This course is designed for anyone responsible for loading or unloading heavy plant machinery, including:

• MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms)

• Dumpers

• Excavators

• Telehandlers, and similar equipment

Candidates must hold a current IPAF PAL Card or valid operator licence for the type of machinery they will be handling.

The IPAF Load and Unload Plus Course offers a range of key benefits, including:

• Enhanced safety awareness when handling and transporting powered access equipment

• Improved skills in proper loading and unloading techniques

• Compliance with legal and industry standards

• Increased confidence in managing machinery safely and efficiently

• Reduced risk of accidents and injuries on-site

• Greater overall efficiency and productivity in logistical operations

This course supports a safer working environment while improving operational performance across plant and powered access activities.

Classroom and practical elements.

The course covers the following key topics:

• Safe loading, unloading, and securing of plant machinery onto suitable transport vehicles using the correct equipment, ensuring readiness for travel on public highways

• Understanding the legal requirements and how to operate in full compliance with current legislation and regulations

• Identifying associated hazards and applying effective control measures to minimise risk and prevent accidents during load/unload operations

These modules ensure participants are equipped with the knowledge and skills to carry out load and unload tasks safely, legally, and efficiently.

The course duration depends on the size of the vehicle used:

• 1 to 2 days for vehicles up to and including 7.5 tonnes

• 1 to 3 days for vehicles over 7.5 tonnes

Participants can tailor their practical training to suit the vehicle they operate:

LOAD (for vehicles up to and including 7,500kg)

• Practical training and assessment involve loading, securing, and unloading at least one plant machine

• Use of a winch is optional

LOAD+ (for vehicles over 7,500kg)

• Practical training and assessment include loading and unloading at least two plant machines

• One machine is unloaded, while the other is repositioned to ensure correct axle load distribution

• Load is then secured for transport and later unloaded

• Use of a winch is mandatory

These options ensure the training is relevant and practical for the specific vehicles and operational requirements of each delegate.

This is classroom and hands on practical based learning.

Participants will be required to complete written tests to confirm understanding of all classroom-based learning. In addition, there will be ongoing monitoring and assessment during the practical elements of the course to ensure skills are applied correctly and safely.

To deliver the IPAF Load and Unload Plus Course, the following facilities are required:

• A classroom equipped for delivering the theory element

• A safe, designated area for practical demonstrations, separated from other vehicle activity

• Access to a typical delivery truck used by the participant or organisation

• Access to site equipment or plant machinery that will be used for loading and unloading practice

These facilities ensure a safe and realistic training environment for both the theoretical and practical components of the course.

All training literature and slide shows will be supplied.

Delegates must hold a valid, in-date IPAF PAL Card, as well as current certification for any additional plant equipment they will be responsible for loading or unloading during the course.

Delegates must bring the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and tools:

• Harness with a restraint lanyard suitable for use in a MEWP (must be in test, with proof of inspection)

• Safety footwear

• Hi-visibility waistcoat or jacket

• Safety goggles or glasses

• Protective gloves

• Warm clothing (practical sessions may be held outdoors)

• In-date lashing straps and restraint chains

• Load height measuring sticks

Bringing the correct PPE and tools is essential for completing the practical elements of the course.

Upon successful completion of the theory test and practical assessment, candidates will receive an IPAF certificate.

For those who already hold a valid IPAF Powered Access Licence (PAL Card), the appropriate category – LOAD or LOAD+ – will be added to their PAL Card, which can be accessed digitally via the IPAF ePAL app.

5 Years

Please check the calendar for details, alternatively please call or email with your enquiry. We can carry this out at your premises if required.

Participants also receive guidance on the correct use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and learn practical techniques to avoid common mistakes during the loading and unloading process. This helps ensure safer, more efficient operations on site.