05.07.2012

HWS opens all-indoor IPAF training centre

Dutch access rental company HWS Verhuur opened its brand new all-indoor training centre yesterday in Noordwijk, which will largely focus on IPAF operator training and certification.
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The IPAF sign is unveiled officially opening the new training centre

HWS was founded as HoogWerkerSpecialist back in 1978, specifically to offer aerial work platforms for rent. The company has grown year on year and now boasts a rental fleet of 900 units.

Early in 2010 the company became a member of IPAF, and not long after applied to become an approved IPAF training centre. It has been offering IPAF training for the PAL card for around 18 months and has already trained several hundred individuals.

With an upward trend in demand for good quality operator training in Holland, it decided that the investment in an all-weather practical training area would help ensure its future growth and avoid disruption due to bad weather – particularly during the winter months.
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HWS owners Toby van de Kooij and Paul van Boven with mounted IPAF safety posters for the walls

HWS joint managing director/owners - Toby van de Kooij and Paul van Boven, said: “Through the years the complexity of aerial work platforms has increased enormously, calling for an increased necessity for training. Safety is also one of our key issues, we will do whatever it takes to make sure that our equipment arrives on the jobsite as safely as can be. In addition to that it is of utmost importance that anyone operating an aerial lift is knowledgeable and experienced. The IPAF training programme offers that guarantee like no other does. We never settle for less, so our decision to offer IPAF training was a conscious and logical choice.”
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The new training centre was 'christened' with a specially decorated Dutch whipped cream cake

The staff and a few guests celebrated the official opening and unveiling of the IPAF sign with a Dutch whipped cream cake duly decorated with an IPAF logo.
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Staff and guests quickly demolish the cake and the indoor centre is open