Training Takes Front Seat at BAUMA

May 5, 2004- The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) and its U.S. counterpart Aerial Work Platform Training (AWPT) made training a top priority at last month's BAUMA exhibition in Germany.

Under the slogan, "Aerial Platforms + Trained Operators = Safe, Effective Work at Height," IPAF members demonstrated various types of aerial lift equipment. As many as 30 different types of machines from manufacturers around the world were demonstrated daily. The demonstration area was the single largest display associated with the aerial platform industry.

During the show, IPAF hosted an international working group brought together to examine the use of integrated baskets on telescopic handlers. The meeting was attended by representatives from Caterpillar, JLG, Manitou, among others.

AWPT, Rouzerville , Pa. , is a wholly owned subsidiary of IPAF. Launched late last year, it is the organization's first training center in North America . The AWPT program, led by long-time industry safety veteran Dennis Eckstine, is tailored to meet the specific needs of State and Federal requirements including ANSI and OSHA.