IPAF Issues 3 mil PAL Cards

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has reached a significant global milestone, with three million Powered Access Licence (PAL) Cards being issued since the training program inception in 1993.

This achievement means that three million operators have been trained to IPAF’s internationally recognised standards.

The PAL Card is the most widely recognised proof of operator training for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) and mast climbing work platforms (MCWPs).

Issued following successful completion of IPAF-approved training, the card demonstrates that an operator has been trained by an IPAF-approved training centre and assessed as competent to operate powered access equipment safely.

IPAF’s PAL Card program has grown steadily since its inception. IPAF first began certifying training in 1993, and the distinctive card – credit-card sized, personalised and photo-validated – was officially introduced in 1998. In its first year of issuance, just over 11,000 operators were certified; the PAL Card quickly became popular and helped standardise operator competence globally.

Since then, IPAF has publicly marked several significant benchmarks. In 2014, the federation passed the one million PAL Cards issued mark, followed by 1.5 million in 2017, and over two million by 2020 – during a period that saw expansion of Smart card technology that helps integrate the licence with machine security and telematics systems.

IPAF’s training program continues to evolve in line with technological advances, regional regulations, and industry best practice. Digital PAL Cards, available via the IPAF ePAL app, have further enhanced accessibility and verification, making it easier for employers and site managers to confirm operator competence.

PAL Cards are now held by operators in more than 60 countries, supporting safer work at height across construction, industrial maintenance, logistics, facilities management, and a wide range of other sectors.

IPAF has issued three million Powered Access Licence (PAL) Cards. The PAL Card is the most widely recognised proof of operator training for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) and Mast Climbing Work Platforms (MCWPs).

Peter Douglas, CEO and Managing Director of IPAF, said: “Issuing three million PAL Cards is a major milestone for IPAF and for the powered access industry as a whole.

“Each card represents an individual who has received recognised training and understands the importance of operating equipment safely. This achievement reflects the dedication of our training centres, instructors, members and partners worldwide, and it reinforces our belief that proper training is fundamental to reducing accidents and improving safety at height.

“Effective training is essential to reducing accidents and improving safety culture. By ensuring operators understand not only how to use equipment, but how to assess risk and work responsibly, IPAF training plays a key role in preventing incidents and saving lives.

“As the powered access market continues to expand globally, we remain committed to working with manufacturers, rental companies, contractors and regulators to ensure that training standards remain robust, relevant, and internationally aligned.”