IPAF Categories

The IPAF training categories, with abbreviations and brief explanations, are:

Static Vertical (1a, 1a+): Vertical personnel platforms (static)

Static Boom (1b, 1b+): Self-propelled booms (outriggers), trailers/push-arounds, vehicle-mounted platforms

Mobile Vertical (3a, 3a+): Scissor lifts, vertical personnel platforms (mobile)

Mobile Boom (3b, 3b+): Self-propelled booms

Push Around Vertical (PAV): Push around verticals

Special (SPECIAL): Specialist machines

• Mast Climbing Work Platforms (MCWP)
• Insulated Aerial Devices (IAD) 
• Harness Use and Inspection (H)
• Loading and Unloading (LOAD)
• MEWPs for Managers (MM)

What the "+" symbol means
This means that the operator has successfully completed the PAL+ course, which covers additional, practical training and testing on the machine category indicated. The operator has successfully demonstrated his/her ability to operate powered access equipment safely and effectively in challenging work environments.