IPAF 3a and 3b training in Manchester: scissor lifts and cherry pickers on one course, at our Pendlebury training centre or on your site, with a same-day ePAL.
IPAF 3a and 3b training in Manchester is the combination most operatives end up needing, because most Greater Manchester sites run both kinds of machine. A scissor lift handles the ceilings and the straight-up work; a boom reaches over and around whatever is in the way. Hold both categories and you can step onto either without a phone call to the office.
The theory behind 3a and 3b is shared: inspection, safe operation, ground conditions, overhead hazards and emergency lowering. Book both on one course and you cover that once, then spend the practical time on the two machines. It is quicker and better value than booking each category separately, and both categories go on the same PAL card.
On the scissor lift, delegates work through pre-use checks, driving and positioning, and working at height inside the guardrails. On the boom, the practical adds slewing, reaching past obstacles and the harness and lanyard use that goes with working from a basket. Each category ends with its own assessment.
Electricians, M&E installers, fit-out crews, cladding and glazing teams, and facilities staff across Greater Manchester. If a boom is involved, pair the course with IPAF Harness for MEWPs.
The course runs at our Manchester training centre at Agecroft, Pendlebury, a short drive from Junction 17 of the M60. It is an easy journey from Salford Quays, Trafford Park, Bolton and Bury, where a lot of 3a and 3b work goes on. Courses run Monday to Saturday, so you can train on a Saturday and be back on site on Monday.
You can take the full course at the centre, with theory and practical together. Alternatively, complete the theory online first, then come to Pendlebury for a shorter practical session on both machines. Either way, you are assessed on each category separately.
Pass both assessments and your PAL card is issued the same day as an ePAL, endorsed for 3a and 3b and valid for five years. Show it in the IPAF app at the site gate, and you are cleared for both scissor lifts and booms.
Pick a course type below to see the next available dates and book online.
How it works: Please see all available courses which can be filtered above. We have a selection of full-day classroom, half-day practical (theory part done online) and weekend training which you can book from this calendar. If you aren't sure what is best, or would like to ask some questions then please get in touch by call, email, Live Chat or WhatsApp.
How it works: A full day at our Manchester venue covering theory and practical assessment, with your ePAL card issued the same day.
How it works: Complete the theory online (eLearning), then attend a shorter practical-only session at our Manchester venue to finish your assessment.
How it works: Weekend courses for those who can't spare a weekday — same accreditation, same same-day ePAL card.
Training four or more people? We'll bring the course to your site or offices on a date that suits you — no travel, no downtime, and a better price per person than booking individual places.
Requires a minimum of 4 attendees
3a covers mobile vertical platforms such as scissor lifts, which rise straight up. 3b covers mobile booms, which reach up and out. This course qualifies you on both.
Half a day to one day. The theory is shared, and then there is a practical assessment in each category.
Yes. Taking both together avoids repeating the theory, which is why most delegates choose the combined course.
Operating a boom normally means wearing a harness with a restraint lanyard. We run IPAF Harness for MEWPs at the same venue.
At our Pendlebury venue near Junction 17 of the M60, or on your site across Greater Manchester.
Five years.
Yes. Complete the theory online first, then attend a shorter practical session at our Pendlebury centre covering both machines.
The same day you pass, as an ePAL in IPAF's free app. A physical card can be requested.
Yes. Courses run Monday to Saturday.
Yes, anywhere in Greater Manchester for four or more delegates, as long as you have a scissor lift, a boom and space to train. Call 0161 533 0903.
Full-day courses run from 8am to 4pm, and half-day sessions from 8am to 1pm.
£185 + VAT per person. We're the best-priced training provider in Manchester and the North West: if you find the same course cheaper, call 0161 533 0903 and we'll beat it. Group rates are available for teams.
Book your place online, or call our team for honest advice and the next available dates. Group discounts and onsite training available.
