IPAF Conference Examines Jobsite Safety and Workforce Practices

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) brought together 120 professionals from across North America's powered access industry for its Working at Height Conference & Awards 2026, held October 28 to 29 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld in Florida.

Attendees represented construction, equipment rental, manufacturing, technology, and safety management. Discussions focused on jobsite hazard recognition, workforce engagement, data-driven safety decisions, and consistent safe-use practices for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs).

A recurring theme was the need to make safety a shared responsibility throughout an organization rather than treating it solely as a compliance requirement.

Peter Douglas, IPAF's CEO, said: “It was fantastic to bring together so many people from across the powered access industry in North America to share experiences, challenge thinking and explore how we can continue to improve safety. The discussions throughout the conference highlighted that, while technology, equipment and standards are important, it is ultimately people, leadership and a shared commitment to doing things safely that make the difference.

“This event is the third of its kind in North America, giving us the opportunity to learn from one another, build stronger industry relationships and take away ideas that can make a real difference in the workplace. Congratulations to all our award winners and finalists, whose achievements demonstrate the innovation, dedication and commitment that continue to move our industry forward.”

Several presentations addressed how companies can translate safety policies into daily work practices.

Drew Gaskins, safety director at Gilbane Building Company, presented on Recognize, Respond and Respect. Drawing on his construction experience, he discussed hazard recognition and decision-making, including how respect for people, equipment, and working-at-height risks can contribute to safer outcomes.

Steve Hawkins, chief operating officer at FDR Safety LLC, discussed how organizations can move from a "have to" safety culture to a "want to" culture by encouraging employees to take greater ownership of safe work practices.

Cris Shell and Jason Brewer of AT&T examined how companies can implement consistent MEWP safety programs. Their presentation addressed the responsibilities of managers, supervisors, operators, and trainers in putting company policies into practice.

Technology and data were also major topics. Presentations explored how equipment information, fleet data, and predictive safety models can help businesses identify potential risks and make more informed decisions.

Federico Rio, senior vice president of product and pricing at Trackunit, discussed how equipment usage information, access data, and pre-use checks can support everyday safety practices.

David Swan of Geotab examined the use of fleet data and predictive safety models to identify emerging risks. His presentation included real-world case studies focused on visibility and accountability in fleet operations.

IPAF's Global Safety Report 2026 also informed the discussions. The report identifies electrical hazards as the leading reported cause of fatal and major incidents involving powered access in North America in 2025. The finding highlights the importance of hazard awareness, risk assessment, and consistent safe-use practices.

The conference also addressed market conditions and regulatory developments affecting the powered access industry.

Nicole McGregor, managing principal at Ducker Carlisle, presented an overview of the North American MEWP rental market, including recent trends, anticipated activity, and key growth drivers.

Tony Groat, IPAF's North America regional manager, provided updates on developments across ANSI/SAIA A92, CSA B354, and ISO standards.

IPAF representatives Peter Douglas, Giles Councell, and Don Satterfield shared updates on the federation's global activities, plans for the North American Regional Council, and ongoing safety campaigns.

Randy Marzicola, IPAF's vice president, North America, said: “Working at Height Conference & Awards demonstrates the power of bringing our industry together around a shared commitment to safety. Our opportunity now is to turn these insights into action by strengthening partnerships, expanding awareness, and accelerating the adoption of safer working practices across North America. The engagement and leadership demonstrated in Orlando provide a strong foundation for the work ahead.”

The North American Regional Council works with manufacturers, rental companies, contractors, and safety professionals to apply industry insights, safety data, and standards to jobsite practices.

The conference concluded with the Working at Height Awards 2026, recognizing companies, products, and individuals for contributions to safety, innovation, and leadership.

Award recipients included:

• DICA: Safety Innovation – OEM/Supplier for its LevelRight Adjustable Outrigger Pads
• National Lift Truck: Safety and Culture Leadership Excellence – Rental Industry
• Skyjack: Technology Innovation for SKYPROTECT and SKYPROTECT+, and New Product Award – Boom Lifts for the SJ45 AJN and SJ45 ARJN battery-powered electric slab booms
• Haulotte: New Product Award – Scissor Lifts for the HS6395 E PRO
• Palazzani: New Product Award – Atrium/Compact Crawlers for the XTJ 170+ ECO
• Bart Krzysztofek: IPAF Person of the Year for contributions to standards development, best-practice guidance, education, and the IPAF North America Regional Council
• Mastclimber LLC: IPAF North America Member of the Year for longstanding support of IPAF activities and commitment to training and industry collaboration

IPAF said it will continue working with industry partners on safety awareness, training, standards adoption, and engagement among manufacturers, rental companies, contractors, and equipment end users.

More information about the conference is available at the Working at Height Conference & Awards website. IPAF's 2026 awards winners announcement and Global Safety Report are also available online.