CUMBRIA, U.K. — The International Powered Access Federation is holding its first-ever national event in the United States focusing on current issues in the aerial lift and mast-climbing work platform industry on Nov. 1-2, in Chicago. The theme is “Powered Access: Recognition and Avoidance of Hazards.” This is a member event, but is also open to non-members.

Key industry speakers will present on a range of current topics, from the recognition and avoidance of hazards and employer responsibility, to updates on IPAF activities and recent research data, and what is happening in the Latin American market.

The two-day event opens at noon with lunch on Nov. 1, includes a networking reception, followed by dinner that same evening, and ends at noon on Nov. 2.

Topics include:

• Accidents Do Occur: Learn to Fly
• Accident Research: Recognize and Prevent Hazards
• Overview of Industry Guidance and Best Practice, including OSHA Letters of Interpretation
• Employer Responsibilities: Training, Familiarization, Inspections, Monitoring, Warnings
• Who is a Qualified Instructor?
• State of the Rental Market
• Planning for AWP Use: Risk Assessment
• Pre-Start Inspections
• Adequate Ground Support

The registration fee is $120 per delegate for IPAF members and $160 per delegate for non-members. The fee includes lunch, reception and dinner on day one, all breaks and breakfast on day two.

AWP operator and instructor training, AWPs for managers, and MCWP operator training will be held during that week. For more details, visit www.awpt.org.

IPAF is a not-for-profit members' organization that promotes the safe and effective use of powered access equipment worldwide. Members include rental companies, manufacturers, distributors and equipment owners.