IPAF and Scaffolding Association Australia Sign MoU to Boost Mast Climber Safety and Training

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Scaffolding Association Australia (SAA) to enhance safety and training standards within the mast climbing work platform (MCWP) industry across Australia.

The SAA is the national industry body representing the scaffolding sector across the country, and advocates for higher standards in safety, training and professionalism within the industry. The agreement formalises a collaborative partnership between the two organisations, aimed at improving industry knowledge, sharing best practice and supporting the safe and effective use of MCWPs.

Under the MoU, IPAF and the SAA will work together on initiatives that promote safety, competence and regulatory alignment.  

As part of this agreement:

• IPAF will join the SAA’s Mast Climber Subcommittee, bringing international expertise to our discussions and initiatives.
• Both organisations will share and develop resources, safety materials and technical guidance to improve standards and outcomes for mast climber operations in Australia.
• We will explore collaborative safety campaigns, training improvements and industry education initiatives that benefit all workers at height.

Peter Douglas, CEO and Managing Director of IPAF, said:
“This partnership strengthens our global commitment to safer working at height by extending our support and resources to the mast climber industry in Australia. Collaborating with the Scaffolding Association Australia will help ensure that safety and training standards remain at the forefront as MCWP usage grows in the region.”

The SAA, which represents key stakeholders in the scaffolding and temporary access industry, welcomed the agreement as an important milestone in advancing safety culture and professionalism.

SAA Chair & Managing Director Rob Thiess commented:
“This MoU reflects our commitment to raising the bar for mast climber safety and training in Australia. Partnering with IPAF allows us to bring global expertise to our local industry, ensuring that we’re not only meeting current safety standards but leading the way in improving them. Together, we will drive better education, awareness, and compliance to keep workers safe and projects efficient.”

The MoU is part of IPAF’s ongoing strategy to strengthen international cooperation and raise awareness of safety challenges and solutions in the powered access industry.