sixmthcertsmall_loEWPANZ is often asked 'how can we tell if the machines on our site are compliant?' This question usually comes from those who have received the Department of Labour's advice that employers and other dutyholders under the HSE Act cannot simply rely on a certificate and must satisfy themselves that persons carrying out inspections are competent. Failure to take these steps puts you in breach of the Act and may also void your insurance. Such advice often causes panic - how is a lay person to know what's safe and what's not? 

 

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Use Only Standards-Based EWP Operator Training

nzqaEWPANZ has fielded numerous inquiries recently regarding EWP Operator Training, mostly centred on what the requirements are for such training. The short answer to this question is that you should only consider training delivered and moderated to NZQA standards by an accredited provider. To do otherwise is likely a waste of money and, worst case, may expose you to significant liability. Details of the EWP Operator training standards and their accredited providers can be found here. These were developed by the industry in conjunction with the Opportunity Training Organisation, which is now the standard-setting body.

Why Standards-based Training?
The reasons for using standards-based training are relatively straightforward. The standards define the core requirements of competency and the moderation process ensures that this content is properly delivered. Other training may or may not include the required content. However, even if it does, without a formal and independent moderation and quality assurance process via an accredited provider you have no evidence that adequate training has been provided.
In the event of an accident involving one of your staff, or even at the simple request of a DOL inspector, the onus is on an employer to provide evidence that training has been adequate. By itself, a simple card or certificate does not constitute such evidence. As in other areas, you must have satisfied yourself that such training is adequate. Ensuring that the training is standards-based is the only straight-forward and reliable means of doing this.

Other Training
Although some specialist older standards exist for electrical utilities, arborculture and horticulture, these are not adequate for general purpose EWP training, but may be useful industry-specific supplements.
A number of other non standards based schemes have been used in the past and the Department of Labour undertook to recognise schemes (where properly documented and quality-assured) during a phase in period, agreeing that such credentials be treated as valid until until expiry. However, the Unit Standards have now been in place for almost three years and training that does not employ then should not be considered.
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EWPANZ 2010 AGM

The Hon. Kate Wilkinson, Minister of Labour, opened a very well attended 2010 EWPANZ AGM on 28 May with an address on health and safety.
This was followed by a lively question and answer session and then the AGM itself. Proceedings of the AGM will be circulated soon but, meanwhile, a copy of the Minister's speech notes may be found here.
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2010 Annual General Meeting

kate-wilkinson-223The keynote speaker at the 2010 EWPANZ AGM will be the Hon. Kate Wilkinson, Minister of Labour.

The AGM will be held 9am, Friday 28 May 2010 at Site Safe, Level 1, 31 Maurice Rd, Penrose, Auckland.

The Minister will be speaking at 9.00am sharp and seating is limited so please This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and turn up on time.

For more information, contact Yvonne on 0274829094 or by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

 

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