IPAF supports CIF’s Back to Basics campaign

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) is supporting the Construction Industry Federation’s (CIF) Back to Basics safety campaign.

Running from 13–24 October the campaign encourages those in the Irish construction sector to refocus on the fundamental principles of health and safety.

IPAF supports CIF’s Back to Basics campaign. (Image: IPAF).

The two-week campaign encompasses European Safety Week, taking place 20-24 October, sees IPAF work with contractors across Ireland, carrying out a series of site visits and safety talks aimed at promoting safe work at height using powered access equipment and MEWPs.

The initiative focuses on revisiting essential practices and ensuring that all workers understand and apply the basics of MEWP safety. Key topics include:

• Ground conditions and the importance of correct machine selection
• Pre-use inspections
• Operator and spotter familiarisation
• Safe operation, supervision, and rescue plans

“Safety starts on the ground,” said Damien O’Connor, IPAF’s Irish Country Manager. “Whether operating a MEWP, managing a worksite or supervising teams, attention to the basics can prevent serious injuries and help save lives. The CIF campaign aligns perfectly with IPAF’s mission to promote the safe and effective use of powered access for safe working at height. By working together with the CIF and with the support from our members, we can help reinforce these core safety behaviours, to ensure every worker goes home safely at the end of the day.”

For more information about how IPAF is supporting CIF Construction Safety Week 2025, visit the dedicated Back to Basics campaign page, which has a free downloadable safety leaflet.