The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) promotes the safe and effective use of powered access equipment worldwide. It provides technical advice and information, influences and interprets legislation and standards, and runs safety initiatives and training programmes. It is a not-for-profit organisation owned by its members who include manufacturers, rental companies, contractors and users.

IPAF’s training programme for platforms operators is certified by TÜV as conforming to ISO 18878. More than 180,000 operators are trained each year through a worldwide network of over 750 IPAF-approved training centres. Successful trainees are awarded the PAL Card (Powered Access Licence), the most widely held and recognised proof of training for platform operators.