Almost every access hire website mentions IPAF-trained operators. It's easy to skim past, but it's one of the most important things to check before anyone lifts you, your staff or your tradesperson 20 metres into the air.
What is IPAF?
IPAF, the International Powered Access Federation, is the industry body for powered access equipment such as cherry pickers, boom lifts and scissor lifts. Its operator training is the recognised standard across the UK.
What does the training cover?
An IPAF-trained operator has been taught and then tested on how to use the platform safely, not just shown which lever does what. That includes:
- Pre-use checks on the machine before every job
- Assessing the ground and setting up on stabilisers correctly
- Safe working loads in the basket
- Positioning around buildings, trees and overhead hazards like cables
- Emergency procedures, including bringing the basket down safely
Why it matters to you as the customer
Insurance
Many insurance policies, especially on commercial sites, expect the platform to be run by a certified operator. If something goes wrong with an uncertified person at the controls, you could find yourself without cover.
Site safety
A trained operator reads the site before the boom goes up: soft ground, slopes, overhead cables, low branches and passing traffic. That judgement is a big part of what keeps everyone safe.
Less risk of damage
Correct set-up and smooth operation protect the platform, your building and anything nearby, from guttering to parked cars.
Compliance
On construction and commercial sites, an IPAF-certified operator is often a basic requirement before you're allowed to start work.
Our operators
Every job we carry out is done by one of our own IPAF-trained operators. That's exactly why we only offer operated hire, never self-drive. You get the access you need without having to arrange certification or take on the risk yourself.
Need a cherry picker?
Operated hire from £280, with an IPAF-trained operator and local travel included.
