For most new applicants, the pathway is:

1) Check that you meet the applicable entry requirements in the PIPA Inspector Certification Scheme Rules.

2) Complete the PIPA Inspector Training online theory course.

3) Complete practical training through an independent PIPA-approved training provider.

4) Apply separately to PCERT for certification.

5) Complete the required written and practical certification assessments.

6) Complete the separate requirements for registration with the PIPA Testing Scheme.

Completing the training course does not automatically result in certification. Certification is awarded only after the relevant PCERT application and assessment process has been completed successfully.

Applications should only be made where the applicant meets the prerequisites for the relevant application category under section 3.3 of the PIPA Inspector Certification Scheme Rules. The current application information and application link are published on the PCERT webpage.

Applicants should check the webpage before applying because assessment dates, fees, documents and availability may change.

Most new entrants will apply through Category A: Core Certification. Category A requires:

- At least three years of industry-related experience.

- Completion of a PIPA-approved inspector training course, unless the applicant has successfully certified with PCERT within the previous 36 months.

- Completion of the required application paperwork.

- Payment of the applicable fee.

- Completion of the required agreements and a digital identity check.

- Confirmation that the applicant meets the required eyesight standard. (The required eyesight acuity is 0.5 or 6/12 on the Snellen scale, which the rules describe as equivalent to the UK driving eyesight standard.)

Applicants should read section 3.3 of the PIPA Inspector Certification Scheme Rules in full before purchasing training or submitting a certification application.

The evidence must demonstrate at least three years of relevant experience during a five-year period. Examples may include:

- A CV supported by references.

- A letter from a current or previous employer.

- An inflatable operator training certificate.

- Evidence that a sole trader has traded in inflatable-related activities.

- Experience involving inflatable leisure activities or inspections within the scope of HSG175.

The examples are not exhaustive, and PCERT determines whether the evidence submitted satisfies the certification rules.

Yes. The current scheme provides the following routes:

Category A: Most new applicants seeking core certification. This normally requires three years of industry-related experience and completion of a PIPA-approved inspector training course.

Category B: People who already hold certification from another UKAS-accredited scheme against BS EN 14960-1. Applicants must provide details of work undertaken under that certification and complete the PIPA transition e-learning module.

Category C: The mature-entry route for people currently registered under the PIPA scheme. Applications must begin before the published closing date, currently 31 January 2027, and the applicant must complete the PIPA transition e-learning course before applying.

Category D: Recertification for an existing certified PIPA Inspector whose certification is due to expire within the next six months.

Category E: An existing certified PIPA Inspector applying to add an endorsement.

Applicants must use the route that reflects their actual circumstances.

The online theory course is part of the training pathway, but completing or purchasing training does not confirm that a person is eligible for certification.

Prospective learners should compare their experience against section 3.3 of the PIPA Inspector Certification Scheme Rules before enrolling. In particular, a typical new applicant applying through Category A must demonstrate at least three years of relevant industry experience.

The PIPA Inspector Training online theory course currently costs £170.

The course is available through the PIPA Learning Hub. As prices can change, applicants should check the course page before purchasing.

Practical training is delivered by independent PIPA-approved training providers. Each provider sets its own:

- Course fee.

- Course dates.

- Location.

- Booking arrangements.

- Cancellation terms.

- Any additional charges.

PIPA does not collect practical-training fees or manage bookings on behalf of the independent providers. Prospective learners should contact the provider directly for a quotation and details of what the fee includes.

The total will usually consist of:

- Online theory course: £170.

- Practical training: price set by the chosen independent training provider.

- PCERT application and certification assessment: currently £1,095 excluding VAT.

- Travel and, where necessary, accommodation.

- Specialist inspection equipment.

- Equipment calibration.

- Appropriate business insurance.

- Any reassessment fees, if required.

Because training fees, travel, equipment, calibration and insurance vary, PIPA cannot provide a single guaranteed total.

For two prospective inspectors, the known starting costs are two theory-course fees and two individual PCERT application fees, plus two practical-training fees and the applicants’ other business and equipment costs. Certification is awarded to individuals, so each person must apply and be assessed separately.

No. PIPA is not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide regulated insurance advice and cannot recommend a specific insurance policy or provider.

Prospective inspectors should obtain independent advice from a suitably authorised insurance broker or insurer. They should explain that they intend to undertake safety inspections of inflatable amusement devices and should ensure that the proposed cover is appropriate for all activities they intend to perform.

The certification scheme’s code of conduct requires certified individuals to carry adequate insurance, but it does not prescribe a provider or determine the premium.

Practical training takes place at locations arranged by independent PIPA-approved training providers.

The providers manage their own venues, course dates, bookings and fees. A list of approved trainers and advertised upcoming dates is available through the PIPA Inspector Training webpage.

PIPA does not guarantee that a course will be available in every region or on a particular date.

Core certification requires an in-person written assessment and an in-person practical assessment at a PCERT-approved assessment centre. The written and practical assessments are normally completed on the same day.

Available assessment centres and dates are published through the PCERT webpage.

There is no fixed completion time because it depends on:

- How quickly the learner completes the online theory course.

- The availability and duration of practical training.

- Whether the learner needs additional practice.

- The availability of a suitable certification assessment date.

- Whether the application evidence is complete.

- Whether all assessments are passed at the first attempt.

Applicants should not apply prematurely if they are not ready to complete the required assessments within the 12-month application period.

Candidates should ask their chosen practical-training provider what equipment is supplied during the course and what they are expected to bring.

Equipment being available during training does not remove the need for a person who later performs inspections to obtain and maintain suitable inspection equipment for their own professional work.

The published equipment guidance identifies the following equipment as requiring current calibration certificates:

- Digital or mechanical manometer, excluding U-gauge types.

- Digital or mechanical inclinometer or level.

Other essential or commonly required equipment includes:

- A suitable linear tape measure.

- A long spirit level.

- Weight-stamped weights capable of providing the required weight packages of 25 kg, 35 kg, 65 kg and 85 kg.

- Inspection probes conforming to Annex D of BS EN 14960-1:2019.

Depending on the inspection methods used, an inspector may also use equipment such as:

- A laser distance measure.

- A vernier calliper or rigid measuring device.

- A height-measuring stick.

- An anemometer. 

Prospective inspectors should read the Guidance on the Requirements for Equipment Calibration for PIPA Inspectors before purchasing equipment.

The specified safety-critical equipment must be calibrated before first use and subsequently every 12 months. Calibration must be conducted by a professional calibration service accredited by UKAS to ISO/IEC 17025.

Equipment without a current satisfactory calibration certificate, or which fails calibration, must not be used for a PIPA inspection until it has been repaired where necessary and has subsequently passed calibration.

Digital measuring devices and laser measuring devices also require professional calibration when used, although suitable non-digital alternatives may be available for some measurements.

No. Training and certification are separate.

Training provides the knowledge and practical preparation needed for the role. PCERT then independently assesses whether the individual meets the certification requirements. A person becomes certified only after successfully completing the applicable PCERT process.

No. These are separate arrangements:

PCERT certification confirms the competence of an individual person to work within the certified scope.

PIPA Testing Scheme registration relates to an inspection body or business operating within the PIPA scheme and using the scheme’s systems and intellectual property. [

Achieving certification does not automatically:

- Register a business with the PIPA Testing Scheme.

- Authorise use of PIPA intellectual property.

- Activate access to issue PIPA inspection reports. 

Being registered with the PIPA Testing Scheme is not a prerequisite for applying for individual certification through PCERT. However, a certified person intending to issue PIPA inspection reports will need to satisfy the separate PIPA registration requirements.