What is the IPAF PAV (Push Around Vertical) Course?
The IPAF PAV course is a formal operator training program for using Push Around Vertical lifts, offered by IPAF-accredited training providers across the UK. It is typically run as a half-day session that equips participants with the skills and knowledge to safely operate PAV equipment. Completing this course is not just recommended – it is often legally required for anyone who will use a push-around vertical lift at work, as it ensures you meet health and safety regulations for working at height. As a type of working at height training in the UK, the IPAF PAV course helps employers and operators comply with safety laws while using these lifts on site.
Push Around Verticals are small, manually-propelled vertical platforms with no engine, they are physically pushed into place by the operator and then raised using battery or hydraulic power. PAVs provide a convenient low-level access platform designed to meet UK work-at-height regulations, making them much safer than using ladders or steps and more cost-effective than erecting scaffolding for small jobs. These compact lifts are commonly used indoors and in tight spaces across various industries (construction, manufacturing, warehousing, etc.) where a safe elevated work platform is needed. The IPAF PAV training course is therefore ideal for workers who will operate, supervise, or manage the use of these push-around vertical platforms in their workplace.
Course Content
IPAF PAV training involves a blend of classroom theory and hands-on practical instruction. Learners can expect a comprehensive curriculum covering all essential aspects of PAV operation. The course typically includes:
This structured approach ensures that by the end of the session, delegates have both the theoretical understanding and the hands-on experience needed to operate a PAV safely and confidently. The training is short (about 4 hours) but intensive, focusing on real-world safe-use scenarios and risk avoidance techniques. Trainees often comment that the course is very informative and engaging, with instructors guiding them through each step until they are comfortable with the equipment.
Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for an IPAF PAV course are straightforward. Candidates must typically be at least 16 years of age to register for IPAF training. A good understanding of English (both spoken and written) is important, as the course materials, theory test, and instructions are in English. No prior experience with powered access equipment is required – the PAV course is suitable for novices as well as experienced operators (the training will start with basics and build up skills). However, participants should be medically fit and comfortable with working at height, since operating a vertical lift involves elevating to low-level heights.
It’s also expected that attendees come prepared with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the practical session. This usually includes a safety hard hat, steel-toe boots, and a high-visibility vest or jacket. Some training centres may also recommend eye protection and gloves. Ensuring you meet these basic requirements will help you get the most out of the course and complete the training safely.
Assessment
The IPAF PAV course is assessed through a combination of a theory test and a practical test to verify the trainee’s knowledge and skills. After covering the classroom lessons, learners must complete a written theory examination – typically a multiple-choice test – which assesses understanding of the topics such as regulations, inspection steps, and safe operating procedures. A passing score on this theory test is required to move on to the practical stage.
Following the theory, each participant undergoes a practical assessment. During this test, the trainee is asked to carry out a pre-use inspection of the PAV and then operate the machine through a set of manoeuvres under the instructor’s observation. This includes safely moving the platform into position, elevating and lowering it correctly, and responding to any emergency stop or recovery procedures. The instructor will be looking for the operator’s ability to control the PAV smoothly, use the safety features properly, and maintain awareness of hazards. To successfully complete the course, the candidate must pass both the written and practical assessments. This dual assessment ensures that certified operators not only know the safety theory but can also apply it in practice. If a participant does not meet the required standard, most training providers will offer guidance on areas for improvement and allow a re-test as needed.
Certification
Upon successful completion of the PAV course, learners are awarded an official IPAF Certificate and the Powered Access Licence (PAL) Card listing the PAV category. The PAL Card is a credit-card style ID (now also issued digitally via IPAF’s ePAL mobile app) that serves as proof of your IPAF training qualifications.
The IPAF PAV certification is valid for five years from the date of issue. Before the five-year period expires, operators should undergo a renewal process to extend their license for another five years. Renewal typically involves taking a refresher course or a re-test (see the FAQs below for more on renewal requirements). If a PAL Card is allowed to expire without renewal, the holder would need to retake the full course to regain their qualification.
Available training dates
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Find a training dateWhat does IPAF PAV stand for?
IPAF PAV stands for Push Around Vertical, referring to a type of small vertical MEWP that is moved into position manually rather than self-propelled. In the context of training, it denotes the IPAF course dedicated to operating these push-around vertical lift platforms.
Is IPAF PAV training mandatory in the UK?
Yes. In the UK, anyone who operates a Push Around Vertical lift is legally required to have proper training.
IPAF’s official guidance confirms that you do need training to use a PAV – even though it’s a small static machine – to comply with safety regulations. The half-day IPAF PAV course fulfills this requirement by teaching you to operate the equipment safely. (The only exception is if you already hold an equivalent IPAF qualification in a similar category, as noted below.)
How long does the IPAF PAV training course take?
The IPAF PAV operator course is relatively short – typically around half a day in duration. Many providers advertise it as a 4-hour course. Despite being brief, it covers both theory and practical training within that time. Some training centres may offer the theory portion via eLearning (online) followed by a shorter in-person practical session, but the total time commitment is still roughly half a day. This makes it convenient to fit into a work schedule while still ensuring all critical content is covered.
How long is the IPAF PAV certificate valid, and how do I renew it?
The IPAF PAV certification (PAL Card) is valid for five years from the date you pass the course. Before it expires, you need to renew your IPAF license to remain certified. Renewal in the UK usually involves taking a short refresher course or a renewal test through an IPAF-approved training centre. To qualify for a direct renewal (without retaking the full course), you are generally expected to have kept an up-to-date logbook of your MEWP operating hours as proof of ongoing experience. If you renew within the final year of your card’s validity, you can extend it for another 5 years. If you allow the PAV PAL card to expire, then you will be required to complete the full course and tests again to regain the qualification. It’s best practice to schedule your renewal before the expiry date – this way you stay continuously certified to operate push-around verticals.
If I already have an IPAF 3a or 1a license, do I need the PAV course?
Not necessarily. IPAF specifies that if you hold a current IPAF PAL Card for Static Vertical (1a) or Mobile Vertical (3a) MEWP categories, you do not need to take a separate PAV course. The 1a and 3a categories cover similar operating principles (static and mobile scissor lifts), so a trained 3a/1a operator is considered qualified to use a push-around vertical lift after receiving a familiarisation on the specific machine. In such cases, your employer should provide a documented familiarisation session on the PAV machine and record it in your logbook (or the IPAF ePAL app). However, if you do not have an existing IPAF license in 1a or 3a, then attending the PAV course is required to obtain the PAV certification. Always ensure your training categories match the equipment you plan to use.
Where can I take the IPAF PAV training in the UK?
The PAV course is available through IPAF accredited training centres nationwide in the UK. You can find courses offered by various providers in all regions – for example, training companies and equipment hire firms often run regular IPAF PAV courses at their facilities. It’s also possible to arrange on-site training at your own company premises if you have a suitable location and PAV machine available. To book a course, you can search the IPAF category on our website. Prices and schedules may vary, but all providers will follow the official IPAF syllabus and standards. Upon completion, the results are registered with IPAF and you receive the same certified PAL card regardless of which approved centre you trained with.
What does the IPAF PAL Card prove?
The IPAF PAL Card (Powered Access Licence) is the official proof that you have successfully completed IPAF training for a given MEWP category. In the case of PAV, your PAL card will show the “PAV” category endorsement. Having this card proves you are a trained and accredited operator for push-around vertical lifts. It’s a photo ID card (now also accessible digitally via the ePAL app) that most job sites in the UK will ask to see before you are allowed to operate any access platform. The PAL card indicates you understand how to operate the equipment safely and have passed the necessary tests. Employers and safety inspectors recognise the IPAF PAL card as the industry standard qualification for MEWP operators. Remember to carry your PAL card with you when working at height – it’s a quick way to show your credentials and it includes details like the categories of machines you’re qualified on and the expiry date of the certification.
