Page 67 - Hub-4 Magazine Issue 59
P. 67

Mentor Training
What does competence mean to your workforce?
Competency is a combination of practical and thinking skills, experience and knowledge and the ability to take responsibilities.
All industries and environments have their own level of responsibilities and ways in which they demonstrate competency throughout their workforce; this will differ depending on the risk levels of that particular site but will not discourage the fact that competency is key to maintaining any safe working environment.
According to recent figures from the HSE, 147 fatal injuries have affected workers in the UK within the period 2018/2019– a figure that could have been dramatically decreased with more competent workers onsite.
Demonstrating Competence
It has been recognised for a number of years, in particular in the extractives and mineral processing industry, that competency is demonstrated through the achievement of nationally recognised vocational qualifications in a subject which directly relates to the activity that is being performed. However, we can question this theory as we see an increase in both the number of vocational qualifications being carried out alongside the number of fatalities occurring, but why is this?
It seems that a large number of training courses are being carried out by trainers that hold no training qualification to the subject in question, making the training and assessment process in-effective, usually being carried out by an internal or ‘ad hoc’ member of staff rather than reputable and accredited trainers and assessors. This usually is for time or cost saving purposes within the business. Let us also not forget those providers who have ultimately mis sold incorrect qualifications resulting in the incorrect performance criteria being completed.
At Mentor and SERAC, we understand the importance of competence on site which is why we offer a range of vocational qualifications that link directly with a range of specific job roles and environments; each training element and assessment carried out by knowledgeable and experienced instructors and assessors.
The correct knowledge gained from vocational qualifications combined with
experience and effective thinking on site promotes a competent workforce but there is still more to think about...
Risk Assessments and Scheduled Maintenance
Employers on any site should install a preventative maintenance plan through risk assessments and scheduled planned maintenance across all machinery, ensuring that all equipment is safe to use.
Procedures should also be in place for employees to report any damages or faults in a systematic log to have evidence of any maintenance work being carried out and to reduce the risk of a costly breakdown or accident happening.
Continuous Personal Development
According to information provided by the HSE, a good way to maintain an understanding and continue to
demonstrate competence is for the workforce to keep a record of and ensure there is clear and continuous personal development on-going.
This includes achieving relevant qualifications, re-fresher training on the equipment, keeping up-to-date with general industry news and law changes, equipment manufacturer changes and accreditation changes that could affect the running of training onsite.
Our qualifications business, Serac UK delivers MPQC accredited qualifications relevant to the industry. In addition, Mentor can also support your employees and deliver a range of tailored training, assessments and qualifications to support and maintain competence on site.
For further information and support or for guidance on qualifications and workplace competence, get in touch with us today – 01246 386900.
www.hub-4.com November/December 2019 - Issue 59
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