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The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has announced the launch of its new ePAL app. After consultation with its membership, who have been involved in the process, the app is set to launch in the UK and Ireland this May. This free to use app will replace the credit card style Powered Access Licence (PAL) currently issued by IPAF, increasing sustainability, engagement, and efficiency while preventing license misuse.
In 2020, IPAF had issued 2 million PAL cards globally to mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) and mast climbing work platform (MCWP) operators since the cards launched in 1998. Each time a qualification is added or training is renewed, these cards must be reissued, produced, and shipped. Going digital and shifting away from paper and plastic cards mean better sustainability, which IPAF identifies as a key building block to recovery from Covid.
PAL cards were already smart technology-enabled, featuring CSCS holographic logos, which was mandated in 2015. The Smart technology allows cardholders to identify themselves as authorised and qualified to security, telematics, and machine tracking systems.
The move to an app is the “natural evolution” of the PAL card, according to Peter Douglas, IPAF CEO & MD. The app will allow operators to produce their certifications in a way similar to how they may store a boarding pass or credit card on their phone.
Licence misuse and fraud have long been a concern for the PAL card system. Douglas notes, “IPAF works hard to safeguard its training programme against misuse and thwart any attempt to copy, counterfeit or fraudulently obtain a PAL Card.” Since 2011 construction managers have been able to check the validity of a PAL card online at www.ipaf.org/checkpal to crack down on fraud. This was in response to fraudulent cards found in workplaces, despite measures such as photographs, signatures, and holographic logos on the card. The new ePAL app will make it practically impossible for fraudsters to misrepresent themselves as qualified operators.
The app also includes an operator logbook and will replace the printed operator safety guides. This allows operators and construction managers to access the latest safety information quickly and easily from their device. The digital logbook will phase out paper versions, allowing operators to track their experience on machines. Operator qualification and experience can easily be shared directly from the app.
Ultimately, the goal of the app is to increase safety. “The introduction of ePAL and digital PAL Cards is another great integration of digital technology welcomed by VINCI Construction UK. As we embrace more digital technologies, we become many things; more sustainable; better connected, more engaging and ultimately, efficient.” Construction managers will be able to see at a glance that their operators are qualified for the machinery they are operating.
The new app will launch for Apple iOS and Android devices this May in the UK and Ireland, offered in English first, followed by other languages.
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