IPAF 3a training in Manchester for scissor lifts and mobile verticals, at our Pendlebury training centre or on your site, with a same-day ePAL.
IPAF 3a training in Manchester qualifies you to operate mobile vertical platforms, the scissor lifts that go straight up and are driven from the platform itself. They are the workhorse of interior work: ceilings, lighting, sprinklers, ductwork, signage and racking, in everything from new city-centre offices to the distribution sheds around Trafford Park.
A scissor lift only moves vertically, but the platform can be driven while raised, so the risks are specific: pot-holes and floor edges, overhead beams, and other people moving around the base. The course deals with exactly those: pre-use inspection, travelling and positioning at height, safe use of the guardrails and extending deck, and how to bring the platform down in an emergency.
The theory session covers the regulations and the machine. The practical puts you on a scissor lift for inspection, driving, raising and working at height, finishing with an assessment. Pass, and 3a is added to your IPAF PAL card.
If there is any chance you will be asked to operate a cherry picker, book 3a & 3b together. The shared theory makes the second category far better value than booking it later.
We run IPAF 3a at our training centre at Agecroft Enterprise Park, 2 Shearer Way, Pendlebury, Manchester M27 8WA, a short drive from Junction 17 of the M60. For warehouse teams in Trafford Park, fit-out crews in the city centre and facilities staff across Salford and Bolton, that means a short trip rather than a day lost to travel. Courses run Monday to Saturday.
If you would rather not spend the morning in a classroom, complete the theory online first. Then you only need to attend the practical session in Pendlebury, where you are assessed on the scissor lift.
When you pass, 3a is issued on your PAL card the same day as an ePAL in IPAF's free app, valid for five years. Your employer can check it straight away, and so can the site manager at the gate.
Pick a course type below to see the next available dates and book online.
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
Mobile vertical platforms, meaning scissor lifts and similar machines that rise vertically and can be driven with the platform raised.
Half a day to one day, including theory, practical and assessment.
On machines designed for it, yes. The course covers when that's safe and when it isn't, including ground conditions and overhead hazards.
Not usually, because the guardrails provide protection, though some sites require one. Booms are different, and that's covered under 3b.
If you might operate a boom, yes. Booking 3a and 3b together is quicker and cheaper than adding 3b later.
At Pendlebury, near Junction 17 of the M60, or on your site in Greater Manchester.
Yes. Complete the theory online first, then attend a shorter practical session at our Pendlebury centre.
The same day you pass, as an ePAL in IPAF's free app. A physical card can be requested.
Yes, anywhere in Greater Manchester for four or more delegates, using your own scissor lift. Call 0161 533 0903.
Full-day courses run from 8am to 4pm, and half-day sessions from 8am to 1pm.
£140 + 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.
