Traditionally, some organisations have seen the attendance of an employee on a recognised training course, or the passing of an external exam, as sufficient evidence of competence.
Specialist training courses are available as well as bespoke programmes, with individual elements lasting from two to 10 days depending on the previous knowledge and experience of the candidates. Delivery is either at one of seven specialist training centres located throughout the UK, or on-site depending on suitable practical facilities being available. Candidates who successfully complete the assessment process receive nationally recognised certificates.
Healthcare premises, in particular, contain many critical engineering systems. The new suite of HTM (01 – 08) identifies eight key areas: decontamination, medical gases, heating and ventilation systems, water systems, fire safety, electrical systems, environment and sustainability, and specialist services. All of these systems require competent staff, at various levels, to design, install and operate them safely and efficiently.
Steve Martin, Develop Training’s business director of the Electrical, Mechanical and Building Services Division, commented: “Healthcare engineering staff faces a continuing challenge in trying to demonstrate and maintain competence. The development and introduction of new, high-tech equipment, combined with the demands of new statutory regulations and their associated guidance documents place an increasing burden on staff at all levels to stay in touch and remain competent.
“In recent times, the pace of new technology has placed a strain on the learning abilities of engineering maintenance staff,” he added. “The integration of this technology comes at a time when there are increasing demands on the individual to adapt to new roles and changing working structures. This may mean that the traditional practice of “one-off” initial training and subsequent on-site updating is now insufficient on its own to meet the complexities of today’s demands.”
