THE winners of the 2026 International Awards for Powered Access (IAPAs) have been announced at a ceremony in Istanbul.
The event, organised by the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) and Rental & Access International, celebrates the companies, products and individuals helping to drive standards, innovation and safety across the global powered access industry.
This year’s awards attracted more than 140 entries from around the world, with the 13 categories recognising achievements spanning product development, sustainability, safety, digital transformation, training excellence, and equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
The Access Rental Company of the Year category was won by Manlift Middle East after judges were impressed by the firm’s strong safety, health, environment and quality culture, as well as its commercial curriculum initiative, skills matrix tool, and continued development of its digital marketing presence.
The Kevin O’Shea Contribution to Safe Working at Height Award went to Vietnam Rental for its Safety Ecosystem, which focuses on three key pillars: competent people, safe equipment and controlled working environments, supported by a range of initiatives designed to strengthen safety across the business.
Trackunit and Sunbelt Rentals UK & Ireland picked up the Digital Development Award for their joint programme to improve the management, support and servicing of aerial platforms, using data and greater visibility to help make every rental experience smoother and more reliable.
The Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Award was won by İstanbul Vinç in honour of a commitment to creating an inclusive company culture, with a range of initiatives designed to bring employees together and embed EDI across the organisation.
The IAPA Innovative Technology Award category was won by JLG/Power Towers for its LiftPod innovation. The solution combines a patented self-powered lifting mechanism and foldable structure, enabling fast deployment, compact storage and easy manoeuvrability.
Clem Jacob Hire triumphed in the Sustainability Award category for its efforts to reduce environmental impact across its rental and training operations. A series of projects are said to have resulted in significant changes across the business as part of its wider sustainability transformation.
The Product of the Year – Mast Climbing Work Platforms/Hoists category was won by Alimak for its Scando 650a 40-46 S. Judges highlighted the hoist’s lightweight car design, increased payload and new C-door, alongside lower overall energy consumption, a new lift control system and optimised driving modes.
The Product of the Year – Scissor Lifts & Vertical Masts prize went to Genie for its GS Slab Scissor Lift Next-Generation. Judges praised the new curved linkage scissor stack and a range of other design improvements developed to eliminate rust, limit damage and reduce wear and tear.
Platform Basket picked up the Product of the Year – Self-Propelled Booms & Atrium Lifts accolade for its Spider 54T. Offering a 54-metre working height and up to 21 metres of outreach, the machine remains narrow and easy to transport.
Palfinger Platforms triumphed in the Product of the Year – Vehicle/Trailer Mounted Platforms category for its PT 25 TJ. Part of Palfinger’s new TEC range, the PT 25 TJ was praised for its high payload capacity without the use of stabilisers, helping to make electric vehicle-mounted platforms an increasingly practical proposition.
The IPAF Training Centre of the Year award went to Standard Arabia Inspection. The firm has reported 47% year-on-year growth in certified operators and played a leading role in Saudi Arabia’s largest-ever MEWP awareness initiative.
Debbie Forbes from HSS Training was named IPAF Training Instructor of the Year for her dedication to championing high standards, nurturing diverse talent and driving a safer, more inclusive industry.
Cristian Nacht was the recipient of the IPAF/Rental & Access International Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to the development of the powered access industry in Brazil. Through his leadership at Mills, he pioneered the introduction of MEWPs to the Brazilian market, helping to improve safety, productivity, and professional standards across the sector.
Peter Douglas, CEO & MD of IPAF, said, “I’d like to say a huge congratulations to all our finalists and winners. The outstanding quality of this year’s entries is a real reflection of the energy, innovation and commitment within our industry. The IAPAs are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the people, products and ideas that are helping to shape a safer, more sustainable and successful future for powered access. We’ve seen some truly inspiring achievements this year, and I’m already looking forward to seeing what the industry brings to the 2027 awards. I’m sure next year will be bigger, more ambitious and just as exciting.”
