A new initiative has been launched by the Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA).

The 'Qualifying the Workforce' project is funded with £50k from industry body CITB Construction Skills and is set to benefit SPOA, its member companies and the 15,000 people they employ in Scotland.

The scheme will see a SPOA representative work with officials and other industry bodies to set and raise standards of competence for plant operators, plant mechanics (fitters) and other occupations directly related to plant and equipment.

There are four specific outcomes being sought from the 'Qualifying the Workforce' project. This includes:


•Increasing the number of people in the Plant Industry who are Vocationally Qualified (VQ) to Level 2 or above

•Increasing the number of apprenticeships and apprentices in the industry

•Helping with preparation for Level 2 VQs

•Working with people who have already achieved Level 2VQ or above to further advance and develop their skills and abilities to manage, train others, and improve the businesses they are employed by explaining the aim behind the initiative.

Phil Ford, Skills Strategy Manager at CITB Construction Skills, said: "We are proud to be able to fund such a key initiative in the construction industry. The 'Qualifying the Workforce' initiative will enable more people in the sector to achieve a VQ at level 2 or above and develop skills and abilities of the workforce as a whole. By undertaking this initiative the SPOA will be able to draw on the information they receive to recommend and develop an industry standard for qualifications and training."

The SPOA, with the support of CITB Construction Skills, is encouraging every member company, their employees, the Health and Safety Executive, colleges who provide training and contractors who hire plant and equipment to contribute with their support and leadership.

(JP)