IAPA Shortlist - entries summarised
27 January 2025
Accessbriefing brings to you a summary of each shortlisted entry for the 2025 International Awards for Powered Access (IAPAs).

With more than 140 entries for the 2025 edition, almost a record, the IAPAs has established itself as one of world’s most anticipated access industry events.
Taking place in Dublin on 13 March, the ceremony celebrates excellence and best practice in the access sector and is organised by Access International and IPAF.
There are 13 award categories ranging from new products and innovations to sustainability and safety, alongside equality and diversity in the workplace.
The IAPA ceremony takes place on the same day as the IPAF Summit, offering top level presentations and topical industry discussion, along with outstanding networking opportunities across both events.
The organisers would like to thank the independent judging panel of five longstanding industry experts for all their efforts in considering all the entries.
Access Rental Company of the Year
GTAccess
With strategically located depts across the UK, the company has a growing delivery fleet, extensive training covering 15,000 individuals, the latest models from 16 manufacturers, with the new GTA customer live telematics, invoicing and certification portal, as well as major investment on sustainability.
KDM Hire
The company focuses on continuous improvement with IT being central. A new initiative Equip Fleet is being introduced to offer fixed-price contract hire tailored to industries outside of construction. The API Apps improve tracking of deliveries and management of equipment in the yards. Workshop workflows have also been upgraded.
Mills
Among other initiatives, TransFormar offers technical and professional scholarships to vulnerable young people, while the Contract and Lease Panel (PCL) greatly improves efficiency. It has also received B Corp certification for social and environmental responsibility and seen significant increases training participants.
Sunbelt Rentals UK
The Powered Access division has increased revenue by over 18%, while customer satisfaction levels have increased from 4.56 to 4.64 at the division. Over 60% of Powered Access machines in the fleet are electric or hybrid. The company has also received its 13th consecutive RoSPA Gold Award in recognition of our commitment to safety.
Contribution to Safe Working at Height
Electroelsa - Integrated Bolts Presence Detector
The company’s device that detects the accidental absence of bolts on mast sections during the various assembly phases of hoists, is being integrated into all new transport platforms in 2025. The company also organizes training courses in its factory on the practical aspects of assembly/disassembly and maintenance.
Nationwide Platforms - Hinkley Point C
The nuclear power station build is the largest construction site in Europe. Its owners EDF insists on a minimum safety standards including all MEWPs. The are: every MEWP to have Trackunit telematics, carry secondary guarding, switch from lithium-ion to absorbent glass mat (AGM) batteries, and to be less than five years old, among others.
Niftylift - Safety technologies
Range of initiatives include SiOPS secondary guarding, which instantly halts machine movement if pressure is detected on the control panel. The ToughCage platform is built from impact-resistant composite materials, offering robust protection. Niftylift ClipOn reminds operators to attach their harnesses before use, while NiftyPRO delivers accessible training and support.
Rapid Access - Stop Work Authority (SWA)
This safety program empowers employees to take immediate and decisive action when encountering unsafe conditions. A key feature sees an SWA card issued to all employees. Serving as a visible reminder they can be shown to customers and site personnel, demonstrating their right to inform or stop unsafe work.
Sunbelt Rentals UK - Safety initiatives
The company has invested £3m in innovations to improve height safety such as secondary guarding, ‘harness on’ devices and EQSS OverWatch. Customer are engaged through events such as safety demonstration days and the delivery of two Safety Weeks with over 4,400 employees to promote safe working practices.
The Sustainability Award
IPAF MEMBER ONLY CATEGORIES IPAF Training Centre of the Year
IPAF Training Instructor of the Year
|
Aver Asia - 3 pronged approach
The rental company’s three initiatives include New Partner, New Energy partnership with Hong Kong-based Ampd Energy to replace diesel generators with a next-generation alternative. Its Renewable Energy plan sees renewable energy powering its office and plant operations, while the company actively promotes electric and hybrid equipment.
Dingli - Sustainable development strategy
The company’s Green factory park covers 190,000 square meters with natural light, roof gardens, heat energy recovery, rainwater recovery and insulated walls. The park uses digitalization for automated blanking, welding, machining, spraying, final assembly, to produce an extensive range of environmentally friendly products.
Mills - B Corp certification
The first company in the Brazil rental sector to be certified as a B Corp. Its high standards of social and environmental responsibility, and its energy transition has enabled 40% of branches to operate on 100% clean and renewable energy. The implementation of circularity practices led to over 1,000 batteries being recycled, as an example.
Tecnogera - Battery reuse
As Brazil’s first company to operate a fleet entirely powered by lithium batteries, the Second-Life Battery Repurposing project uniquely addresses battery end-of-life management by repurposing used lithium batteries as stationary energy storage units. This extends battery life, reduces waste, and offers an alternative to fossil fuel generators.
Digital Development Award
AFI Rentals - Resource planner
Transformative digital project aimed at automating labour and asset allocation for truck mounted platforms and spiders using a dynamic, real-time calculation engine to optimises route planning, operator assignments, and resource management. The Minimum Viable Product (MVP) feature allows improvement of the system based on feedback.
Capja – CapjaDocs
CapjaDocs functions like an intuitive, QR-integrated Dropbox for plant-hire companies. The aim is to empower smaller companies with easy-to-use, affordable digital tools. The FlexiQR allows users to link a QR code to a file, folder, or website, with the flexibility to update or change the link at any time. The eForm feature is a drag-and-drop form builder designed to replace paper forms and link them directly to QR codes.
PartnerLift – MIRA
Not just a rental software for dispatching access equipment, MIRA is a comprehensive solution for scheduling, integrated damage documentation, full equipment history, machine management, and rental fleet oversight. The sole purpose is to empower rental companies partly by reducing complexity across day-to-day tasks.
Sunbelt Rentals – Apps
A new Asset Quality Check App for powered access performs internal quality audits online to enhance safety and reduce downtime. The updated Observations App records near misses and good practice, while the BIM service has been introduced, and the National Uptime Centre manages fleet and enhances customer experience.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI)
Ammec Comercial
Mexican working at height specialist supports vulnerable individuals and those in the process of social reintegration. In partnership with relevant organisations the company helps migrants develop skills to obtain employment in any country they settle in and those leaving the criminal justice system in Mexico City in the use of MEWPs.
Dayim Equipment Rental
Saudi Arabian rental company has pioneered training programs for Saudi women through strategic customer partnerships and advocates women’s empowerment. It also implemented a number of HR policies to allow females and single mothers to get back into the workforce and provides equal opportunities for colleagues with special needs.
Mills
Brazilian renter introduced the connect program with customers and suppliers to encourage diversity. It promotes gender diversity in traditionally male activities through specific classes for women and was recognised for the second year in the IDIVERSA index, with 26% of workers being women and 33% black people.
IAPA Innovative Technology Prize
Modern Access & Scaffolding - sMart Xensor
Utilizing dual ultrasonic sensors and advanced algorithms, sMart Xensor detects overhead hazards, even in low-light, dusty, or foggy conditions where vision-based systems falter. A wireless communication system eliminates cable clutter and a mobile app enables optimal customization for varying job site requirements.
Niftylift – ClipOn
A simple and retrofittable safety device that provides operators with a visual and audible reminder to ‘clip on’ their harnesses. Provides ground personnel with a clear visual confirmation of compliance via under-cage LEDs. Among first OEM-integrated harness detection solutions in existing harness point through innovative software.
Ruthmann - T 1000 HF
The world’s first truck mounted platform capable of reaching 100m working height, featuring a groundbreaking outreach of 39m. It combines advanced engineering with innovative safety systems to deliver unprecedented performance and enhanced safety for operators working at extreme heights.
Tecnogera – Batmov
Reuses lithium batteries from aerial platforms, repurposing them for sustainable energy storage applications. When a battery’s primary life cycle for traction ends, it remains highly effective in energy storage. The initial pilot, featuring a 96kWh storage capacity, already replaces diesel generators for several clients.
Zoomlion - ZT51JEH
The world’s highest electric boom lift, with a maximum operating height of 50.6m, a maximum outreach of 25m, and dual rated load of 300/454kg, the ZT51JEH provides sufficient working time for electric machines and a new solution for silent indoor jobs. It reduces energy consumption and emissions through design and technical optimization.
Product of the Year - Mast climbers/Hoists
Electroelsa – Elsa PM-M56 Full System
Available with 10 different configurations (dimensions) of the cage, from 2.10m x 3.20m to 4.70 m x 6.50m, it is a lifting giant, providing customers with a solution for every space and capacity requirement. The dual lifting speed allows for 12m/min if transporting people, and 24m/min for materials only.
Geda - ZZP F
Hoist can operate without the need for anchoring and lifts materials and personnel up to 12m without time-consuming setup. It has a high load capacity of 1300kg and dual lifting speeds at 24m/min for materials and 12m/min as a transport platform. The system’s quick setup and flexibility make it a time-saving solution.
Maber Hoist - MBC50
This modular transport platform/material hoist designed for rental companies can be easily installed in single or twin mast configuration with modular length from 3.2m to 6.4m. Highly programmable, the hoist knows where the call is coming from and which direction of run. The call box is also wire free.
Product of the Year – Scissor Lifts & Vertical Masts
Easy Lift - EASYBB001
A large-scale pantograph platform designed to revolutionize railway maintenance globally. This battery-powered scissor is equipped with autonomous driving based on position sensors, radar, and position encoders – similar to driverless cars. The 24V battery-powered electric drive provides eight-hours of work, charged via external column.
Haulotte - HS18 E MAX
The model stands out with its ability to drive at full height, reaching up to 18 meters, reducing the need to manoeuvre up and down. Operators can perform tasks more quickly and efficiently, making it ideal for linear indoor and outdoor projects. The scissor lift delivers the same drive performance as a diesel machine.
MEC - 3232SE
A slim scissor lift that offers driving at full height has allowed a quantum leap in productivity, says MEC. Previously only 26ft platform height machines had been able to drive at full height without the use of outriggers. The challenge was to design the chassis such that it had the stability to drive at full height allowing unhindered access to all the components.
Skyjack - SJ3219 Micro
The unit features quiet and swift electric drive. Fully proportional drive and lift controls offer superior drive with more efficiency, controllability and improved torque, while variable speed brushless AC electric front wheel drive provides exceptional duty cycles. With over 25% gradeability climbing loading ramps is easy and E-Drive allows more for less.
Product of the Year – Self Propelled Booms & Atrium Lifts
Dingli - BA44ERT
As an articulated boom, the BA44ERT has outstanding reach. Maximum horizontal reach is 22.97m, maximum up and over height is 18.8m, and below ground reach is 9.65m. It is equipped with 358V200Ah vehicle-grade high-voltage batteries for EVs and adopts CTP large modular design, greatly reducing the number of modules.
Haulotte - HA16 E (and E PRO)
The 2-in-1 machine electric articulating machine offers several charging solutions: main plug, three-phase outlet accelerated charger, or charging with the range extender - a removable generator solution that recharges the HA16 E batteries to 80% in three hours. The range extender is 100% interchangeable with tother Pulseo models.
Leguan Lifts - Leguan 265
The world’s fastest 27m spider lift, taking just 1 minute 35 seconds to fully extend the booms to maximum working height - 2 to 4 times faster than other lifts in its class. The secret lies in the Leguan EDX (Efficiency-Driven Experience) operating system ensuring that hydraulic flow is distributed precisely between all boom functions.
Niftylift – HeightRider 22 SE
The model redefines the balance between compactness, performance, and environmental responsibility with unprecedented compactness with a tail swing of just 0.55m, and a low weight of 9,980kg, the HR22 SE is the lightest in its class. Horizontal outreach is 18.77m, combined with the multi-variable optimisation software.
Skyjack - SJ60 AJE +
Boasting exceptional duty cycle performance, capable of more than a full day’s use, an additional 30 minutes of reserve allows this electric boom to travel stowed to a charging point. The boom offers capacities up to 454kg and high-performance AC technology to optimize current torque, power and speed. Drivable at full height and operator controlled differential.
Product of the Year – Vehicle/trailer mounted
Aldercote - Jack-less Transit Conversion
Innovative conversion offers unprecedented payloads, meaning electric van mounted platforms are now a practical proposition. Without stabilisers forces must pass through the vehicle structure, which van mounts cannot withstand. Aldercote addresses this challenge in two ways: using the structure’s wide base and its foot positioning.
Dinolift - Dino 120TLB
New trailer mount weighs 100kg less than previous version, therefore compatible with vehicles with lower towing capacities or heavier with a B-license. This enhances manoeuvrability. Notably, the battery version weighs the same as the 230VAC version. Environmentally friendly with optional narrow axle to fit through 2x1m doorways.
Ruthmann – Steiger T 380 XS
The model provides unprecedented performance with an ultra-compact design. Strategically positioned below high-reach models like the T 700 HF or T 1000 HF, it is designed for maximum outreach and flexibility on a road-ready 4x2 platform, to avoid the logistical challenges of larger vehicles.
Ruthmann – Steiger T 1000 HF
This 100m model’s standout features include extended outreach to 39m, unparalleled range of motion, lightweight 53 tonne chassis, enhanced fuel efficiency, high power-to-weight ratio (500 horsepower on 53 tonnes). The proven dual concept design allows the unit to excel in diverse work environments, making it the most mobile in its category.
Sinoboom - GKS32EL
World’s first hybrid truck mount with working height of 31.5m and length less than 6m. The 315Ah lithium battery with 16kWh capacity is capable of 4.5 hours work. Cost effective, the model offers smooth electric operation, reducing the frequency of engine maintenance and DPF alarm issues. It offers fast charging of 4-5 hours on 220V mains.
STAY CONNECTED



Receive the information you need when you need it through our world-leading magazines, newsletters and daily briefings.
CONNECT WITH THE TEAM



