Training initiative raises the bar in equipment-hire industry

Well-known equipment rental company A-Plant recently announced that, as part of its plan launched last year to enhance the skills and qualifications of employees at all levels of its business, 180 staffers have so far gained a formal NVQ qualification.

As part of the company’s ‘Skilled and Qualified Workforce Programme’ three NVQ courses are offered through an OSAT (On Site Assessment and Training) Programme. Since the programme was launched more than 50 per cent of A-Plant’s driver population have achieved the NVQ Level 2 in Carry and Deliver Goods; more than 80 per cent of rental managers have successfully achieved the NVQ Level 2 in Hire and Rental Operations; and almost half of the company’s fitters have completed the NVQ Level 2 in Plant Maintenance.

A-Plant’s talent and organisational culture manager Gràinne Patterson said: “This initiative forms a key part of our People Management strategy, as it firmly establishes A-Plant as the leading employer in our industry in terms of demonstrating high levels of skills and qualifications among our workforce.

“Feedback from our learners indicates that they are very positive about having the opportunity to develop their skills and gain a nationally recognised qualification. Our focus has been on accrediting and certifying demonstrable practical skills rather than adopting a purely theoretical or academic approach, and our efforts are designed to deliver improved levels of performance in both the current and future roles of our workforce.”