02.09.2009

Do the test

The International Powered Access Federation challenged aerial work platform operators to “Do the Test” at last weekends Platformers Days.

The ‘Test’ involved a course where platform operators had the chance to demonstrate their skills in doing daily checks, testing all safety systems, putting on personal protective equipment (PPE) and driving the an aerial lift correctly through an obstacle course.

IPAF-certified instructor Wolfgang Klein was on hand to assess the operators and to explain, at the end, what mistakes were made and what the correct procedures should be.

The Test was not all plain sailing and it soon became clear that even seasoned platform operators need training.
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Kran&Bühne’s Rüdiger Kopf takes instructions from Wolfgang Klein at the start of the course.

Vertikal’s Rüdiger Kopf - chief editor of Kran & Bühne – entered and successfully completed the IPAF Test scoring well and doing a good job of driving the machines through the course – according to the judges.

However the overall winner was Harm Wortmann, managing director of Aller-Weser-Technik GmbH, who delivered the best performance over the two days, finishing with just two penalty points.
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IPAF’s Tim Whiteman (L) presents Harm Wortmann with first prize with instructor Wolfgang Klein.

Wortmann received the first prize, a Netbook, from IPAF managing director Tim Whiteman.

Vertikal Comment

The nature of this test really shows how easy it is to take routine checks and safety practices for granted and also how easy it is to get it right when you are aware and properly trained.

Given the success of this event, we are looking to add it as a feature of Vertikal Days in 2010 - June16th/17th.