FIS and The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) have agreed a reciprocal membership, strengthening collaboration between the two organisations and supporting safer working practices across the construction and interiors sectors.
Through the arrangement, FIS members will gain access to IPAF guidance documents, Toolbox Talks and safety resources, supporting improved understanding of safe powered access use when carrying out temporary work at height. In return, IPAF will become a member of FIS, recognising its expertise and leadership within the finishes and interiors sector.
The agreement reflects a shared commitment to collaboration, evidence-based safety improvement, and recognising subject matter expertise across the construction industry, rather than duplicating guidance or resources.
Peter Douglas, CEO and Managing Director of IPAF, said:
“FIS approached IPAF to request more detailed accident data relating specifically to construction activities, recognising that many of their members regularly use smaller MEWPs such as push-around verticals and scissor lifts. By preparing a tailored report highlighting relevant accident statistics and learning points, we were able to support the FIS in better understanding the risks affecting their sector. This reciprocal membership is a positive example of how trade bodies can work together, by sharing data, guidance, and expertise to improve safety outcomes and ensure consistent, informed messages reach the workforce. I am looking forward to further collaboration in 2026.”
Iain McIlwee, CEO of FIS, said:
“The FIS Health and Safety Group had a busy year in 2025 as the work we do comes under ever closer scrutiny. Our role in this is to help members develop a clear and consistent approach to safety. This is particularly significant given the sector’s need to lean into contingent working and the impact this has on how people move around the sector. In trying to provide holistic support, we need to consider all aspects of H&S. Trying to do that on our own would be an impossibility. When we reached out to IPAF the response was generous, rapid and comprehensive. This kind of collaboration is critical – none of us have all the answers, but when we work together we can start to answer the many questions that specialists and their advisors have. As the questions come in, the guidance will evolve and so, it was the obvious next step to structure our relationship so that together we can better support the sector in keeping people safe.”