IPAF Releases New Safety Video, Encourages Industry Input

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has released a new safety video as part of its “Share Your Story” campaign, aimed at improving safety awareness across construction and powered access operations.

The latest video, titled “Pedestrian Control Incident,” is based on a real-life event involving a delivery driver who sustained a fractured ankle while delivering two mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) to a manufacturing facility in England.

According to IPAF, the incident occurred while the operator was maneuvering a scissor lift in pedestrian control mode. The operator did not maintain a safe distance from the machine and became distracted by nearby activity. The reconstruction demonstrates how improved planning and operation could have prevented the incident.

“Pedestrian control mode is typically used where there are specific risks, such as a risk of crushing from overhead obstructions or uneven ground causing a risk of overturning, but in this case, the machine should have been operated from the platform. The operator also did not maintain a safe distance and was distracted by other activity on site.

“This video demonstrates how the task could have been completed differently — and the incident prevented — with more careful planning and operation,” said Brian Parker, head of safety and technical at IPAF.

The “Share Your Story” campaign encourages individuals and companies to share safety experiences, including near-misses, incidents and lessons learned. IPAF said the initiative is designed to promote transparency and support ongoing improvements in workplace safety.

The organization is calling on operators, supervisors, managers and companies across construction and manufacturing to contribute their experiences to help inform future training and safety guidance.