Roofing apprentices across the UK are being encouraged to showcase their skills by entering this year’s BMI Apprentice of the Year competition, which takes place on the 24th and 25th July. The event, hosted by BMI UK & Ireland – manufacturer of leading roofing brands Redland and Icopal – is
Mckay Training is proud to officially launch its expertise into the UK marketplace as a training and consultancy business offering standard as well as bespoke courses and certifications in critical areas such as Health and Safety, Management, and Business Administration for any size of business through a variety of industries.
Bespoke joinery manufacturer, JSJ UK, has unveiled its new skills investment strategy, prioritising apprenticeships, traditional and niche trades, and developing current and future colleagues. Buoyed by the success of its partnership with North Lancs Training Group (NLTG), managing director – and former apprentice – Jack Smith, has pledged to futureproof
Since the launch of the Heat Training Grant, Options Skills has successfully delivered training to over 700 experienced gas engineers in air-source and ground-source heat pumps. Paving the way for individuals to enhance their skills and knowledge in their installation and maintenance. The government-funded project was introduced to train 6,000 qualified heat
Watford-based housebuilder Barratt David Wilson North Thames has recently thrown open its doors to work experience for students in and around Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. The work experience sectors that were on offer include roles in Sustainability, Sales & Marketing, Land and Legal teams. The housebuilder is looking for eager students
In a pioneering initiative, the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC) has committed to a bricklaying training and rehabilitation programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice. This groundbreaking endeavour aims to provide employment opportunities and support for individuals transitioning out of prison. The Association of Brickwork Contractors received approval to
UK’s leading safety services company begins offering new option to its Rooftop Worker Scheme training course approved by the Mast & Tower Safety (MATS) Group and accredited by Energy & Utility Skills Register (EUSR). Arco Professional Safety Services has created an industry approved blended learning option to an existing working
Buildings that people use in their daily lives, such as workplaces, schools and hospitals are the focus of a new campaign to keep people safe from asbestos. Asbestos: Your Duty launching today, Monday 15 January, aims to improve understanding of what the legal duty to manage asbestos involves. The Health
To advance the UK’s journey toward achieving net zero, Energy & Utility Skills is proud to announce the establishment of the Power Generation Group within the National Skills Academy for Power (NSAP). This initiative strategically aligns with the needs of the renewable sector within the power generation industry. Power generation
FCC Environment is putting its quarry plant operators and managers through their paces with Finning training experts to improve fuel efficiencies and cut fuel burn. More than 30 FCC machine operators and plant managers have completed the Finning Eco-Drive™ operator training programme so far, which is part of a company-wide
Roofing apprentices across the UK are being encouraged to showcase their skills by entering this year’s BMI Apprentice of the Year competition, which takes place on the 24th and 25th July. The event, hosted by BMI UK & Ireland – manufacturer of leading roofing brands Redland and Icopal – is open to apprentices in both pitched and flat roofing. The competition will see finalists undertake a series of challenges, providing opportunities to showcase and develop their skills – from technical and practical capability and teamwork through to marketing and business acumen. Held over two days at the BMI Academy in Gloucestershire, each round of the competition is overseen by a panel of judges who are selected for their influence on the roofing sector. This provides finalists with an opportunity to learn directly from leading industry figures. BMI’s Apprentice of the Year competition aims to strengthen the future of the roofing industry and address the skills shortage by providing a platform for these new recruits to expand their skills and receive the necessary levels of support needed to develop quickly and succeed. More than just a contest of existing technical skills, the two-day event is designed to provide coaching and development so that all of the finalists walk away having benefitted from the experience. Reflected through this year’s theme of ‘Building New Horizons’, the competition provides a platform for new talent starting their careers through to the tutors and employers creating opportunities and sharing their expertise with apprentices. This year, two apprentices will earn the title of BMI Apprentice of the Year – one in flat roofing and the other in pitched – alongside a £1,000 cash prize and three years’ worth of training at the BMI Academy. To enter, roofing apprentices are invited to submit their entry online by 26th April. Fraser Biles, Commercial Director at BMI, said: “Apprenticeships provide a fantastic route in the industry, giving new entrants the opportunity to undertake their training and apply their learnings on jobs alongside experienced roofers.” “The BMI Apprentice of the Year event celebrates the commitment, enthusiasm, and growing skillsets of new roofers – as well as the continued support of employers, colleges, and training providers that help them on their journeys. The competition is the ideal platform for apprentices to showcase and develop their skills, and may even be an event that helps define their careers in roofing. We’re really excited to see the quality of candidates for this year’s competition!” This year’s BMI Apprentice of the Year competition opens during National Apprenticeship Week on 5th February, and applicants are invited to submit entries online by 26th April. This year’s finalists will be selected in May, before being invited to compete in the two-day final at the BMI Academy in July where the winners will be crowned. Find out more about the BMI Apprentice of the Year competition and how to apply, at bmigroup.com/uk/aoty Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Mckay Training is proud to officially launch its expertise into the UK marketplace as a training and consultancy business offering standard as well as bespoke courses and certifications in critical areas such as Health and Safety, Management, and Business Administration for any size of business through a variety of industries. With an experienced team of trainers and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Mckay Training empowers individuals and businesses with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Mckay Business, Safety, and Risk Training also offer a comprehensive consultancy service to ensure your business and workplace are fully compliant with current legislation. Our expert consultants provide valuable health and safety advice, including customised risk assessments to address your specific needs. Stephen Mckay, the founder of Mckay Training, brings over 35 years of invaluable experience in the construction industry, having worked in various roles from mid to senior management. Recognising the need to support businesses of all sizes, Stephen established Mckay Training with the vision of advising and guiding each company, ensuring their policies and procedures align with current Government guidelines. Stephen said: “Drawing from my senior positions in companies, I understand the significance of training and supporting every employee to contribute towards increased productivity, morale, and protection against potential costs that insurance may not cover. Mckay Training aims to empower businesses, and by leveraging my expertise and industry insights, I can help mitigate risks and drive success”. Mckay Training will be working closely with Oaks Training & Development Ltd to deliver a whole range of group, 1-2-1 and bespoke courses. Heather Worsdale of Oaks Training said: “We are thrilled to be working in association with Mckay Training, who align perfectly with our strong ethos towards focusing on staff development. Both of our organisations share a common goal of delivering the highest standard of training to empower a highly skilled, supported workforce, which serves as the ultimate foundation for any organisation. We believe that success in today’s fast-paced environment can only be achieved by working with individuals or entities that possess the skill sets required to take your organisation to the next level. By partnering with Mckay Training, we can proudly demonstrate that we practice what we preach.” For more information about the courses, certifications, and consultancy services offered by Mckay Business, Safety, and Risk Training, please visit https://Mckaytraining.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bespoke joinery manufacturer, JSJ UK, has unveiled its new skills investment strategy, prioritising apprenticeships, traditional and niche trades, and developing current and future colleagues. Buoyed by the success of its partnership with North Lancs Training Group (NLTG), managing director – and former apprentice – Jack Smith, has pledged to futureproof his business through a continued commitment to employee training, having already invested hundreds of hours into staff development over recent years. Twelve months into a partnership with NLTG, JSJ UK has seen the benefits of partnering with a local training provider with a manufacturing specialism. With apprentices currently representing more than a sixth of the business’s workforce, JSJ UK’s training programme is in full swing, and due to get bigger. Recording record growth in 2023, the latest strategy pins continued expansion on employee development. Jack says: “I’ve always been a big believer in developing people and providing opportunities to upskill. I began my career as an apprentice, so I know how any investment of time and money pays dividends for both individuals and businesses. “As a business owner, I’ve learnt a lot. It’s not always easy to get it right, and over the last 12 months, in partnership with NLTG, the path ahead has become clearer than ever. Apprenticeships continue to be a priority – with new processes in place to boost success – and we’ll also be working to upskill current staff members and provide training for traditional trades. Our expert craftsmanship is what sets JSJ UK apart. We must invest in niche skills, such as the ability to understand detailed drawings, which creates innovative thinking, problem solving, and real attention to detail, as such skills set us apart when it comes to making our client’s vision a reality. “Over the years, our apprenticeship schemes have recorded numerous highlights. I’ve seen first-hand how an apprentice can become an invaluable member of our team, and how investing in an individual can really turn their life around.” Kane Maddran, trainee quantity surveyor, joined JSJ UK as a labourer at age 17. Over the last seven years, he completed an apprenticeship in site carpentry and site supervision and is commencing his final year of a quantity surveying degree. He says: “I’ve gained fantastic experience at JSJ UK. I’ve been on-site, in the office, and in the workshop. I’ve been supported through my career goals and am working towards ultimately becoming a chartered quantity surveyor. The benefits of investing in your own staff go both ways – my career has developed, but the business is able to develop talent in the areas it needs it most.” Meanwhile, Ross Gorman, bench hand assembler, is midway through a two-year bespoke furniture maker apprenticeship. He joined JSJ UK after moving to Preston, and through his apprenticeship has enhanced his skillset significantly. Ross said: “I’ve felt the benefit of skills investment first-hand. Before joining JSJ UK, I had been a frame builder, making beds. I’m now completing a bespoke cabinet making apprenticeship, which requires a much higher level of craftsmanship. I’ve been involved in client projects that I’m incredibly proud of – all while gaining expertise and of course, being paid to train. “I recently worked on a curved wall unit for a bespoke office fit out. It’s an impressive piece of craftsmanship that requires specialist skills to build. I enjoy the work, I’m well supported, and I know I’m always moving forward.” Elsewhere, JSJ UK has supported head of finance & procurement, Emma Stoddart, through accounting qualifications and invested in an array of other upskilling projects. Apprentice bench joiner, Nathen Rizza, who initially joined JSJ UK on an eight-week traineeship, is also underway with a two-year level 2 furniture manufacturer apprenticeship, which he is due to complete in November 2024. Jack says, “Under our new strategy, we’ll know exactly where we’re getting the talent to fuel every area of growth. We employ people that want to do a good job, and we’ll ensure they have every opportunity to do exactly that.” Andy Rae, furniture team assistant manager at NLTG, said: “Since we started working with JSJ UK in September 2022, it has been very clear that they are a company that really understands the need to invest in the future and the importance of developing their staff. “There has been good communication from them in all aspects of the apprenticeship journey and great support in helping apprentices achieve their goals. I know the apprentices have enjoyed attending our specialist training centre in Accrington and learning new skills, and I’ve no doubt that the relationship between JSJ UK and NLTG will continue to flourish.” For more information or to contact JSJ UK about a bespoke joinery project, call 01772 827173 or visit https://jsjuk.co Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Since the launch of the Heat Training Grant, Options Skills has successfully delivered training to over 700 experienced gas engineers in air-source and ground-source heat pumps. Paving the way for individuals to enhance their skills and knowledge in their installation and maintenance. The government-funded project was introduced to train 6,000 qualified heat pump installers in England. A £5 million grant was provided to give experienced gas engineers the chance to gain heat pump training, with each person receiving £500 towards the cost. Options Skills, a leading accredited training provider renowned for its specialist courses in gas, electrics and renewables, was identified as a preferred training provider for the scheme. With 10 years of experience, they provide training in the North West, West Midlands and South East regions. Since the introduction of the grant in July 2023, Options Skills has successfully delivered training to 743 people, making significant strides towards the 6,000 target. To achieve the UK Government’s target to be Net Zero by 2050, more professionals will need to be trained to install and maintain energy efficiency measures such as insulation and low-carbon technologies. The introduction of heat pumps as a source to power the heating in our homes is part of achieving this target. Giving the existing workforce access to cost-effective and quality training is essential. The course by Options Skills is delivered by their very own, experienced instructors. They have been trained to high industry standards and typically have relevant industry experience themselves. The course is accredited by LCL Awards, one of the Building Services Engineering (BSE) sectors’ foremost certification bodies. They are accredited by the esteemed United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS), guaranteeing that trainees are receiving instruction that is both rigorous and meets industry standards. To find out more about Options Skills free heat pump training choices, please visit here. Or call 0800 802 1306. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Watford-based housebuilder Barratt David Wilson North Thames has recently thrown open its doors to work experience for students in and around Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. The work experience sectors that were on offer include roles in Sustainability, Sales & Marketing, Land and Legal teams. The housebuilder is looking for eager students who wish to learn and grow in the sector of their choosing, as well as building vital connections within the construction and property industry. Throughout 2023, Barratt David Wilson North Thames has hosted four students across the Home Counties, giving them the chance to delve into what it’s like to work for a large housebuilder. Students from both Aylesbury Grammar School and Vandyke Upper School had the chance to work on-site at Clipstone Park, as well as visiting Barratt David Wilson North Thames’ Head Office in Watford, and finally, the chance to attend a sustainability event in London. All students gained valuable insight into the housebuilding industry to take the next step in their career, and gain hands on experience with professionals in the sector in which they will be hoping to find work in for the future. Evie-Jean Ellington-Reason, student from Vandyke Upper School, commented: “I started my work experience over the summer working in the sales & marketing suite at Clipstone Park in Leighton Buzzard. My ultimate aim is to have a career on the sales side of property, so being able to see how sales advisors at Barratt David Wilson North Thames operate with customers, present show homes and also host events was so valuable.” Pa-ansu, student from Aylesbury Grammar School added: “”I am thankful for the opportunity I had with Barratt David Wilson North Thames over October half term. My career goals are to go into the legal realm, so spending time with legal professionals was a fabulous insight, seeing the day-to-day duties, career progression in the industry and what skills are needed. Witnessing the expertise of professionals during meetings, while also being assigned both research tasks and case studies reinforced my passion to pursue a career in law and wasn’t something I’d be able to learn in a classroom.” Adam, student from Aylesbury Grammar School added: “At every stage of the work experience, colleagues were welcoming and inviting, which made me more keen for the world of work. My mentors in the Land department were incredibly helpful and proactive in inviting me to meetings, and I was able to actively participate in discussions, observe their approach to different challenges, and learn from their experiences. They patiently answered my queries and were committed to enhancing my learning, keeping me actively engaged throughout the week.” Max Ward, student from Aylesbury Grammar School added: “I was lucky enough to be invited to an event in central London with Barratt Development’s Sustainability team in December. The sustainability sector is something which is only going to grow so I am extremely keen in gaining as much experience to hopefully pursue a career in the industry. It was so great to meet so many industry professionals on the day and talk about the opportunities in sustainability.” Marc Woolfe, Director of Sales and Marketing at Barratt David Wilson North Thames concludes: “It is of such importance that as an established housebuilder, we can offer up work experience positions to those who live locally to our developments. From seeing how beneficial it has been for Evie, Pa-ansu, Max and Adam has made us as a team realise the benefits of teaching a future aspirer in the industry. We hope that the students enjoyed their time with us and that it has solidified their future career aspirations. We hopefully look forward to seeing or even working with them again in the near future.” If you or anyone you know are looking for some work experience in the sectors listed above, then please email erin@building-relations.co.uk or call 07727 350462. For further details about Barratt Homes North Thames, its new ‘Rent then Buy’ Scheme or the new homes at Sawbridge Park, Clipstone Park, Linmere, Kingsbrook or St Rumbold’s Fields, visit www.dwh.co.uk / www.barratthomes.co.uk or call 0333 355 8500 / 0333 355 8501. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In a pioneering initiative, the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC) has committed to a bricklaying training and rehabilitation programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice. This groundbreaking endeavour aims to provide employment opportunities and support for individuals transitioning out of prison. The Association of Brickwork Contractors received approval to deliver a comprehensive training programme designed specifically for those soon to be leaving prison and seeking employment. This programme at Thorn Cross Prison near Warrington not only offers vocational training but also serves as a platform for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The social value of this initiative is immeasurable, benefiting both the individuals seeking a fresh start and the employers involved. By equipping prison leavers with marketable skills and fostering their successful re-entry into the workforce, the programme contributes to reducing recidivism rates and promoting positive change in the community. To facilitate this transformative initiative, the ABC Assessment Centre is bringing its state-of-the-art training rigs into Thorn Cross prison and, in partnership with Cara Brickwork, is delivering a 16-week training programme to Level 2 Diploma students. This intensive course provides learners with the additional skills necessary to work on sites managed by ABC Members, ensuring they are equipped to sustain employment upon release. The training programme follows a model similar to that employed in partnership with Further Education (FE) colleges. However, what sets this programme apart is that the candidates are already linked to an employer before their release, ensuring a smooth transition and a greater chance of securing stable employment. Crucially, the scheme has garnered the support of eight member companies located in close proximity to the prison. These companies have committed to employing the students who successfully complete the training and rehabilitation programme, providing them with tangible job opportunities and a pathway towards a better future. The partnership between the ABC and the Ministry of Justice exemplifies a progressive and inclusive approach to rehabilitation and workforce development. By providing individuals with the necessary skills and employment prospects, this programme lays a solid foundation for successful reintegration and a brighter future. CEO of the Association of Brickwork Contractors, Eve Livett, says: “We are incredibly proud to have launched this training and rehabilitation programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice. By extending opportunities for education and employment to those leaving prison, we aim to break the cycle of reoffending and empower individuals to rebuild their lives. We believe in the transformative power of second chances and the importance of offering support and opportunities for those who seek a fresh start.” Neil Allen, Managing Director at Cara Brickwork, comments: “Cara Group has been involved with Thorn Cross for many years, offering guidance and advice to the brickwork department with the aim of enhancing the prospects for prisoners when they are released. Through this established relationship, I was able to introduce the ABC to the team at Thorn Cross who have now got the contract to deliver the training courses within the prison. “The prisoners that I have spoken with and interviewed seem like genuine people who have taken the wrong path in life and need a second chance. We hope that by educating them while they are in prison will pave the path for a brighter future upon release. We want them to re-enter society with useful skills and a renewed sense of purpose. “We are soon to be taking our first prisoner out on ROTL (Release on Temporary License) and are excited about helping to advance his career towards becoming a bricklayer. We hope that when he can see the possibilities of the career that could be ahead for him, that it will discourage any future involvement in crime.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
UK’s leading safety services company begins offering new option to its Rooftop Worker Scheme training course approved by the Mast & Tower Safety (MATS) Group and accredited by Energy & Utility Skills Register (EUSR). Arco Professional Safety Services has created an industry approved blended learning option to an existing working at height training course. The course aims to provide delegates with the skills and experience required to safely access flat roofs in protected and unprotected areas. The blended option allows delegates of the course to complete the educational section of the course online, previously the entire course had to be completed in-person in a structured one-day session. This blended learning version of the Rooftop Worker Scheme provides a flexible learning approach with bespoke integrated virtual reality exercises. It is also more cost effective than the traditional course at a 20% reduced rate while offering the same quality of learning, experience and certification. As a blended learning course, participants will be required to complete seven online modules and a practical training and assessment session at one of four possible sites. The online portion of the course has training material that can be accessed by delegates as often as required. Once completed, candidates have 90 days to attend a practical assessment at one of Arco’s state of the art Safety Centres in Stafford, Bracknell, Trafford or Linlithgow (Scotland). Topics covered in the Rooftop Worker Scheme syllabus include: • Legislation for working at height• Risk assessment awareness• Rooftop hazards and control measures• PPE – pre use checks and fitting harness, helmet, fall arrest and work positioning lanyards• Safe use of portable ladders• Edge protection• Horizontal and vertical systems (fixed and temporary)• Climbing techniques using harnesses, lanyards, and fixed systems• Awareness of emergency procedures Falls from height continued to be the number one cause of work-related deaths in 2023 according to the latest statistics from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE). Steve Dawson, Manager – Working at Height Training at Arco Professional Safety Services, said: “When it comes to working from height, regard for safety is paramount. We’re proud to be able to offer this brand-new training course carefully designed with the considerations to keep people safe when working on rooftops. As industry leaders in working at height practices, Arco understands the necessity to provide these learning opportunities with specialist support to ensure the safety of workers where it matters most.” This course is designed for all personnel that are required to access flat roof areas using a variety of access systems and harness-based fall protection equipment during their duties. The Rooftop Worker Scheme certificate will be valid for three years upon completion of the course. To find out more about this course, see upcoming course dates and to enquire about booking, visit: https://www.arcoservices.co.uk/training/course-finder/working-at-height-training/rooftop-safety-training/rooftop-safety-blended-learning Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Buildings that people use in their daily lives, such as workplaces, schools and hospitals are the focus of a new campaign to keep people safe from asbestos. Asbestos: Your Duty launching today, Monday 15 January, aims to improve understanding of what the legal duty to manage asbestos involves. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) wants anyone with responsibilities for buildings to do everything they must do to comply with the law and prevent exposure to this dangerous substance, which was widely used in post-war construction before it was completely banned in 1999. The legal duty to manage asbestos covers a wide range of buildings such as museums, schools, hospitals, and places of worship, as well as workplaces like offices and factories. Businesses and organisations responsible for premises built before the turn of the century, and especially those between 1950 and 1980 when the use of asbestos in construction was at its peak, must carry out the necessary checks and understand their legal responsibilities. People who visit or work in these buildings will not be exposed if asbestos is properly contained. But it can become dangerous when disturbed or damaged. Updated information, new templates (including an asbestos management plan template), and explanatory videos can be found on HSE’s website to help anyone who is unsure of their legal duties – or just need to refresh themselves – on what they need to do. HSE will check how asbestos is managed when visiting a range of buildings – like schools and hospitals – requiring those responsible for managing asbestos risks to ensure they have the right arrangements in place. Sarah Albon, HSE’s chief executive said: “To keep people safe from the harms of asbestos, a culture of safely managing asbestos is needed in our building industry and among those responsible for buildings. “Asbestos exposure in Great Britain is still the single greatest cause of work-related deaths due to exposures decades ago. “Together, we must protect people in the workplace and reduce future work-related ill health.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
To advance the UK’s journey toward achieving net zero, Energy & Utility Skills is proud to announce the establishment of the Power Generation Group within the National Skills Academy for Power (NSAP). This initiative strategically aligns with the needs of the renewable sector within the power generation industry. Power generation is undergoing significant technological advancements such as carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS), energy from waste, wind, and other renewable sources. These advancements are creating numerous job opportunities, with further anticipated industry growth indicating a requirement for an additional 70,000 skilled professionals within the offshore wind sector alone by 2030. In October 2023, the world’s largest offshore wind farm, Dogger Bank, produced power for the first time, and upon full operation, it will provide power equivalent to the needs of six million homes. In addition to this, more than 15 million tonnes of residual waste is converted annually by the UK’s Energy Recovery Facilities (ERFs), enough to supply half the homes in London for an entire year. Currently, however, many employers express concerns about finding and securing the right talent. The Power Generation Group is taking steps to address these concerns by identifying skill gaps and shortages. They have already recognised the need for a targeted approach in crucial areas within energy from waste, such as carbon capture, utilisation, and storage. Specialised skills such as electrical and mechanical engineering, planning and connecting, and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), among others, are foreseen as essential to meet the evolving demands of the renewables industry. Stephen Barrett, Director of Membership and Strategic Engagement at Energy & Utility Skills said: “A focus on renewables within the Power Generation Group allows us to support industry by establishing and upholding the necessary training standards, contributing to the UK’s training infrastructure, and addressing the growing demand for upskilling.” In a world where the transition to net zero is of critical importance, the focus on green skills by the Power Generation Group within the National Skills Academy for Power is a significant step forward. This move underscores Energy & Utility Skills commitment to facilitating the UK’s transition towards a more sustainable and greener energy future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
FCC Environment is putting its quarry plant operators and managers through their paces with Finning training experts to improve fuel efficiencies and cut fuel burn. More than 30 FCC machine operators and plant managers have completed the Finning Eco-Drive™ operator training programme so far, which is part of a company-wide initiative called ‘Don’t Be Fuelish’. The campaign aims to crack down on machine idle time and minimise fuel burn, as well as improving CO2 emissions and reducing operating costs. Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat® equipment and parts, launched its Eco-Drive™ operator training in 2009 aimed at refining operator skills to increase performance and crucially cut costs by giving operators the skills they need to better utilise the tools and technologies available in the equipment. Due to the popularity of the operator training, Finning recently added an Advanced Performance programme specifically aimed at managers and supervisors to enable them to better manage the fleet operations and deliver greater efficiency, safety, and productivity. Bill Stone, Group Plant Manager at FCC Environment, said: “We’ve been doing business with Finning for some time and enjoy a good working relationship with them. We started looking at all our operational data to identify how we can improve idle times – and vitally cut fuel costs – and the training delivered by Finning was an important part of that. “We’ve done four sessions of the operator training so far and feedback has been good. Many of our quarry operators have been with us for 10 years or more, but many of them don’t typically use the technology that is fitted as standard in new Cat machines which can save them time and fuel. The great thing was when they came out of the sessions, they were all fired up and telling other operators’ things they’d picked up – which was great. “I think they really appreciated the fact that they had the opportunity for one-to-one interaction with the trainer – who were on their level as former operators, so they really engaged with them. “I attended the advanced course for managers, and it was very good. For example, we learnt about the impact of using incorrect ground engaging tools and how this affects machine productivity.” The advanced course also addresses topics such as assessing and measuring equipment capability to optimise fuel usage, identifying inefficiencies as well as looking into best practice operating techniques and the fundamentals of machine application. Participants on the course develop their own site improvement plan, with the Finning team providing a follow-up review to provide any ongoing guidance and support. Bill adds: “We’ll never completely cut out zero idling, but this campaign and dedicated training with Finning experts helps the operators understand how much money is wasted in terms of fuel and repair and maintenance. Educating the managers so they understand the economic and environmental gains achieved by only having machines working when they’re needed is already yielding savings across the company.” Jonathan Davies, Finning UK & Ireland Industry Manager for Industrial & Waste and Paving, said: “When you’ve got a quarry working 2000 hours a year every penny counts, and you must make sure you get the best per cost per tonne. “While we can supply efficient and reliable machines, the greater the operator skill and efficiency the less wear and tear there is on the machine and fuel wastage and the greater the site efficiency.” Both the Eco-Drive™ Operator Training and Advanced Performance Training courses are Institute of Quarrying CPD accredited and are available from one of Finning UK & Irelands’ facilities, or group training can be delivered at a customer site. To find out more about Finning Eco-DriveTM Operator and Manager Training courses go to www.finning.com/en_GB/services/customer-training/operator-training.html Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
