The key to the safe and efficient use of work platforms is careful operator training in accordance with DGUV principle 308-008 (formerly BGG 966). More and more companies are opting for professional, practice-oriented training. mateco provides training in accordance with the internationally recognised IPAF standard. This concept was developed and continuously expanded by work platform users and safety experts. IPAF training is certified by TÜV in accordance with ISO 18878 and complies with DGUV principle 308-008. IPAF training can be carried out for various categories of equipment. The overview of IPAF categories shows you what these are and which types of work platforms are included in each category.
The IPAF training certificates are displayed in a future-orientated app on your smartphone, which offers the following advantages:
- Access to current safety guides
- Badge can be downloaded to multiple end devices, which prevents loss
- Badge is always to hand
- Digital logbook
- Quick access to report an accident or near-miss involving MEWPs
- No plastic waste - a clean environment
Prerequisites for participation in the IPAF training course for work platform operators:
- At least 18 years of age*
- Physical and mental aptitude and fitness for working at heights
- Knowledge of written and spoken German**
* Exceptions are trainees who are under constant supervision (in accordance with DGUV-G 308-008).
** Training can be conducted with an interpreter commissioned by the customer. The examination forms can also be provided in different languages. Please do not hesitate to contact us.
The training course lasts one day. The training is held either at one of our training centres throughout Germany or at your premises. Qualified trainers teach in small, effective groups with a maximum of eight participants. The mateco Academy also offers you the option of completing the theory part online via e-learning or, on request, as a webinar via Microsoft Teams.
In the theory part you will learn
- Structure, function and operation of the work platform
- Relevant accident prevention regulations
- Behaviour on traffic routes
- Safety equipment on work platforms
- Sources of error and specific accident hazards
In the practical part you will learn
- Stable assembly / procedures
- Operation of the various work platforms
- Familiarisation with the operating elements, e.g. emergency lowering
- Use of the PPE as a restraint system
In addition to traditional training concepts, the mateco Academy also uses modern training methods. For example, the theory lessons of the IPAF training programme can be completed via web-based training (WBT). We thus provide an e-learning training programme that is available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (24/7). The training programme is nationally and internationally valid and certified in accordance with DGUV principle 308-008 and ISO 18878:2013.
Additional requirements:
- Internet-capable end device (PC or laptop) with access to the Internet
- Personalised e-mail address of the participants
Advantages of e-learning for IPAF training:
- Flexible access to the training content whenever you want (24/7)
- Less working time required for training
- Theory and practice can be carried out independently of each other
- Content is updated regularly
- Intuitive guidance through the training
- In-depth visual and audio content
- Intermediate tests and interactive modules consolidate the learning content
- Companies have full control over who has taken part
The IPAF operator training is valid indefinitely at national level. The prerequisite for this is annual instruction in accordance with the ArbSchG. Internationally, however, the validity is limited to 5 years in accordance with ISO 18878 certification.
By attending an IPAF extension course, you have the opportunity to extend your IPAF operator training internationally for a further 5 years. The prerequisite for this is possession of a valid PAL card for IPAF operators.
The IPAF extension course takes place as part of the IPAF operator training course and therefore also lasts one day.
Prerequisites for participation in the IPAF extension course:
- Possession of a valid IPAF operator training course
- Proof of regular practical experience*
- Physical and mental aptitude and fitness for working at height
- Knowledge of written and spoken German**
* Proof of at least 60 entries in the logbook, including 10 entries from the year before the expiry date. Alternatively, written confirmation from the employer that the operator has used work platforms at least 60 times over a period of 5 years (of which at least 10 times in the year prior to the expiry date) is sufficient.
** Training can be carried out with an interpreter appointed by the customer. The examination forms can also be made available in different languages. Please do not hesitate to contact us.
The following list prices apply to our IPAF training courses for work platform operators:
- IPAF operator course:
for one category: €320 per person (plus €45 IPAF licence fee)
for two categories: €350 per person (plus €45 IPAF licence fee)
for three categories: €400 per person (plus €45 IPAF licence fee)
- IPAF extension course:
for one category: €275 per person
for two categories: €295 per person
for three categories: €345 per person
The certificates for our IPAF training courses are provided free of charge via an app. We can also create and send you a physical card for an additional charge of €70. If you require such a PAL Card in printed form, please let us know in the comments field when registering for training.
The above prices also apply to e-learning and WBT training courses.
The prices apply to registrations from Germany plus VAT. Additional costs may be incurred for ancillary services.
Note on group training courses:
Group training dates can be discussed individually with the mateco Academy team. Please contact us at Akademie@mateco.de or +49 2802 949272.
