Lessons from the Latest IPAF Global Safety Report 2025: How the Access Industry is Reducing Risks

The IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) has released its latest Global Safety Report, offering a clear look at where our industry is making progress, and where there’s still work to do. The findings are a valuable reminder that safety in the access sector depends on more than just equipment quality; it relies on training, awareness, and adapting to real-world job site risks.

Here’s what stood out from this year’s report, and how CPL customers can take these lessons forward.

IPAF shows Construction Still the Highest Risk for MEWP Turnovers

In 2024, construction sites accounted for 60% of all MEWP turnovers recorded globally. These environments often involve uneven terrain, multiple trades working simultaneously, and tight project deadlines, a combination that increases the likelihood of unsafe practices creeping in.

If you’re operating MEWPs in construction:

• Always carry out a thorough pre-use inspection before starting work.
• Use the correct machine for the terrain; swapping a boom lift for a tracked spider lift, for example, can dramatically reduce instability.
• Stick to safe ground load capacities and follow site-specific traffic management plans.

Category B Machines Still See the Most Incidents

Category B MEWPs, generally self-propelled booms and similar equipment, were linked to 40% of all turnover incidents. Their ability to reach further and operate in more complex environments makes them essential for many jobs, but also means there’s greater room for operator error.

Reducing risks with Category B MEWPs means:

• Ensuring operators are IPAF trained and familiarised with that specific machine type.
• Keeping within safe working loads to prevent tip-over.
• Understanding how outreach changes with heavier loads and planning accordingly.

The Positive News From IPAF: Fatalities Are Down

Perhaps the most encouraging finding from the 2024 report is a 56% drop in fatalities compared to the previous year. This is a huge achievement and a sign that ongoing training, better machine design, and greater awareness are paying off.

It’s proof that safety culture works. Every toolbox talk, every refresher course, and every safe operating practice contributes to keeping our teams safe and going home at the end of the day.

The CPL Commitment to Safer Working

At CPL, we believe our role is more than supplying MEWPs — it’s helping our customers work safer, smarter, and with complete confidence in their equipment. That’s why we:

• We are an IPAF Partner, ensuring your fleet meets their standards.
• Provide MEWPs that are fully compliant, manufacturer-approved, and suited to your working environment.
• Support you with LOLER inspections, parts supply, and ongoing maintenance.

📢 Takeaway:

The IPAF Global Safety Report is a reminder that risks in the MEWP industry are real, but preventable. By matching the right equipment to the job, understanding your machine’s limits, and committing to proper training, you can be part of the positive safety trend we’re seeing across the industry.

For expert guidance on choosing the right MEWP, or if you’re uncertain about your needs, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We are ready to assist you and provide the support you need.

Match the Machine to the Mission

Every CPL build is designed with safety, functionality, and compliance at the core, not just marketing figures.

Whether you’re an arborist, telco installer, street lighting contractor or local authority buyer, we’ll help you choose a platform that fits your actual workload and protects your long-term investment.

📞 Ready to talk through your options? Speak to our expert team today for real-world advice and approved build options that won’t let you down.