How PASMA Training can help the construction industry avoid lawsuits

BritanniaSafety
August 15, 2012

Since the 2005 Work at Height Regulations came into effect, there has been a more conscious effort being made in the construction industry to reduce the number of deaths and injuries from height. With statistics from the Health and Safety Executive showing that falls from height still tops the list of fatalities and injuries in the workplace, there is no wonder that the HSE is making a conscious effort to promote and campaign for the safe way of working at height.

The work at height regulations state that duty holders must ensure:

– All work at height is properly planned and organised

– Those involved in work at height are competent

This ‘duty’ is where the law and possible personal injury claims come in. When someone is injured at work, and it is deemed to ‘not be their fault’ and the blame is placed on their employer or supervisor it would be possible for them to make a claim. As the authority is seen as being negligent towards their employee they have the right to claim for compensation to cover any costs incurred.

There are a number of ways to meet the working at height regulations, all companies should have a secure health and safety system and policy which their staff understand and also there are a certain number of training courses which staff members can be sent on to cover the second part of the legislation – that they are competent to work at height.

One training course which falls into this bracket is the PASMA training course.

PASMA stands for ‘Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association’. They are the recognised authority for mobile access towers and advances in safety, standards and best practice in this area.

Their training course is based on the Health and Safety Executive’s Working at Height Regulations – making it perfect for employers in the construction industry to ensure that they are correctly operating within the law.

There are a range of level and areas PASMA training covers. These include: W Work at height essentials, L Low level access, T Standard tower and A1 Advanced: roof scaffold.

At the end of a PASMA training course all the delegates are presented with a PASMA certificate and ID card. This serves as an official document of their training.

Around the UK, from Norfolk to Northern Ireland, there are many different training companies that offer PASMA training. Nevertheless, the course structure and layout have to be very similar to ensure the standard of teaching is consistent.

While PASMA training is important for new employees, you may whish to consider sending some of your more experienced workers on a course as well to refresh their knowledge.

About the author: Britannia Safety and Training are leading providers of PASMA Training Courses in Norfolk. Their industry experienced trainers know how to put the theory into practice and the state of the art training venue with over 6000m² of space is custom built for purpose.