IPAF Webinar: Introducing IPAF’s New MEWP Spotter Training Course

Online, via Zoom
25 March 2026, 12:00 (UK Time)

Find out more about what the role of MEWP Spotter, why and when they are needed, and importantly, how they can help reduce worksite accidents. You’ll hear from contractors - many of whom now use MEWP Spotters as standard practice as part of their risk assessments.  
This is your opportunity to ask questions and learn how standardised training of MEWP Spotters role can support safe, efficient working practices.  

 

Confirmed Speakers:

Host:
Damien O’Connor Irish Country Manager, IPAF

Damien O’Connor has an extensive background in the construction industry, with a successful career across national and international projects. Damien has a detailed knowledge of the powered access industry, equipment and access rental gained through a decade of experience as a safety consultant and regional manager with HSS Hire Ireland.  

In his current position as the Irish Country Manager for the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Damien’s focus is to promote and raise awareness of safe practices in the use of powered access equipment throughout Ireland. His goal is to reduce injuries associated its use each year.  

With his significant experience and industry knowledge he aims to inspire both individuals and organisations to gain a greater understanding of powered access equipment and prioritise safety first when utilising them in the workplace.  

Paul Roddis, Training Manager, IPAF 

Paul has been in the industry for over 20 years and in training for over 10 of those. He is responsible for the creation and delivery of all IPAF training courses worldwide. Prior to joining IPAF Paul was a Senior IPAF Instructor, Lead PASMA Instructor, Lead Ladder Association Instructor, Confined Space Instructor and Assessor, and a CITB Site Management Instructor. He is committed to keeping people safe by creating world class training for Powered Access. 

Gary Hutchinson, Business Unit Health & Safety Manager, John Sisk & Son

Gary Hutchinson is a Business Unit Health & Safety Manager from Tullamore, Co. Offaly, with over a decade of experience as a Health & Safety professional in the construction sector. He has spent the majority of his career with John Sisk & Son, where he has developed extensive expertise in promoting safe working practices across complex projects. Since September 2023, Gary has represented Sisk at IPAF Irish Council meetings, contributing to industry discussions and initiatives.  

Ivan Conway, EHS Director, Winthrop Technologies

Starting his career in 2005 as a Safety Graduate with one of Ireland’s leading Civil Engineering Contractors, Ivan was involved in a wide variety of key infrastructure projects across Ireland and the U.K. before joining Winthrop Technologies in 2022 as EHS Director. Winthrop Technologies is a dedicated Data Centre delivery partner, providing turnkey solutions for Clients throughout Europe, delivering services from design, through to construction across the full range of civil, structural, architectural, mechanical and electrical services as well as commissioning. The safe use of MEWPs is a key safety focus for Winthrop across all their projects.