Training 2000 welcomes first Power Access learners

Blackburn-based Training 2000, the largest group training association in England, has launched a dedicated International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) training centre and welcomed its first cohort of learners.

The group, from BAE Systems, is the first to complete the IPAF training course at the newly-accredited centre, based on Challenge Way in Blackburn.

Delivered by qualified IPAF instructors, the course provides on-site and in-situ training for people who work with powered access equipment, such as cherry pickers, fork lift trucks and scissor lifts.

On successful completion of the course, operators will receive an IPAF PAL card allowing them to work in any environment that involves the use of such equipment.

Operating powered access machinery has an element of risk involved, making the accreditation an essential qualification for the likes of scaffolders, construction workers, window cleaners, warehouse operatives and maintenance professionals.

As the training centre has close links to the M65 motorway, the course will be easily accessible for learners across East Lancashire.

Janette Bury, business manager of forklift truck and logistics at Training 2000, said: “We are delighted to be an IPAF accredited centre and offer this qualification as it is an essential safety requirement in many industries.

“Now that the first learners have completed their course, we are expecting more demand and as the centre is also delivering Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) courses for LGV drivers we are confident that the centre will attract learners from across the county.” Tim Whiteman, CEO and managing director of the International Powered Access Federation, said:”IPAF operator training is available in 28 countries and nine languages, but we are especially glad to add Training 2000 to the list of accredited training centres as they are just 50 miles from our head office in Cumbria – we wish them great success.”