What to look for in a work at height training provider
If you or your employees operate powered access equipment or use alloy towers, training is a must. It ensures you work to the Health & Safety at Work Act and The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1988 (PUWER) and helps to protect you and others while preventing costly damage to equipment and property. It may also prove valuable in demonstrating that you took every possible safety precaution should any incident occur.
How do you decide who to go to for training though? There is so much choice. If you’re finding yourself confused, here our top tips for finding a work at height training provider.
Look for accreditations
When choosing a work at height training provider, find out what accreditations they hold. For powered access, the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) is a globally recognised organisation with over 750 approved training centres in almost 50 countries. They audit all their training centres regularly to ensure they conform to their exacting training standards, so it’s a safe place to start. The Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association (PASMA) is the equivalent for or mobile access towers. You can visit their websites to find out more and for a list of approved training centres.
Ask about possible grants
Training is a costly business, but there are grants available for employers looking to build employee skillsets. One example for work at height training is CITB training grants. They are available to those registered with the CITB and that meet their general terms and conditions, including using a CITB Approved Training Organisation – like us!
Read their testimonials
In the days of social media, it is easy to find out about companies online. It’s worthwhile doing a bit of digging and seeing what other people have to say about a training organisation before you book. Speaking to others in your industry and asking for recommendations is often the best way to begin.
Are they nice to deal with?
While we tend to view essential training as a chore, it doesn’t need to be. With the right company, it can be stress-free, convenient, and even fun. Notice whether they are friendly, approachable and able to answer any questions in a reasonable time frame. A company that is nice to deal with from the start is more likely to care about your training experience.
Look locally
Supporting local is especially important now with Covid-19 causing disruption to many businesses. Smaller companies need our support now more than ever and they can be some of the friendliest and best to work with.
Warren Access is a family run business, founded in 1993, with over 50 years of industry experience. We look after all our customers and trainees with honesty and integrity and value our personal approach to customer service. Whatever your needs, we will take the time to understand your requirements and provide the best possible option for you. We are IPAF and PASMA approved, a CITB ATO, and offer training from our Depots in Huntingdon and Newcastle as well at your premises in the UK.