PASMA's (Prefabricated Access Suppliers & Manufacturers Association) half day classroom based theory course is designed to cover the essential points (current legislation, regulations and guidance) for those working at height. It provides vital information about the use of mobile access towers, plus an insight into the use of all forms of access equipment as represented by the member organisations of the Access Industry Forum (AIF).
This course enables the delegate to effectively comply with their duties under the Work at Height Regulations.
- Introduction
- Aims and objectives
- Competent person
- Legislation
- Work At Height Regulations 2005
- Overview of safe and unsafe working practices - safe places of work, personal fall protection equipment, scaffolds and mobile access towers, MEWPs and suspended platforms, ladders and steps, fragile roofs and other surfaces
- Recognising common unsafe practices/hazards
- Collective fall prevention/protection
- Need For inspection of work equipment
- Falling objects and danger areas
- Industry training bodies
- Written Work at Height Risk Assessment Exercise
- Theoretical Assessment
- AM courses start at 08:30
- PM courses start at 13:00
Those who need a thorough and well-structured introduction to the key safety issues and legal implications of working at height, particularly those who are new to working at height, in any sector.
Since the assembly and use of mobile towers can be physically demanding, users should be physically fit, in good health and should, generally, not have problems with eyesight or hearing, heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, fear of heights / vertigo, giddiness / difficulty with balance, impaired limb function, alcohol or drug dependence or psychiatric illness.
As a company that is committed to providing high quality services to all our clients, we will always aim to make reasonable adjustments ensuring all individuals receive the required help they need. Click here to learn more
Delegates successfully completing the course will receive a Digital PASMA Certification and ID Card (valid for 5 years).
If you would like to purchase a Printed Add-On of your card, this can be purchased here.
PASMA - Work at Height (Novice) Course FAQs.
About PASMA
Q1. What is PASMA training?
Mobile Access towers are portable, prefabricated structures used to safely work at height. PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers' and Manufacturers Association) provides nationally accredited training for mobile access towers. PASMA training aims to help delegates understand safe assembly, use and inspection of these towers, supporting compliance with industry health and safety requirements.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q2. What’s the difference between PASMA, IPAF, and Ladder training?
PASMA, IPAF and Ladder training are all essential Work at Height courses that aims to keep you safe and compliant. They’re widely used across industries such as construction, maintenance, facilities management, manufacturing and more. The key difference lies in the type of equipment covered and the nature of tasks performed.
- PASMA training is for working safely with mobile access towers (scaffold towers). It’s ideal for trades such as electricians or maintenance operatives who need a stable platform for tasks such as installation, inspection or repairs.
- IPAF training covers powered access equipment such as scissor lifts and cherry pickers (also called MEWPs - Mobile Elevated Work Platforms). It’s designed for operatives who need access to varying levels of height frequently, performing tasks such as installing high-level signage, window cleaning, electrical work or rooftop repairs.
- Ladder training is best for short-duration, low risk tasks (typically under 30 minutes) where ladders are appropriate, such as visual inspections, light maintenance or changing bulbs often carried out by operatives or site supervisors.
We also offer an extensive range of Work at Height courses for you to explore, including rooftop safety, rope access, harness awareness and rescue training. If you’d like help choosing the right option, speak to our team via live chat, email training@hss.com or call us on 0345 605 0006.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q3. Is PASMA a legal requirement?
Under the Work at Height Regulations, employers have a legal responsibility to ensure delegates who assemble or use scaffold towers are properly trained and compliant. PASMA certification is widely recognised as the industry standard for demonstrating this compliance and is often a mandatory requirement on construction sites.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q4. Is PASMA training valid internationally?
PASMA certification is UK-based and widely recognised across Europe. However, some countries may require additional country-specific training. Please refer to the PASMA website for additional guidance.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Who Should Attend
Q5. Who is this course for?
The Work at Height (Novice) course is suitable for delegates across a range of sectors, including construction, facilities management, warehousing, manufacturing or any workplace where employees may need to work at height safely. It is an entry level course designed for those new to working at height, and it aims to help delegates understand the risks, regulations, and safe working practices.
Further PASMA training is required to work safely with mobile access towers. Some of our relevant PASMA courses are listed below:
- Low Level Access for Users: Focuses on safely using prefabricated units below 2.5 meters.
- Mobile Access Towers for Users: Aims to help delegates safely assemble, use, inspect and dismantle standard mobile access towers.
- Combined PASMA Course: Combines training on mobile access towers and low-level platforms in one course.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q6. Do I need prior experience?
No prior experience is required.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q7. Are there any age, health or language requirements?
There’s no specific age limit, but employers may set their own guidelines so it’s recommended to consult your employer before enrolling. All delegates must:
- Have a good understanding of spoken and written English. (For additional support, please refer to question 16)
- Be physically fit and able to take part in practical activities
- Inform us before your course if you have any health concerns (e.g, heart conditions, vertigo or impaired mobility)
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q8. What if I’m afraid of working at height?
We understand that working at height can feel daunting. The Work at Height (Novice) course is theory-based and does not involve any climbing or practical use. For subsequent PASMA courses, (e.g. the Mobile Access Towers for Users) we won't force you to climb if you're uncomfortable, however it will be required as part of the practical training.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q9. Do I need to bring anything with me?
Please bring photo ID (passport, driving license, CSCS card) and your own lunch as this is not provided. Complimentary tea and coffee are available and your trainer can suggest nearby dining options if needed.
The Work at Height (Novice) course is theory-based and does not involve practical tower use, so PPE is generally not required.
However, some of our training centres are operational sites, so the following PPE is required to maintain safety on site and access your training room: Safety boots, hard hat, hi-vis vest or jacket, eye protection, protective gloves, long sleeve top, trousers - shorts are not permitted. If you’re unsure whether your training centre requires PPE or need help sourcing it, please call us on 0345 605 0006.
_________________________________________________________________________________
How the Training Works
Q10. How long is the course and what does it cover?
The PASMA Work at Height (Novice) course lasts approximately half a day and is delivered through classroom-based theory learning. The course covers the key principles of working safely at height, including hazard awareness, risk prevention and relevant legislation.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Assessments & Certification
Q11. Is there an assessment?
Yes. The course includes a written multiple-choice assessment to check your understanding of key safety principles, hazard awareness and relevant legislation. There is no practical assessment.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q12. Can I fail the course?
Yes, it is possible to fail the course. Delegates must achieve an 80% pass mark on the written multiple-choice assessment to successfully complete the course.
Your trainer will provide guidance and feedback throughout the session to help you understand the material and give you the best chance of passing.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q13. How long is my PASMA certificate valid for?
Your digital PASMA Photocard and certificate are valid for 5 years. After that, you’ll need to complete a refresher or relevant PASMA course to keep your training up to date.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q14. When and how will I receive my results and certificate?
Delegates who successfully complete both the theory evaluation will receive a digital PASMA PhotoCard and certificate within 28 working days. If you would like to receive a physical printed PASMA Photocard and certificate, they can be purchased here.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q15. What do the Level and Category codes on my PASMA card mean?
Each PASMA card has two codes:
Level code - refers to your role
🔹U = User
🔹I = Instructor
🔹M = Manager
🔹R/S = Professional Tower Rigger / Access Tower Specialist
Category code - refers to the types of towers you’re trained to use
🔹T = Towers for Users
🔹L = Low Level Access
🔹W = Work at Height (Novice)
🔹A5 = Towers on Stairways
🔹A6 = Towers with Cantilevers
🔹A7 = Towers with Bridges
🔹A8 = Linked Towers
🔹A9 = Large Deck Towers
_________________________________________________________________________________
Delegate Support & Accessibility
Q16. What support is available if I have additional needs or require adjustments?
At HSS Training, we are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment. If you feel you’d benefit from additional support, whether you’re neurodivergent, have a disability, a specific learning need or if English isn’t your first language, please refer to our Reasonable Adjustments Guide for more information.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Still Have Questions?
If you need further support please contact us on 0345 605 0006, use our live chat or email training@hss.com.
_________________________________________________________________________________
PASMA's (Prefabricated Access Suppliers & Manufacturers Association) half day classroom based theory course is designed to cover the essential points (current legislation, regulations and guidance) for those working at height. It provides vital information about the use of mobile access towers, plus an insight into the use of all forms of access equipment as represented by the member organisations of the Access Industry Forum (AIF).
This course enables the delegate to effectively comply with their duties under the Work at Height Regulations.
- Introduction
- Aims and objectives
- Competent person
- Legislation
- Work At Height Regulations 2005
- Overview of safe and unsafe working practices - safe places of work, personal fall protection equipment, scaffolds and mobile access towers, MEWPs and suspended platforms, ladders and steps, fragile roofs and other surfaces
- Recognising common unsafe practices/hazards
- Collective fall prevention/protection
- Need For inspection of work equipment
- Falling objects and danger areas
- Industry training bodies
- Written Work at Height Risk Assessment Exercise
- Theoretical Assessment
- AM courses start at 08:30
- PM courses start at 13:00
PASMA - Work at Height (Novice) Course FAQs.
About PASMA
Q1. What is PASMA training?
Mobile Access towers are portable, prefabricated structures used to safely work at height. PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers' and Manufacturers Association) provides nationally accredited training for mobile access towers. PASMA training aims to help delegates understand safe assembly, use and inspection of these towers, supporting compliance with industry health and safety requirements.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q2. What’s the difference between PASMA, IPAF, and Ladder training?
PASMA, IPAF and Ladder training are all essential Work at Height courses that aims to keep you safe and compliant. They’re widely used across industries such as construction, maintenance, facilities management, manufacturing and more. The key difference lies in the type of equipment covered and the nature of tasks performed.
- PASMA training is for working safely with mobile access towers (scaffold towers). It’s ideal for trades such as electricians or maintenance operatives who need a stable platform for tasks such as installation, inspection or repairs.
- IPAF training covers powered access equipment such as scissor lifts and cherry pickers (also called MEWPs - Mobile Elevated Work Platforms). It’s designed for operatives who need access to varying levels of height frequently, performing tasks such as installing high-level signage, window cleaning, electrical work or rooftop repairs.
- Ladder training is best for short-duration, low risk tasks (typically under 30 minutes) where ladders are appropriate, such as visual inspections, light maintenance or changing bulbs often carried out by operatives or site supervisors.
We also offer an extensive range of Work at Height courses for you to explore, including rooftop safety, rope access, harness awareness and rescue training. If you’d like help choosing the right option, speak to our team via live chat, email training@hss.com or call us on 0345 605 0006.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q3. Is PASMA a legal requirement?
Under the Work at Height Regulations, employers have a legal responsibility to ensure delegates who assemble or use scaffold towers are properly trained and compliant. PASMA certification is widely recognised as the industry standard for demonstrating this compliance and is often a mandatory requirement on construction sites.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q4. Is PASMA training valid internationally?
PASMA certification is UK-based and widely recognised across Europe. However, some countries may require additional country-specific training. Please refer to the PASMA website for additional guidance.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Who Should Attend
Q5. Who is this course for?
The Work at Height (Novice) course is suitable for delegates across a range of sectors, including construction, facilities management, warehousing, manufacturing or any workplace where employees may need to work at height safely. It is an entry level course designed for those new to working at height, and it aims to help delegates understand the risks, regulations, and safe working practices.
Further PASMA training is required to work safely with mobile access towers. Some of our relevant PASMA courses are listed below:
- Low Level Access for Users: Focuses on safely using prefabricated units below 2.5 meters.
- Mobile Access Towers for Users: Aims to help delegates safely assemble, use, inspect and dismantle standard mobile access towers.
- Combined PASMA Course: Combines training on mobile access towers and low-level platforms in one course.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q6. Do I need prior experience?
No prior experience is required.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q7. Are there any age, health or language requirements?
There’s no specific age limit, but employers may set their own guidelines so it’s recommended to consult your employer before enrolling. All delegates must:
- Have a good understanding of spoken and written English. (For additional support, please refer to question 16)
- Be physically fit and able to take part in practical activities
- Inform us before your course if you have any health concerns (e.g, heart conditions, vertigo or impaired mobility)
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q8. What if I’m afraid of working at height?
We understand that working at height can feel daunting. The Work at Height (Novice) course is theory-based and does not involve any climbing or practical use. For subsequent PASMA courses, (e.g. the Mobile Access Towers for Users) we won't force you to climb if you're uncomfortable, however it will be required as part of the practical training.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q9. Do I need to bring anything with me?
Please bring photo ID (passport, driving license, CSCS card) and your own lunch as this is not provided. Complimentary tea and coffee are available and your trainer can suggest nearby dining options if needed.
The Work at Height (Novice) course is theory-based and does not involve practical tower use, so PPE is generally not required.
However, some of our training centres are operational sites, so the following PPE is required to maintain safety on site and access your training room: Safety boots, hard hat, hi-vis vest or jacket, eye protection, protective gloves, long sleeve top, trousers - shorts are not permitted. If you’re unsure whether your training centre requires PPE or need help sourcing it, please call us on 0345 605 0006.
_________________________________________________________________________________
How the Training Works
Q10. How long is the course and what does it cover?
The PASMA Work at Height (Novice) course lasts approximately half a day and is delivered through classroom-based theory learning. The course covers the key principles of working safely at height, including hazard awareness, risk prevention and relevant legislation.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Assessments & Certification
Q11. Is there an assessment?
Yes. The course includes a written multiple-choice assessment to check your understanding of key safety principles, hazard awareness and relevant legislation. There is no practical assessment.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q12. Can I fail the course?
Yes, it is possible to fail the course. Delegates must achieve an 80% pass mark on the written multiple-choice assessment to successfully complete the course.
Your trainer will provide guidance and feedback throughout the session to help you understand the material and give you the best chance of passing.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q13. How long is my PASMA certificate valid for?
Your digital PASMA Photocard and certificate are valid for 5 years. After that, you’ll need to complete a refresher or relevant PASMA course to keep your training up to date.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q14. When and how will I receive my results and certificate?
Delegates who successfully complete both the theory evaluation will receive a digital PASMA PhotoCard and certificate within 28 working days. If you would like to receive a physical printed PASMA Photocard and certificate, they can be purchased here.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Q15. What do the Level and Category codes on my PASMA card mean?
Each PASMA card has two codes:
Level code - refers to your role
🔹U = User
🔹I = Instructor
🔹M = Manager
🔹R/S = Professional Tower Rigger / Access Tower Specialist
Category code - refers to the types of towers you’re trained to use
🔹T = Towers for Users
🔹L = Low Level Access
🔹W = Work at Height (Novice)
🔹A5 = Towers on Stairways
🔹A6 = Towers with Cantilevers
🔹A7 = Towers with Bridges
🔹A8 = Linked Towers
🔹A9 = Large Deck Towers
_________________________________________________________________________________
Delegate Support & Accessibility
Q16. What support is available if I have additional needs or require adjustments?
At HSS Training, we are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment. If you feel you’d benefit from additional support, whether you’re neurodivergent, have a disability, a specific learning need or if English isn’t your first language, please refer to our Reasonable Adjustments Guide for more information.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Still Have Questions?
If you need further support please contact us on 0345 605 0006, use our live chat or email training@hss.com.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Those who need a thorough and well-structured introduction to the key safety issues and legal implications of working at height, particularly those who are new to working at height, in any sector.
Since the assembly and use of mobile towers can be physically demanding, users should be physically fit, in good health and should, generally, not have problems with eyesight or hearing, heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, fear of heights / vertigo, giddiness / difficulty with balance, impaired limb function, alcohol or drug dependence or psychiatric illness.
As a company that is committed to providing high quality services to all our clients, we will always aim to make reasonable adjustments ensuring all individuals receive the required help they need. Click here to learn more
Delegates successfully completing the course will receive a Digital PASMA Certification and ID Card (valid for 5 years).
If you would like to purchase a Printed Add-On of your card, this can be purchased here.
Want to train at your premises?
This course can be delivered as a dedicated course at your premises / site.
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