IPAF HARNESS AWARENESS (HA)
IPAF Harness courses are designed to give participants essential knowledge and practical experience in the correct use of harness systems for working at height. These three half-day programmes cover key topics such as:
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The different types of harnesses and their components
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The importance of correct fit and adjustment
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Legal responsibilities and safety requirements
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Risk assessment and best practices for safe working environments
Participants gain hands-on experience in fitting, adjusting, and inspecting harnesses, helping to ensure they are equipped with the skills to work safely and confidently at height.
According to IPAF data, falls from the platform are one of the leading causes of injury or fatality when using MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms). A strong awareness of how to correctly use a harness is therefore critical to safe operation, especially when using boom-type MEWPs.
To meet the needs of different roles and responsibilities, IPAF offers three dedicated harness courses:
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Harness Awareness (HA) – Theory-based overview for those who need to understand harness use
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Harness User (HU) – Practical course for those who wear and use harnesses
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Harness Inspector (HI) – For individuals responsible for inspecting PFPE (Personal Fall Protection Equipment)
Target Audience
IPAF offers three structured harness training courses to suit different roles and responsibilities in the workplace:
???? Harness Awareness (HA) Course
Designed for individuals who do not need to personally use or wear a harness, but require a solid understanding of harness safety.
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Covers theory training and a short test
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Can be completed remotely via eLearning or in person at an IPAF training centre
Ideal for:
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Managers
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Planners
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Safety professionals
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Supervisors
???? Harness User (HU) Course
For individuals who will wear and use a harness during their work.
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Requires completion of the HA Course beforehand
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Includes a practical assessment at an IPAF training centre
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Can be incorporated into a MEWP Operator Course for convenience
Ideal for:
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MEWP operators
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Site workers using boom-type access platforms
???? Harness Inspector (HI) Course
For individuals responsible for inspecting Personal Fall Protection Equipment (PFPE) and maintaining legal inspection records.
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Requires completion of both the HA and HU Courses
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Delivered in person at an IPAF training centre
Ideal for:
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Company safety officers
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Designated PFPE inspectors
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Personnel responsible for compliance and record-keeping
Benefit Of The Course
Benefits of the IPAF Harness Awareness (HA) Course
The IPAF Harness Awareness Course provides several key benefits, including:
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Enhanced safety knowledge for working at height
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Understanding of legal and regulatory requirements related to harness use
These benefits support a safer working environment and help reduce the risk of falls and other height-related accidents.
Course Type
The Harness Awareness Course (HA) is recommended to be completed via eLearning and must be successfully finished before attending the Harness User Course (HU).
Duration
The IPAF Harness Awareness Course can be completed either online via eLearning or in person at one of our training centres. It is a half-day course designed to deliver essential theoretical training on harness safety.
Format
The IPAF Harness Awareness Course can be completed either online via eLearning or in person at one of our training centres. It is a half-day course designed to deliver essential theoretical training on harness safety.
Assessment
At the end of the IPAF Harness Awareness (HA) Course, participants must complete a test or assessment to evaluate their understanding of the course content. Successful completion of this assessment is required to receive the official course certification.
Facilities used
If you attend a classroom session, all necessary materials will be provided for you to complete the course.
If you choose the online eLearning option, you’ll need access to a laptop or tablet, along with a quiet, distraction-free environment to complete the training effectively.
Materials Provided
Participants of the IPAF Harness User Course are typically provided with a range of training materials, including:
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Participant handbooks
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Presentations and visual aids
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Safety equipment samples for demonstration and practice
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Access to online resources or learning modules (where applicable)
These materials are designed to support both the theoretical and practical elements of the course.
Entry Requirements
To attend the IPAF Harness Awareness Course, participants are typically expected to meet the following criteria:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Have a basic understanding of health and safety practices
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Possess a good level of English reading and writing
These requirements help ensure all participants can safely and effectively engage with the course content.
Equipment Needed
No equipment is needed for this course.
Certification Validity
This certificate is valid for 5 years
Certification Awarded
Upon successful completion of the IPAF Harness Awareness (HA) Course, you will receive an eCertificate, which will be automatically uploaded to your IPAF ePAL app for easy access and verification.
Additional Note
Please see IPAF downloads regarding the safe use of harnesses.
Availability
Please check the calendar for details, alternatively please call or email with your enquiry. We can carry this out at your premises if required.
Choose Your Date and Book Below:
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12 | 13£65 | 14£65 | 15£65 | 16£65 | 17£65 | 18£65 |
19£65 | 20£65 | 21£65 | 22£65 | 23£65 | 24£65 | 25£65 |
26£65 | 27£65 | 28£65 | 29£65 | 30£65 | 31£65 |
 Once you have completed the above, we will contact you to confirm your chosen date and exchange any additional details required.