IPAF Safety Harness Awareness Course
Key Features
Of this IPAF Harness Awareness Course:
- Covers full requirements for safe harness use on all IPAF MEWP categories including scissor lifts, boom lifts and vehicle-mounted platforms
- Includes practical inspection routines, correct anchor point selection and rescue planning for real site conditions
- Aligns with current Work at Height Regulations 2005 and IPAF best-practice guidance for 2026
- Suitable for both new operators and experienced personnel requiring refresher training
- Delivered by IPAF-approved instructors with current industry experience
Course Date Availability
IPAF Harness Awareness training at the following 12 centres. Prices from £0 per person :
| Training Centres | Next Available Dates |
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Course Information
Overview:
The IPAF Safety Harness Awareness course provides comprehensive instruction on the selection, inspection, fitting and correct use of fall protection equipment when operating mobile elevating work platforms. Delegates learn how to identify appropriate anchor points on different MEWP types, carry out pre-use checks and plan for emergency rescue in line with current UK legislation and IPAF guidance. The training emphasises practical decision-making in varied workplace environments such as construction sites, maintenance facilities and industrial settings.
Who Should Attend?
This course is designed for:
- MEWP operators working on scissor lifts, boom lifts and vehicle-mounted platforms
- Site supervisors and managers responsible for height safety planning
- Maintenance technicians and engineers using powered access equipment
- Health and safety advisors overseeing work at height activities
- Contractors and employees who require formal harness awareness certification
What You Will Learn
By the end of the course you will be able to:
- Legal duties under the Work at Height Regulations and PUWER
- Types of harnesses, lanyards and associated equipment suitable for MEWP use
- Pre-use inspection techniques and identifying common defects
- Correct fitting and adjustment of harnesses for different body types
- Anchor point selection on various MEWP models and configurations
- Fall arrest versus restraint systems and when each is appropriate
- Rescue procedures and suspension trauma awareness
- Documentation and record-keeping requirements
Course Agenda
Overview:
The course combines classroom instruction with practical demonstrations and is typically completed in one day. Delegates participate in hands-on sessions using actual harness equipment and MEWP anchor points.
Key Modules Covered
What you will learn:
- Introduction to working at height legislation and IPAF guidance
- Harness types, components and compatibility with MEWPs
- Pre-use checks, fitting and adjustment practical exercises
- Anchor point identification across different platform types
- Rescue planning and suspension trauma management
- Written and practical assessment
Private Courses On-site
IPAF Safety Harness Awareness training is also available as a dedicated course, at your premises, and on a date and time of your choosing. Advantages of group / private course is the convenience of candidates being in familiar surroundings and not having to travel, the lowest price, and the ability to have the course tailored to your own application.
Latest Delegate Feedback
⭐ Rated 4.3 By Our Candidates - (169 reviews)
The learning gained at the training event held at the Hornchurch training centre was 8/10. Public transport the only issue..
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – Richard - Mon 11th May 2026
Good in every respect...
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – James L - Mon 11th May 2026
Well executed...
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – Matthew C - Thu 7th May 2026
IPAF Harness Awareness Course was delivered expertly. Thank you very much..
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – Hayley C - Thu 7th May 2026
Accreditation & Next Steps
What you will achieve as a result:
Successful delegates receive an IPAF certificate of attendance and an ePAL digital record. The qualification remains valid for five years, after which a refresher course is required to maintain competence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most commonly asked IPAF Safety Harness Awareness questions:
The standard course runs for one day, combining theory sessions with practical demonstrations and assessments.
No formal prerequisites exist, although delegates should have a basic understanding of working at height and be physically able to carry out practical harness fitting exercises.
The syllabus includes legislation, harness types and components, pre-use inspection, correct fitting, anchor point selection on different MEWPs, rescue procedures and suspension trauma awareness.
Assessment consists of a short written test and a practical evaluation of harness inspection and fitting skills.
Delegates who complete the course successfully receive an IPAF certificate of attendance and an entry on their IPAF ePAL digital card.
The certificate remains valid for five years from the date of successful completion.
Yes, delegates must complete the IPAF Safety Harness Awareness refresher course before the five-year expiry to maintain valid certification.
This course focuses solely on harness safety awareness and does not cover MEWP operation controls or machine-specific training, which are addressed in separate IPAF operator categories.
Delegates should wear appropriate work clothing and safety footwear. All harness equipment and training materials are provided during the session.
The course can be delivered at approved training centres or at suitable employer premises where appropriate facilities and equipment are available.
Yes, dedicated time is allocated to understanding rescue requirements and suspension trauma risks associated with harness use on MEWPs.
The IPAF Safety Harness Awareness certificate is widely accepted by contractors, principal contractors and facility management companies throughout the United Kingdom.
Prices per person typically start at £0. Discounts available for multi person or group bookings (depending upon location)
More Information
Training focuses on developing confident, competent decision-making so delegates can apply harness safety principles across the full range of powered access operations they encounter in their work.
Last updated: Jun 2026 • Part of XYZ Training Group