A new training course designed to keep workers safe while using suspended access systems has been launched by the Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association (SAEMA).
The SAEMA Suspended Access Systems Operative Training Course aims to increase safety and standardise delivery of training for all members.
The first part of the course is a theory test that can be taken remotely by accessing SAEMA’s training website (training.saema.org), removing the need for a classroom test.
The theory test course gives users two opportunities to achieve the required results. The user must pass the multiple-choice theory test before they are certified to move to Part 2 – the practical on-site training, which has a standardised syllabus.
Upon passing Part 1 of the test, a certificate is sent to the user as proof of their accreditation. A copy can also be sent to the employer. The user is then also issued with a virtual card that is stored on their smartphone and can be checked by duty holders in real time when users arrive on site for Part 2 Training.
Following successful Part 2 on-site training, the virtual card will be endorsed with the site details that can also be checked in real time by duty holders to ensure that users are trained properly in the use the systems on site.
From last month, SAEMA member companies will only carry out on Part 2 site training for users who have completed the Part 1 course and had their virtual card verified.
This will be followed up with a specific duty holder awareness programme in 2021.
