IPAF Certification: Which Categories Does Your Team Actually Need?

​Choosing the correct IPAF certification categories can feel confusing. With different types of powered access equipment used across various sites, it’s easy to overspend on training or miss essential categories entirely. Understanding the IPAF system clearly helps you make smart decisions, stay compliant and ensure operators use equipment safely.

IPAF Categories Explained

IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) divides training into categories based on the type of machine an operator will use. The three most common categories are:

• 3a – Mobile Vertical (scissor lifts)
• 3b – Mobile Boom (articulated or telescopic boom lifts)
• 1b – Static Boom (static vertical platforms)

Knowing the differences allows training managers to match training directly to operational needs rather than relying on broad or generic packages.

When Your Team Needs IPAF Training 3A & 3B

Category 3a is ideal for internal fit-outs, warehouse maintenance and any task requiring safe, straight vertical access. These environments typically use scissor lifts, especially in retail, logistics and facilities management.

Category 3b, on the other hand, suits outdoor tasks where operators require extra reach or flexibility. Boom lifts are essential for external building work, tree surgery, façade repairs and any situation where operators must reach up and over obstacles.

Only Train For The Categories You Use

It’s common for businesses to default to multi-category IPAF Courses, assuming this is more efficient. But in practice, very few operators need every category. Extra training adds cost, extra refresher requirements and more administrative work.

This is why assessing your powered access fleet, daily tasks and project pipeline is so important. With a clear understanding of your operational environment, you can choose targeted training instead of unnecessary add-ons.

The benefits of careful category selection include:

• Lower long-term renewal costs because IPAF cards refresh every five years
• Less downtime caused by sending operators on avoidable refresher courses
• Reduced admin burden for busy training teams
• More accurate and manageable competence records

Risks of using the wrong category include:

• Potential HSE enforcement action if operators use equipment outside their certification
• Insurance claims being rejected due to incorrect or missing categories
• Liability issues after an accident involving powered access equipment
• Project delays caused by site shutdowns or investigations

Selecting the right IPAF categories is the most effective way to keep your team safe, compliant and fully prepared for the work they carry out. With a thoughtful approach to IPAF training 3a & 3b, 1b and any additional categories, training managers can reduce costs, minimise risk and ensure operators are confident and competent in the equipment they use.

Ensure your team has the right IPAF certification for your equipment. Qualitrain's category-specific training delivers compliance without unnecessary costs. Contact us today!

​Image source - Canva