IPAF Supports CIF ‘Back to Basics’ Safety Campaign Across Ireland
The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) is proud to support the Construction Industry Federati
on’s (CIF) Back to Basics safety campaign, which runs from 13–24 October and encourages everyone in the Irish construction sector to refocus on the fundamental principles of health and safety.
Encompassing European Safety Week, during the two-week campaign Damien O’Connor, IPAF’s Irish Country Manager, will work with contractors across Ireland, carrying out a series of site visits and safety talks aimed at promoting safe work at height using powered access equipment and mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs). Each day will be spent at a different project, with sessions delivered to a range of groups that may include project management teams, EHS personnel, general construction workers, and, importantly, MEWP operators and spotters.
The initiative focuses on revisiting essential practices and ensuring that all workers understand and apply the basics of MEWP safety. Key topics IPAF will be covering include:
- Ground conditions and the importance of correct machine selection
- Pre-use inspections
- Operator and spotter familiarisation
- Safe operation, supervision, and rescue plans
“Safety starts on the ground. Whether operating a MEWP, managing a worksite or supervising teams, attention to the basics can prevent serious injuries and help save lives. The CIF campaign aligns perfectly with IPAF’s mission to promote the safe and effective use of powered access for safe working at height. By working together with the CIF and with the support from our members, we can help reinforce these core safety behaviours, to ensure every worker goes home safely at the end of the day.”
Damien O’Connor, IPAF’s Irish Country Manager
For more information about how IPAF is supporting CIF Construction Safety Week 2025, visit our dedicated Back to Basics campaign page, which has a free downloadable safety leaflet.
