OSHC Becomes IPAF Approved Training Centre to Meet 2026 Safety Standards

The Occupational Safety and Health Council (OSHC) Hong Kong and the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) are proud to announce a significant evolution in their long-standing partnership. Building on a collaboration that began in September 2024, OSHC has officially transitioned to become an IPAF Approved Training Centre.

This strategic move ensures that OSHC is fully equipped to deliver IPAF’s internationally recognised MEWP Operator Training Course - ISO 18878, while aligning with the Guidance Notes on Safe Use of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms updated by the Hong Kong Labour Department in February 2026.

Since 2024, OSHC and IPAF have worked closely to deliver Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWP) Operator and Supervisor Training. By upgrading to an Approved Training Centre, OSHC now offers a localised hub for ISO-certified programmes that not only meet the Labour Department’s latest mandates, but exceed them in technical rigour and global recognition.

(Left to Right: Alice Lam, Principal Consultant at OSHC, Raymond Wat, IPAF SEA Regional Manager)

By becoming an IPAF Approved Training Centre, OSHC can provide enhanced value for the Hong Kong workforce:

• International Training Standard: IPAF’s MEWP Operator Training Course is developed in accordance with ISO 18878, the global standard for Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) operator training.
• Globally Recognised Licence: The IPAF Powered Access Licence (PAL) Card is internationally recognised as a benchmark of high-quality MEWP operator competence.
• 24/7 Online Verification: Site and safety managers can verify PAL Card authenticity anytime, ensuring that all operator licences are valid, genuine, and up to date.

To assist industry stakeholders in navigating the February 2026 regulatory updates, IPAF has released a specialised document: ‘Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) Operator Training Course Requirements in Hong Kong’

(OSHC successfully conducted its first IPAF Operator Training Course, compliant with ISO 18878, on 30 March 2026) 

Recognising the diverse needs of the local industry, this essential resource is available in both English and Traditional Chinese. This document provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Labour Department’s requirements and illustrates how the IPAF curriculum fulfils and supersedes these benchmarks, ensuring that Hong Kong operators receive world-class safety education.

Download Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) Operator Training Course Requirements in Hong Kong now