
About the course
Loading, transportation, and unloading of plant machinery are vital logistical activities across many industries including powered access and construction. However, analysis of accident data reveals this activity is one of the leading causes of accidents and injuries. The course examines how these accidents occur and critically, how to prevent them to ensure safe and effective best practice.
The course incorporates a highly interactive theory module with a test, and a practical module with assessment of candidates’ hands-on skills.

QUALIFICATION
Upon successful completion of the theory test and practical assessment, candidates receive an IPAF certificate. Those who hold a valid Powered Access Licence (PAL Card) can have LOAD or LOAD+ added to their card – accessed via the IPAF ePAL app.
WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE?
Anyone who will be loading or unloading heavy plant machinery including MEWPS, dumpers, excavators, telehandlers etc. Candidates must hold a current PAL Card or operator licence.
HOW LONG IS THE COURSE?
One to two days for vehicles up to and including 7.5 tonnes. One to three days for vehicles over 7.5 tonnes.
YOU WILL LEARN
- To safely load, unload, and secure plant machinery onto a suitable vehicle using appropriate equipment ready for transportation on a public highway
- What the legal requirements are and how to work in accordance to these
- To identify associated hazards and apply effective control measures to prevent accidents
CHOOSE FROM TWO PRACTICAL MODULES
Tailor your practical training to the vehicle size you need to use:
- LOAD (for vehicles up to and including 7,500kg) or
- LOAD+ (for vehicles over 7,500kg)

For the LOAD practical training module and assessment, candidates will learn to load, secure, and unload a minimum of one plant machine, with a winch being optional.
For the LOAD+ practical module and assessment, candidates will learn to load and unload a minimum of two plant machines. One is unloaded and the remaining is moved, to ensure load distribution does not exceed any axle. This is then secured for transport, and later unloaded. A winch is mandatory.
Course requirements
PLEASE NOTE THAT CARDS AND CERTIFICATES ARE NO LONGER AUTOMATICALLY ISSUED BY IPAF.
You will receive an e-cert and a digital copy of your card on the epal app.
If you require physical copies you need to let us know and an additional charge of £15 for the registration and posting is required per delegate. If the course has finished, then the cost will be as per replacement card/certificate.
PPE
Hard hat, Hi Vis jacket etc, harness (we have some available for use) Safety footwear. Warm/wet weather clothing as required.
IF CANDIDATES DO NOT BRING THEIR SAFETY FOOTWEAR WHEN ATTENDING IPAF COURSES THEY WILL BE EXCLUDED FROM THE PRACTICAL and will need to return at a further cost.
Upcoming dates
No public dates are scheduled right now. Call us or send an enquiry and we'll arrange one — including on-site at your premises.
