip operators with the essential skills and certification required to safely operate Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs).

  • Category 3A covers vertical lifts such as scissor lifts
  • Category 3B covers boom-type platforms including cherry pickers and articulated booms

Led by experienced instructors, the course combines classroom-based theory with hands-on practical assessments.

The operator training course will include a practical training session, as well as a theory section followed by a practical assessment and a theory assessment. The practical training will allow you to gain hands-on experience using the MEWPs, bringing you one step closer to becoming an accredited IPAF operator.

A written test will need to be completed, and upon successful completion, delegates will be awarded an IPAF Certificate and a digital PAL card (Powered access license card) for the MEWP category completed (3a 3b).

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Upon successful completion of the course you will have an understanding of:

  • Safety regulations
  • Personal protective equipment
  • Accident prevention
  • Warning alarms routine inspection
  • Safe operating techniques
  • Servicing requirements preparation
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3A & 3B IPAF Training with Star Platforms

Looking to book you or your team on an IPAF 3A & 3B training course? We can help! If you need help choosing the right IPAF training course for you, then get in touch or book through our course booking page.

We offer IPAF training courses at our training centres across the UK, take a look at our depot locations to find the closest training centre to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

The IPAF 3a & 3b training course is for people who intend on operating powered access machinery, such as cherry pickers and other mobile elevated work platforms. It ensures people are trained to operate MEWPs safely.

IPAF 3a training will teach you how to safely manoeuvre all mobile vertical machines. Mobile vertical machines are machines that are held by wheels (rather than hydraulic legs) and only move up, rather than up and over.

IPAF 3b machines cover all mobile boom lifts. These are machines that can be moved while in use and use an up and over reach rather than only vertical.

What Is The Difference Between 3a and 3b MEWPs?

The type, of course, depends on the machine categories (1, and 3) and machine type (a or b). Ipaf operator training is typically linked to at least one single category, though sometimes include more than 1 when it makes sense.

Machine categories include:

  • Category 1: Static Machines – these are machines that don’t move when in use. They stand on hydraulic legs rather than wheels.
  • Category 3: Mobile machines – these machines can be driven while in use.
  • Type A: Vertical machines – these machines only move up and down, rather than up and over
  • Type B: Boom machines – these machines are able to reach up and over.

 

    

 

Candidates that successfully complete the course will receive the 3A and 3B IPAF qualifications along with a IPAF Certificate of Training for both. Certificates can be accessed via the IPAF ePAL app or if you require a physical copy these can be purchased for an additional charge.

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