Responding to skills shortages in the utilities and energy industries, a new programme has been launched to replace the segmented approach to training that is the industry norm with a fast-track initiative that drastically reduces the time it takes to get new operatives up to speed.
The new packaged courses, which can get operatives ready for the field in just one week or less, are the brainchild of Develop Training Ltd (DTL), the UK’s leading provider of training to the energy and utilities sectors, and facilities managers.
The idea was developed by Penny McNichol, a DTL Delivery Manager in the water industry, who said: “Because of the persistent skills shortages faced by the industry, recruiting new operatives into businesses and getting them ready for the field is a major challenge. Traditionally, the training required can be segmented in its delivery, with operatives doing part of it straight away but often waiting up to several months to be trained in further elements. By packaging together all the elements in one intensive, role-specific course, DTL is giving businesses an alternative that has the potential to make a major contribution to solving their skills shortfall.”
Key features of the fast-track packages are:
- Role-specific, intensive training solution
- Get operatives fully trained faster
- Transferrable skills training
- Minimise workforce disruption
- City & Guilds accredited courses
The package comes in three flavours, combining popular training products to provide delegates with the essential learning they need to work successfully and efficiently in the field. These include:
- Confined Space Entry and Escape Breathing Apparatus (CSBA) One-day awareness course including awareness of escape set breathing apparatus.
- NRSWA Signing, Lighting and Guarding Assessment (NRSWA2)
One-day New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA) course to provide signing, lighting and guarding training. The course incorporates City & Guilds Assessment and Accreditation under scheme 6156 (Unit 2). - Drain and Sewer Cleaning with High Pressure Water jetting (WJ1)
Two-day training course designed to provide practical training in the safe, effective use of jetting equipment and the supervision of jetting equipment and operations. - Safe Working at Height (HS14)
An awareness training course to recognise the hazards, risks and dangers of working at height. - Safe Manual Handling (HS4)
An awareness course to recognise the hazards, risks and dangers of manual handling in the workplace and to develop good practice lifting techniques.
Different combinations of courses in the three packages – basic, intermediate and– match different job roles in the industry. Basic and intermediate courses are suitable for individuals in a wide range of industries as well as water with basic aimed at those whose job role can include working in confined spaces, lifting and occasional working at height and intermediate tailored for those more likely to be working on ancillary equipment – operatives who work in confined spaces as part of their role.
Jetting, the most advanced course, is designed specifically for water operatives working on the sewerage network, whether using the larger tanker jetter units or smaller van packs.
More information is available from DTL’s training advisors on 0800 876 6708.
