The HVCA has announced the introduction of the Engineering Services SKILLcard for members of the hvac industry.
Due to be launched officially in September, the card scheme is similar to the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme created by the JIB two years ago as a replacement for the UK register of electricians. The cards will list the operative's qualifications and be coloured according to their level of expertise.

The SKILLcard is intended to satisfy the increasing demand for specialist contractors to demonstrate the competence of their workers and to meet forthcoming regulations. The Construction Confederation's Major Contractors Group (MCG) recently announced that all workers on MCG sites must be in possession of skills certification cards by 2003, and has set a target of 40% for the end of 2001.

The SKILLcard will be affiliated to the pan-industry Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) and it will not be necessary for card-holders to register separately with the CSCS.

Benefits of operative registration to employers include raised workforce awareness of health and safety and an ability to demonstrate the competence of staff to potential clients.

The industry accreditation route to registration will be open to skilled operatives without recognised formal qualifications for an unspecified limited period.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor