The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has released its 2024 Global Safety Report, marking a significant shift towards a digital-only format. This move reflects IPAF's commitment to both safety and sustainability.

While powered access equipment remains one of the safest methods for working at height, serious injuries and fatalities still occur.  The report, compiled through collaboration with industry stakeholders, delves into the primary causes of such incidents involving MEWPs, mast climbers, and construction hoists.

The digital format enhances accessibility for IPAF's global audience, allowing for easier dissemination of safety insights. This aligns with IPAF's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.  The report itself follows a rigorous production process, ensuring the information is reliable and comprehensive.

The data within the report details industry sectors, incident locations, and machine categories, with a particular focus on major and fatal incidents. While a significant increase in reported incidents since 2012 indicates heightened awareness, it also underscores the need for continued efforts to improve safety standards.

"Despite the incidents we experience," says Alana Paterson, Chair of the IPAF International Safety Committee, "using powered access equipment remains one of the safest methods for working at height."  However, she emphasizes the importance of ongoing vigilance, acknowledging that serious injuries still occur.

The report serves as a testament to the hard work of the IPAF team and industry contributors.  Paterson emphasizes the importance of using this report to educate and promote safety practices, ultimately making powered access operations safer worldwide.

Brian Parker, IPAF Head of Safety and Technical, highlights the new digital format as a significant step forward.  "By embracing a digital-only format," Parker explains, "we are making our valuable safety insights more accessible and aligning with our sustainability goals." He acknowledges the crucial role of continued incident reporting through the IPAF Accident Reporting Portal, expressing gratitude to members and users worldwide.