Jamie Brassington, Product Manager at WernerCo, explains the different training options available for builders and the benefits.
Following the latest report from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), it’s clear that whilst good progress is being made in reducing workplace accidents and falls from height, more can always be done to maximise on-site safety. With many construction jobs requiring tradesmen to carry out work that could result in fatal injuries, it’s important that employers and employees alike are aware of the correct safety procedures and equipment.
Whilst there have been steps forward in raising awareness of the dangers of working at height, thanks to the efforts of trade bodies and manufacturers, safety is always an area that can be improved and there is still a long way to go. This is highlighted in the latest ‘Workplace Fatal Injuries in Great Britain 2020′ Annual Statistics report from HSE, which shows the shocking number of accidents that still occur every year.
Whilst there has been a 24 per cent reduction in the number of fatal accidents in 2019/20, the construction sector still accounts for a significant proportion of these, with falls from height remaining the main cause of fatal accidents.
When working at height, there are various types of equipment that can be utilised on site. However, ensuring that users have the correct training is often overlooked, meaning equipment is not used in the safest way possible. So, whether professionals are using a ladder or an access tower, what training is available?
Ladders
When it comes to using a ladder, it’s easy for professionals to assume they are using their equipment in a safe way. However, there are a number of risks that tradesmen can face every day and without proper training, they could unknowingly be putting themselves at risk of injury.
For any professionals working independently or in a workforce where staff are regularly using ladders, it is highly recommended that they undertake training such as that offered by WernerCo, with regular sessions held at both its Burton upon Trent and Maldon facilities throughout the year.
WernerCo’s Ladder Association approved training sessions have now resumed, having been adapted to adhere to post-covid guidelines. This includes a reduced number of attendees per session and utilising more open spaces to allow for social distancing. Suitable for users and inspectors, both courses comprise practical and theory assessments, covering when and how to use, handle and store a ladder, as well as how to highlight potential hazards.
For those responsible for a workforce on site, there is a specific site inspector course, where delegates can learn how to assess and determine when it is appropriate to inspect a ladder, and how to recommend the correct action if faults are found.
Upon completing these courses, delegates will be issued with a Ladder Association certificate, along with an accredited LadderCard. The card can then be used as proof of competency for five years.
Access Towers
For those who use access towers more frequently when working at height, the PASMA accredited Towers for Users Course covers everything tradesmen need to know about best practice.
The course is designed for those who are responsible for specifying, assembling, dismantling, using, altering, moving and inspecting access towers. Taking place over one day, it provides both theoretical and practical training on tower legislation; PASMA codes of practice; hazards associated with using mobile access towers; and what should be avoided.
The course offered at WernerCo covers a comprehensive range of towers and isn’t specific to one manufacturer. However, it is essential when choosing a tower that it conforms to EN1004:2004 in order to meet minimum safety requirements.
Whether its a ladder or access tower being used, it’s clear to see that there are huge benefits in completing the relevant training courses. With there often being fatal repercussions when accidents happen whilst working at height, this small investment of time will ultimately play a huge role in helping to reduce the number of injuries occurring every year.
To find out more information on the range of access solutions from WernerCo, visit wernerco.com/eu
To book your place on WernerCo’s approved ladder training course visit wernerco.com/eu/training
