Sep 6 2005
The UK Timber Frame Association (UKTFA) is launching an unique open learning training and accreditation scheme for timber frame erectors that leads to a qualification accredited by City & Guilds and that is recognised by all the leading manufacturers in the industry.
Timber frame erectors can apply to train and be assessed at three different levels, depending on their current experience and skills. Bronze level acts as an induction programme to those new to the industry, while Silver is suitable for the vast majority of site-based staff who are already involved in the construction of timber frame homes. Gold level is for team leaders and those involved with multi-level complex timber frame buildings.
The Gold award is the highest level qualification of its type in Europe. Each level of the qualification focuses on relevant health and safety issues, technical knowledge and practical skills.
Bryan Woodley, chief executive of the UK Timber Frame Association said: “Standards on site are improving year on year. However, by 2010 we expect to see major housebuilders and other clients of the timber frame industry demanding a fully qualified workforce. Eventually only timber frame erectors with the necessary UKTFA qualifications will be employed on site.
“This new certificate in timber frame erection, accredited by the world’s foremost authority for such skills qualifications, City & Guilds, allows site operatives to start planning their future. It also opens up a good career path and development route to new entrants and for those who wish to progress within the industry.”
The qualification will be launched at an industry event next Tuesday (6 September 2005) headed by Dennis Lenard, chief executive of Constructing Excellence.
A pilot programme in Scotland earlier this year has proved very successful, with over 170 erectors registered and well over half already assessed with pass marks ranging between 82% and 100%. The programme has been developed with financial support from European Social Fund Objective 3 for Scotland and Scottish Enterprise. Thanks to this support, the cost of applying for the qualification is extremely cost effective at under £20 per person. For this application fee the candidate receives a CD Rom containing all the necessary workbooks relevant to his or her level of entry, registration on the programme, technical and mentoring support by the assessor and other support until formal notification of their results. On successful completion, the candidate pays a fee of £20 covering three years' registration to the UKTFA and City & Guilds standards, and will then receive the UKTFA’s ‘Site-Mark’ card and a free copy of the new Absolutely Essential Health and Safety Toolkit for timber frame construction. To ensure standards are maintained, re-registration is required at the end of the period, and subject to a satisfactory review, a new ‘Site-Mark' card will be issued for the next three years.
“This initiative will help the UKTFA ensure that standards and skills levels are of the highest order. It will build confidence throughout the supply chain, make a difference where it really matters, and help the construction industry respond to society’s continuing demand for high quality timber frame buildings,” said Bryan Woodley. The UKTFA is also currently developing similar qualifications for people involved in the design and manufacture of timber frame buildings.
These will be launched next year, leading to two new levels of UKTFA accreditation to be called 'Design-Mark' and 'Frame-Mark'.