09 February 2024     News

Develop Training, the UK’s leading accredited provider of compliance, technical, and safety training, is pleased to announce new training dates for its UKATA Asbestos Awareness course. In response to overwhelming demand we are offering two half-day virtual classroom training sessions on the 8th of April 2024 and the 18th of July 2024.

What to Expect:

1. Half-Day Virtual Classroom Delivery:
Attend the training from the comfort of your own environment. The course will be delivered via Microsoft Teams/Zoom by Ridgeway Environmental Ltd who are UKATA approved Professional Member Number 337.

2. Building Awareness and Knowledge:
The course aims to provide participants with a deep understanding of the hazards and risks associated with asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). By the end of the training, you will be equipped with the knowledge needed to identify, assess, and mitigate risks related to asbestos in various work environments.

What You’ll Learn About Asbestos:

Nature and Properties of Asbestos:
– Gain increased awareness of the nature and properties of asbestos.
– Understand the health effects, including the heightened risk of lung cancer for those who smoke and work with asbestos.

Types, Uses, and Occurrences of Asbestos:
– Become familiar with the various types and uses of asbestos in buildings and relevant plant items.
– Identify likely occurrences of asbestos and learn to navigate potential risks.

Risk Avoidance and Mitigation:
– Know where to access information on asbestos in premises before commencing work.
– Learn what steps to take if suspicious materials are discovered.
– Understand the importance of workplace precautions, including the risk assessment process.

Safe Work Practices:
– Undertake work activities safely, minimising risks to yourself and others.
– Comprehend key aspects of asbestos regulations within the broader context of health and safety legislation.

Emergency Preparedness:
– Understand procedures for unintentional contact with ACMs.
– Familiarise yourself with appropriate emergency arrangements.

Why do employees need asbestos awareness training?

Asbestos awareness is crucial for the well-being of employees and others affected by work activities. This course not only meets regulatory requirements but goes beyond, empowering individuals to contribute to a safer working environment.

Secure your spot on an online Asbestos Awareness training course

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and contribute to a safer workplace. Secure your spot for the upcoming training dates on the 8th of April 2024 and the 18th of July 2024. Limited spaces are available, so act fast!

For further information and to book your space, please visit: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/courses/asbestos-awareness/asbestos-awareness/

 

This UKATA course, that we are offering for sale, is sold under license from Ridgeway Environmental Ltd who are UKATA approved Professional Member Number 337 and Develop Training are not a UKATA Professional Member for this classification of training, Asbestos Awareness.

   06 February 2024     News

Develop Training, the UK’s leading accredited provider of compliance, technical, and safety training, is pleased to announce it will now deliver National Road and Street Works Act (NRSWA) courses from its Norwich location. 

The courses will be delivered at the new training centre that was recently opened in partnership with parent company, JTL.

As one of the few providers of NRSWA training in the local area, Develop is positioned to meet the growing demands for specialised training programmes in Norfolk.

Develop is fully equipped to deliver the NRSWA Reinstatement of the Highway (NRSWA Ops/Sups) course at the Norwich centre. The centre will host two full NRSWA courses on 11^th March and 29^th April, providing delegates with essential skills and knowledge required for working on new roads and streetworks.

In addition to NRSWA courses, Develop also offers a range of related courses, including:

• Utility Excavation (Category 1) Locate Utility Services – HSG47 (UE1) – Develop Training
• Utility Excavation (Category 2) Implement Safe (Digging) Excavating Practices (UE2) – Develop Training
• Abrasive Wheels – Grinders & Cut Off Saws (AWGC) – Develop Training
• Manual Handling for Operational Staff (MHO) – Develop Training

Develop’s commitment to excellence in compliance, technical and safety training ensures that delegates gain the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to meet industry standards and regulations.

Kate Denial, Cross Industry Training Manager at Develop, commented:

We are delighted for Develop to be one of a small number of exclusive providers for this NRSWA training in Norfolk and East Anglia. We are dedicated to delivering high-quality training to utility industry professionals across the UK, supporting them in achieving the required skills to meet compliance and safety standards.”

To find out more about Develop’s full range of street works (NRSWA) courses please visit: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/training/utilities/street-works/

6 February 2024     News

Introducing Tanya Crockett, the newest addition to our administrative team at our York centre. Prior to joining us, Tanya dedicated six years to a career in law enforcement. Her journey began in the demanding world of call handling, where quick thinking was essential. Despite the challenging nature of the role, Tanya handled distressing situations and troubling circumstances with resilience. This included navigating the occasional frustration of emergency lines being used for non-urgent requests such as taxi services and takeout orders!

Progressing in her policing career, Tanya went on to embrace the role of Police Community Support Officer (PCSO). In this capacity, she actively pursued thieves and shoplifters, contributing to the safety of the community. Tanya also took on the responsibility of running the ‘mini police officers’ programme in her local area, engaging with schools and educating children about law enforcement, the responsibilities of a good police officer, and the importance of foot patrols.

Following the birth of her daughter in 2022, Tanya decided it was time for a career change, and something that better suited her new lifestyle, hence her reason for joining Develop.

Outside of work, Tanya’s hands are full with her two-year-old daughter, Phoenix, and three Jack Russell Terrier dogs. She also enjoys regularly attending the gym.

5th February 2024     News

Our water systems & legionella training division is growing

We are pleased to introduce Kyle Whelan who has recently joined Develop as a Water Systems Trainer.

With a decade of experience in the water industry, Kyle previously served as a Water Treatment and Hygiene Technician before advancing to the position of a Service Chemist. In this role, he was responsible for conducting regular testing and analysis of cooling towers, steam boilers, and cooling systems. His extensive industry background has provided him with a profound understanding of water hygiene, legionella, and the associated risks when not managed correctly.

Motivated by a desire for change and a commitment to passing on his wealth of knowledge, Kyle has embarked on a new journey with Develop under the Emerge and Evolve programme. Starting on the ‘Emerge’ pathway, designed for individuals with significant industry expertise transitioning into the training arena, Kyle will undergo the necessary qualifications to enable him to educate the next generation. In the coming months, he will complete formal teaching certifications such as TAQA and Award in Education & Training, along with various technical training courses offered by Develop.

Throughout this process, Kyle will also be guided and supported by his mentor and fellow Water Systems & Legionella Trainer, Dan Sutherland.

Outside of work Kyle takes pride in being a devoted father of two, and spending quality time playing with his children is his favourite post-work activity.

   05 February 2024         Blogs

Authorised Person courses can help those operating in a Competent Person role to elevate their career to the next level. The qualification can also be an add-on to an existing role for those working as an Estates Officer or a Supervisor. The courses allow individuals to supervise other members of the team or take on greater responsibilities on-site to ensure a safe working environment. These courses also benefit the wider business by providing assurance that the team is operating on-site in a compliant manner.

The purpose of Authorised Person courses

Develop Training’s Authorised Person courses are designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to manage, operate and maintain the electrical systems they work with safely.

All courses are City & Guild’s accredited and designed in accordance with the required legal guidelines, such as Electricity at Work Regulations 1998. This ensures that the learning materials are in-line with industry standards and provides assured quality for the business that the delegate is working as part of.

The qualification serves as a gateway for professionals seeking to expand their current responsibilities and skillset, as well as contribute to the overall safety of their working environment.

Sector-specific and bespoke AP courses

Develop’s Authorised Person courses span across areas including Healthcare (AP5 & AP6), Ministry of Defence (MoD) Estates and Facilities (AP1) and Industrial and Commercial (AP15), as well as Low Voltage (AP12) and High Voltage (AP15b) qualifications.

For those operating in healthcare environments, Develop’s sector-specific Authorised Person courses cover the updated HTM 06-03 and 06-02 guidelines, ensuring that individuals are qualified to supervise on-site and are equipped with the knowledge around the design, installation and maintenance of a variety of healthcare technologies.

The MoD Estates and Facilities Authorised Person course includes crucial learning materials, such as Mandatory Safety Regulations and procedures from JSP 375 Vol. 3, that delegates can apply to their working environment.

In addition, Develop’s Commercial Authorised Person course helps delegates to comprehend the compliance needed for practical work through training around legal guidelines, such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

A blended approach to skill development

When undertaking training, we understand that being classroom-based allows delegates to learn in an interactive environment, providing key opportunities to receive immediate feedback from the course trainer.

Our workshop-centric learning approach continues to play a significant role in the training and assessment stages of our Authorised Person courses. Delegates benefit from being able to ask our trainers about any queries they have, while being exposed to real-life scenarios from the trainers’ expertise.

Benefits of Authorised Person courses for delegates

Undertaking an Authorised Person course with Develop offers numerous advantages for delegates, such as:

1. Gaining a deeper understanding of industry legislation, ensuring compliance and adherence to safety regulations for that particular industry
2. Developing the ability to enhance communication with team members through a shared knowledge base and a common understanding of required safety guidelines
3. Learning at an adaptable pace with the flexibility of blended training, accommodating for busy working schedules
4. Acquiring the ability to apply safety guidelines in real-world scenarios, creating a safer working environment for both the delegate and their wider team
5. Gaining real-world knowledge from highly experienced trainers, providing insights and practical knowledge essential for career development and growth

Benefits of Authorised Person courses for businesses

Businesses are equally able to benefit from putting their team members forward to undertake one of our Authorised Person courses, including:

1. Opportunity to have a Bespoke Training designed by Develop that is tailored to the specific requirements and safety systems of the business
2. Ensuring compliance with industry legislations and guidelines, mitigating risks around health and safety practices of those working on the premises
3. Receiving an independent recommendation of an employee’s suitability as an Authorised Person, validating their competence and upskilling the current workforce
4. Improving the documentation, communication and enforcement of safe working procedures, contributing to an elevated and compliant work environment

Develop offers a range of Authorised Person courses across a wide-range of sectors, covering:

• AUTHORISED PERSON: HIGH VOLTAGE (INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL) (AP15)
• AUTHORISED PERSON: HIGH VOLTAGE (AP15B)
• AUTHORISED PERSON: MECHANICAL SYSTEMS (BOILER AND PRESSURE SYSTEMS) (AP11)
• AUTHORISED PERSON: CONFINED SPACES (MOD) (APCS (MOD))
• AUTHORISED PERSON: CONFINED SPACES REFRESHER (APCS-R)
• AUTHORISED PERSON: WORKING AT HEIGHT (APWAH)
• AUTHORISED PERSON: LOW VOLTAGE HEALTHCARE (AP5)
• AUTHORISED PERSON: HIGH VOLTAGE (HEALTHCARE) (AP6)
• AUTHORISED PERSON: LOW VOLTAGE (AP12)

Those operating as a Competent Person can take the next step in their career by undertaking an Authorised Person course to unlock a new set of skills, gain increased responsibility and improve the safety of the working environment that their team operates in.

To find out more about the Authorised Person training courses that Develop offers, please visit here: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/training/estates-and-facilities-management/electrical-and-mechanical/

Our locations

High Voltage electrical training can be delivered at our York, Swindon and Scotland training centres.

Low Voltage electrical training can be delivered at the majority of our training centres including York, Essex, Derby, Birmingham, Norwich and Swindon. View Develop’s centre locations here: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/about-us/our-locations/

We also have use of all our parent company, JTL’s UK-wide centres, including those in Hull, Nottingham, Orpington, Oxford & Yeovil. For the full list of JTL centres please visit: https://jtltraining.com/about-us/location-centres/

   05 February 2024     News

National Apprenticeship Week: 5th -9th February 2024

Hi there, my name is Eleanor Hurt and I’ve worked at Develop Training since April 2022. As a member of the marketing team my role provides me with a lot of variation and exciting projects. I am also learning ‘on the job’ as I’m currently completing my Level 4 Marketing Apprenticeship with Apprentify.

Here’s a little insight into what a week in the life of a Marketing Apprentice at Develop is like:

Monday

The first thing I do on a Monday is to have a meeting with my manager, Stacey, to discuss and plan the week ahead. I personally prefer to have a to-do list I can work through and this is my opportunity to create that and get the week off to an organised start!

I later met with Ben Blessett, a Streetworks Trainer at Develop to talk through all our NRSWA Streetworks training. I’m creating two flowcharts for our customers to help them select the right training courses for their needs, so Ben talked me through all the options and who each course is suitable for.

After my meeting with Ben, I then had to turn the notebook scribbles into two on-brand and easy-to-follow flowcharts that are suitable for customers. For this I used Adobe InDesign; I really enjoy the graphic design aspects of my role but I’m still learning so this took me most of the day to complete.

Once they were both ready, I sent them to Stacey and she checks over them before I create a landing page in HubSpot ready for our customers to download them.

If you want to take a look at the flowcharts, you can find them here and here.

Tuesday

JTL’s Eastbourne training centre is having its official opening on Thursday 8^th February and Develop will be attending with a stand to promote our short courses. Stacey is attending this event along with Develop’s Key Account Manager, Nichola Kitching. In preparation, Stacey and I got a range of stands and promotional materials out of our marketing storage room and assembled it all to decide what would be the best fit for the space we have.

In the afternoon, I drafted our social media plan for the next two weeks. For this I look at the business focuses and the content we’ve recently published on the website, such as blogs, news articles, course updates etc. I then draft the posts along with the visual assets before passing them over to Stacey for her to check. Once they’re approved I’ll schedule them on our social channels using HubSpot.

Wednesday

On Wednesday, I travelled up to our York site with Stacey to meet with Brandon Clark, an F-Gas Trainer at Develop. We’ve recently re-launched our F-Gas Category 1 training course and part of the marketing plan for this is to have some short videos of Brandon offering tips and advice for those who work with fluorinated gases. We spent most of the morning doing the filming and then we’ll edit them back at the office before posting them on our website and social channels in the coming weeks.

Whilst we were in York, I also met with Tanya Crockett who has recently joined as a Centre Coordinator. We had a quick chat and I made some notes ready to draft her new starter article for our internal comms channels, website and socials.

Thursday

It was great to be back in the office today so I could actually get some work done! Following on from Wednesday’s filming, I began by using Adobe Premier Pro to edit the videos we had filmed. I really enjoy doing this because, although I’m nowhere near an expert, I’m really enjoying having the opportunity to learn such a complex piece of software.

We also had some more new starters in the business today, so I interviewed them for their news articles and talked to them about what we do in the marketing department.

Later in the day I drafted some promotional emails in HubSpot for distribution throughout February.

Friday

Friday’s are my dedicated apprenticeship day and I have my calendar blocked out all day to ensure I get uninterrupted learning time to focus. Develop are also paying for me to do my CIM qualification in addition to my apprenticeship and I’m really grateful for this opportunity because, although it’s hard work, it’s a great addition to my CV.

That’s it…the end of the week – phew! Being a marketing apprentice at an SME is definitely a full-on job but the way I look at it is I’m lucky to get exposure to such a broad range of marketing tasks and to have the opportunity to get involved in things that apprentices at larger organisations don’t get to.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about my week, and if you’re ever at Develop’s Derby centre please stop and say hello!

   02 February 2024     News

January has come to a close, and we’re thrilled to cap off the month with Develop being showcased on yet another prominent industry platform. This time, we’re featured on Elemental, a top publisher dedicated to sharing insights, perspectives, and solutions on achieving net zero with professionals in the built environment.

In the article, our Head of Operations & Training, Matthew Gray, outlines how Develop, part of the JTL Group, is set to assist employers in future-proofing their teams’ skillsets. From expanding from 6 to 18 training centres to introducing green skills training, Develop is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and flexible approach to lifelong learning in the building services engineering sector.

Read the full article here: https://www.elementaldigital.co.uk/our-offering-is-going-to-help-employers-future-proof-their-teams-skillset/

To view our range of training courses for the Building Services Engineering sector, please click here: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/training/building-services-engineering/

   02 February 2024     News

We regret to inform you that our online booking system is currently experiencing technical difficulties.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. During this time, we kindly request you to reach out to us via phone at 0800 876 6708 or email us at enquiries@developtraining.co.uk for assistance.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to resolve these issues promptly.

   01 February 2024         Blogs

Brandon Clark, a seasoned refrigeration and air conditioning engineer at Develop Training, the UK’s leading accredited provider of compliance, technical and safety training, sheds light on the pivotal role that F-Gas qualifications play in meeting the heating and plumbing industry’s growing demands.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) sectors, the role of F-Gas maintenance has become increasingly instrumental to meeting the growing requirements of the industry and to align with new net-zero targets set by the UK government.

As the UK strives to reduce CO2 equivalents by 21% by 2030*, the demand for qualified professionals in the HVACR industry is reaching unprecedented levels and therefore widening the existing skills gap.

What does Net Zero mean for F-Gas Regulations?

To form part of the UK government’s net zero ambitions, new installation targets for heat pumps have been set, which has increased the need for F-Gas qualified engineers. The heating and plumbing industry is moving away from the use of traditional boilers, and replacing them with heat pumps, which have been found to be three times more efficient than fossil fuel boilers.**

Due to their high efficiency, heat pumps are now being installed in a lot of new build sites instead of boilers. The use of natural gas contributes to approximately 20% of greenhouse gas emissions from the UK***, so the shift to lower carbon heating methods, such as heat pumps, is well founded for this reason.

Indeed, to meet the UK government’s net zero commitments, it is estimated that over 20,000 homes every week will need to switch from traditional heating methods to low-carbon heating methods between 2025 and 2050, to ensure those targets are met***. This surge in demand necessitates a skilled workforce capable of installing and maintaining these eco-friendly systems.

Gas Engineers need to upskill and become F-Gas qualified

Becoming F-Gas qualified is not merely a checkbox activity, but is crucial for future-proofing the HVACR workforce, ensuring it remains adept at handling cutting-edge technologies to align with the government’s goals of improving the energy efficiency of buildings.

For current gas engineers, upskilling has become imperative to stay on-top of these industry shifts. Becoming F-Gas qualified is key to mastering new technologies and techniques that define the future of the HVACR industry.

The evolving renewable energy sector and the roll-out of energy efficient products such as the increased heat pump deployment further highlights the need for a skilled workforce, comprised of new and existing professionals, equipped with the knowledge to navigate and maintain these emerging green technologies.

Available F-Gas training

At Develop, our Cat 1 F-Gas training course is one of our most popular and we have recently relaunched the course, certified under the City & Guilds 2079-11 scheme, to tie in with the growth of the F-Gas industry. The course spans over five days and is delivered from our York, Derby and Linlithgow centres. However, the course equipment is mobile, so we are also able to deliver the training at any of our centres or, alternatively, travel directly on-site to customers too.

As the trainer of the relaunched course, it’s important for me to provide delegates with a wide range of essential theoretical, practical and green skills that they are able to take away and apply to F-Gas containing equipment in-line with EU Guidelines and regulations. I have previously been in the delegates’ position and therefore I always make sure I am providing the knowledge and understanding that I once required to those that I am now training.”

As the HVACR industry grapples with the challenges of climate change, these certifications are not just credentials—they are the building blocks of a workforce capable of steering the sector towards a sustainable and environmentally-conscious future, while contributing towards the wider net zero targets from the UK government.

To find out more about Develop’s F-Gas course or to sign up for training, please visit: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/courses/electrical-and-mechanical/f-gas

To learn more about F-Gases and how the regulations affect your business, take a look at the latest blog posts on the subject here: www.developtraining.co.uk/blogs

 

 

* https://netregs.org.uk/

** https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1148252/powering-up-britain-energy-security-plan.pdf

*** https://www.nationalgrid.com/stories/energy-explained/what-is-a-heat-pump

   24 January 2024     News

A recent report highlighting a 22% increase in fatal incidents within the UK construction industry during the 2022/23 period demands urgent attention and collective action. The data underscores the critical need for comprehensive safety measures to mitigate risks, with falls from heights being the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal incidents in the construction sector.

As providers of essential training for those in the building services engineering sector, it is imperative to address this issue head-on and work towards fostering a culture of safety. In this response, we explore some simple strategies that companies can adopt to prevent accidents on construction sites.

1. Prioritise Working at Height Training

Half of all deaths on site are due to a fall from height. This statistic underscores the alarming prevalence of falls from heights, making it essential for companies to prioritise comprehensive working at height safety training. Training programmes should encompass the identification of potential hazards, the correct use of safety equipment, and the importance of risk assessments. Training will also ensure that employers and their employees understand the requirements of the relevant Legislation, specifically the Working at Height Regulations.

Ensuring that workers are well-versed in safe work practices at elevated positions is fundamental to reducing the incidence of fatal falls.

Need working at height training? Develop offer two WAH courses:

• Safe Working at Height
• Authorised Person: Working at Height

2. Equipment Selection & Regular Equipment Inspections

Using the correct equipment is essential in preventing falls and other accidents. Regularly inspecting and maintaining safety equipment, such as harnesses and scaffolding, is crucial. Companies must establish a robust system for equipment checks to identify and rectify any potential issues promptly. This proactive approach can significantly contribute to preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of workers at all times.

3. Mitigate Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls account for a quarter of all injuries in the construction industry. To address this, companies should prioritise and manage good housekeeping by keeping work environments clean, dry, well-lit, and free of obstacles. Immediate cleanup of spillages and thorough deep cleaning after working hours can minimise the risk of accidents. By implementing these simple yet effective measures, companies can create safer working conditions and reduce the number of injuries.

4. Machinery Safety Measures

Installing safety guards on machinery and providing workers with suitable and sufficient PPE, such as safety goggles, are critical steps in preventing accidents caused by equipment. Ensuring that all machinery adheres to safety standards and providing adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential. By fostering a culture of machinery safety, companies can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents related to equipment operation.

5. Proper Storage and Handling

Storing heavy objects close to the ground, implementing debris nets, use of tool tethers, and discouraging the unsafe practice of throwing tools are essential steps in preventing accidents on construction sites. Establishing clear guidelines for the storage and handling of materials in line with COSHH regulations can contribute to a safer working environment and reduce the risk of injuries caused by falling objects.

The rise in fatal incidents within the UK construction industry demands immediate and concerted efforts to enhance safety practices. Training, proper pre-planning and management, equipment maintenance, and a commitment to creating hazard-free environments are pivotal in preventing accidents on construction sites. As training providers, it is incumbent upon us to reinforce the importance of safety education and empower workers with the knowledge and skills needed to protect themselves and their colleagues. By embracing a proactive approach, the industry can strive towards a significant reduction in the number of incidents, creating a safer and more secure working environment for all.

Need health & safety training?

At Develop Training we’ve health & safety courses to meet the training needs of every employee in the building services engineering and construction sectors. We deliver the majority of our training at centres across the UK including: Derby, Swindon, York, Essex, Manchester, Norwich, Birmingham & Linlithgow in Scotland, however, we can also deliver onsite training if required.

Click here to view our full range of health and safety training courses or here for our full range of training for those in the building services engineering industry.

Alternatively, you can speak to our Customer Service team on 0800 876 6708 or email enquiries@developtraining.co.uk.