IPAF Summit informs in Washington

The 2015 IPAF Summit took place in Washington DC, USA, on 26 March, with around 175 conference delegates in attendance.

The one-day conference focused on how new and existing technologies in the access industry will change the face of the market over the next five to 10 years.

The morning session was chaired by Lindsey Anderson, Editor of Access Lift & Handlers. Speakers included Giles Councell, IPAF director of operations, who explained the benefits of the Smart Card and current developments like a smart phone app that will provide operator identification.

Chris Wraith, IPAF technical and safety executive, outlined the challenges posed by the wide ranging regulations and standards worldwide and explained how IPAF can help influence them through its worldwide network. He added, "We are trying to iron out the differences of our standards worldwide. IPAF is a world authority so this is how we can help do it."

Tamlin Roberts, CEO of training development specialist Bolt Learning, explained how eLearning, as well as training in general, should be aimed at the individual's needs and ensure potential operators have fully taken on board the content of that training.

Tony Groat, IPAF North America, outlined the challenges in reducing the fatalities caused by electrocution which is the top killer in the North American AWP sector. OSHA regulations for cranes have already been changed to state operators should be 20 ft away from power lines while working - previously it was 10 ft, which is remains the same for aerial work platforms. Mr Groat says the standard for AWPs should be changed soon.

The afternoon session, chaired by Tim Whiteman, IPAF CEO, was kick-started with a keynote speach by Frank Nerenhausen, president of JLG, who discussed emerging technologies and their potential applications in the access industry in his talk Gimmicks or the Next Reality. Norty Turner, CEO of Riwal, reporte on rental operations in emerging powered access markets.