A partnership agreement has been signed between the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) and Denmark-based member firm Trackunit to develop and deliver a new digital operator app called ePAL, which will be free to use and will feature a digital IPAF PAL Card, log book, and operator safety guides.

Peter Douglas, CEO and managing director of IPAF said, “Developing this app is a key priority for IPAF and we are excited to team up with Trackunit to bring its considerable technical expertise to bear to roll this out in 2021, delivering a digital solution to connect IPAF and the operator for the first time.

“IPAF’s ePAL will bring benefits for operators and IPAF training centres alike, will allow users to store their digital PAL Card and log book and to help communicate important safety and technical messages direct to the operator.

“The goal is to streamline and digitise our processes, including issuing and renewing IPAF PAL Cards and helping operators keep track of their machine operating experience via the digital logbook function.

“IPAF and Trackunit have a shared aim to be at the forefront in driving change for our industry and we are involving a wide range of stakeholders to drive this change. Together we will ensure IPAF members are fully consulted and are as involved as much as possible, in shaping the future of these technological advancements including the new IPAF ePAL app and its roll-out next year. These are exciting times.”

IPAF plans to launch the app in April 2021, and it will initially be offered in English with other key IPAF languages to follow. It will be available for Apple iOS and Android devices and will be continually updated with additional features added as usage demands and technology allows.

Søren Brogaard, CEO of Trackunit said, “We are delighted to be working with IPAF on this exciting new digital innovation; it will be a real game-changer for the industry, allowing MEWP and MCWP operators to store and share their training accreditation, log equipment usage, gain access to machines and geo-fenced work sites safely and securely, and to obtain important safety and technical information at their fingertips. I am sure the app will be very popular with users and mangers and take-up will be strong.”