End users are kindly reminded to check the validity of all International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Powered Access Licence (PAL) Cards for operators of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), mast-climbing work platforms (MCWPs) and construction hoists (CHs), in order to beat would-be fraudsters and help keep work sites safe.
Giles Councell, IPAF’s Director of Operations, says: “IPAF is aware of increasingly sophisticated techniques deployed by those trying to circumvent the various measures we have in place that allow end users, supervisors and managers of powered access operations to verify the validity of the IPAF PAL Card.
“We always work hard to respond quickly and effectively, and to crack down on any instances of suspected fraud that is brought to our attention. However, in order to be reassured that workers presenting PAL Cards as certification of successful completion of an IPAF operator training course are genuine, and that the certification is valid and in-date, follow three quick and simple steps:
“It is easy to check and IPAF PAL Card by visiting www.ipaf.org/checkpal – you must never use any other website, and you should ensure the webpage you click on does not redirect elsewhere and remains on the www.ipaf.org domain.
“Alternatively, if the PAL Card is digital and stored in the user’s ePAL app, it is quick and easy for site supervisors, managers or any other authorised person to check the digital PAL Card’s validity by scanning the QR code generated in the app.
“Finally, if in doubt, please contact IPAF’s head office on +44 (0)15395 66700 and ask to speak to one of the team, who can quickly check that a PAL Card is the genuine article and can respond to any suspicion you may have of attempted fraud.
“Ultimately, the most effective way to beat any would-be fraudster out there, and for operators to provide evidence of training certification digitally, is to use the ePAL app.
“If you or a colleague are suspicious that the certification you are being shown is anything other than the genuine article, please contact IPAF without delay, either via the www.ipaf.org or via the main telephone number +44 (0)15395 66700.
“If you do come across any instance or attempt to circumvent the robust systems IPAF puts in place to prevent misuse of the PAL Card, or fraudulent activity of any kind in relation to IPAF and its training programme, please gather any evidence you can and contact IPAF immediately, in order for our team to investigate and respond.”
● To quickly and easily verify an IPAF PAL Card visit www.ipaf.org/checkpal or use the IPAF ePAL app. If you have any queries at all in relation to the validity of IPAF’s training certification or suspect fraudulent activity of any kind, please call +44 (0)15395 66700 or visit www.ipaf.org/contact for details of your nearest office or representative.
