We have centres around the UK and this is our Newark centre special edition news article.
If your business operates powered access equipment across Lincoln, Lincolnshire, Grantham, Skegness, Boston or Nottingham, you’ve likely asked:
Is IPAF training actually a legal requirement?
At Harris Safety, we work with businesses across the East Midlands and Lincolnshire to keep teams safe and compliant. Here’s what you need to know.
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What Is IPAF Training?
IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) training is a recognised qualification for safely operating Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), including:
• Scissor lifts
• Boom lifts
• Cherry pickers
Operators who complete the course receive a PAL (Powered Access Licence) card — widely accepted across UK worksites.
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Is IPAF Training a Legal Requirement?
No — IPAF training itself is not legally required.
However, UK law does require proper training and competence.
Under key regulations:
• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 • PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) 1998 • Work at Height Regulations 2005
Employers must ensure that anyone using MEWPs is:
• Trained to a competent standard
• Able to operate equipment safely
• Aware of hazards and control measures
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Why most sites in Newark, Lincoln & Nottingham require IPAF
Across construction sites, warehouses, and facilities in places like Newark, Lincoln, Grantham, and Nottingham, IPAF is often non-negotiable.
That’s because it:
✔ Meets HSE expectations
✔ Provides recognised proof of operator competence ✔ Helps businesses pass audits and site inspections ✔ Is commonly required by contractors and principal contractors
In reality, even though it’s not law, you’ll struggle to work on most professional sites without it.
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Risks of not having proper training
If your team is using powered access equipment without recognised training, you risk:
• Serious accidents and injuries
• HSE investigations and fines
• Project delays or site bans
• Higher insurance premiums
For businesses operating in busy commercial areas like Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, this can quickly become costly.
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Local IPAF Training with Harris Safety
Harris Safety provides IPAF training for businesses across:
• Newark-on-Trent
• Lincoln
• Grantham
• Skegness
• Boston
• Nottingham
Our courses are designed to help local companies:
• Stay legally compliant
• Reduce workplace risks
• Improve safety culture
• Get staff certified quickly and efficiently
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Why Choose Harris Safety?
✔ Local, trusted provider across Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire ✔ Flexible training options for your business ✔ Experienced instructors with real industry knowledge ✔ Fast-track certification available
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Book IPAF Training Today
If your business operates MEWPs in Newark, Lincoln, Grantham, Skegness, Boston, or Nottingham, IPAF training is the safest and most practical way to meet your legal responsibilities.
👉 Contact Harris Safety today to book your course and keep your workforce compliant and protected.
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Final thoughts
While IPAF training isn’t written into law, competent training is — and IPAF remains the industry standard.
For businesses across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, it’s not just a recommendation — it’s essential for staying competitive, compliant, and safe.
