The best training courses for uk contractors in 2024

The Best Training Courses for UK Contractors in 2024

As the construction and contracting industries in the UK continue to evolve, it is essential for contractors to stay up to date with the latest skills, qualifications, and safety standards. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, investing in the right training courses can make a significant difference to your career, helping you stay compliant with regulations, enhance your skill set, and improve your marketability. With 2024 fast approaching, now is the perfect time to consider which courses will offer the most value for contractors in the UK. Below, we explore some of the best training options available.

1. CITB Site Safety Plus Courses

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is a leading organisation for training in the construction sector. Their Site Safety Plus courses are highly regarded and essential for contractors looking to improve their understanding of health and safety regulations.

The most popular options include:

• Health and Safety Awareness (HSA): Ideal for those new to the industry, this one-day course introduces the basic principles of construction site safety and is a requirement for obtaining a CSCS Green Labourer Card.

• Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS): A five-day course designed for site managers, this qualification provides comprehensive knowledge of construction site health and safety management.

• Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS): Aimed at supervisors, this two-day course focuses on the specific responsibilities of a supervisor in ensuring safety on-site.

These courses are recognised across the UK and are frequently required by employers, making them a valuable investment for any contractor.

2. NVQ Diplomas in Construction

For contractors looking to enhance their qualifications, an NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) is a widely respected option. NVQs are competency-based qualifications that assess your ability to perform your job role to the required standard.

Some of the most relevant NVQ courses for contractors include:

• NVQ Level 2 in Construction Operations: This course covers practical skills such as concreting, drainage, and general construction operations. It is an excellent starting point for those in hands-on roles.

• NVQ Level 3 in Occupational Work Supervision: For contractors looking to step into supervisory roles, this qualification focuses on leadership, safety, and managing work teams on construction sites.

• NVQ Level 6 in Construction Site Management: For experienced professionals, this advanced course is designed for those in senior management roles. It covers planning, project management, and health and safety at a strategic level.

NVQs can be completed while working, making them a flexible option for contractors who want to continue earning while they learn.

3. First Aid Training

First aid is a critical skill on any construction site, and many employers require contractors to have basic first aid qualifications. Several providers offer Emergency First Aid at Work courses, which are usually completed in one day and cover essential skills such as CPR, dealing with injuries, and managing medical emergencies.

For those looking to take their training further, the First Aid at Work (FAW) course is a more comprehensive three-day programme that covers a wider range of scenarios and provides a more in-depth understanding of medical emergencies on-site. Having a qualified first aider on-site is often a legal requirement, making this training a valuable addition to any contractor's skill set.

4. Asbestos Awareness Training

Asbestos is still present in many older buildings across the UK, and exposure to this hazardous material can lead to serious health issues. For contractors working on renovation, demolition, or maintenance projects, Asbestos Awareness Training is not just beneficial but often mandatory.

The UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) offers accredited courses that provide contractors with the knowledge they need to identify asbestos, understand the risks associated with it, and know how to handle it safely. These courses are typically short and can be completed online, making them convenient for busy professionals.

5. PASMA and IPAF Training

For contractors who regularly work at height, PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers' and Manufacturers' Association) and IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) training are essential qualifications. These courses provide essential skills for safely assembling and using mobile access towers and powered access equipment such as cherry pickers and scissor lifts.

• PASMA Training: This one-day course teaches contractors how to safely assemble, dismantle, and inspect mobile access towers. It is a legal requirement for anyone working with these structures.

• IPAF Training: Available in categories such as 1a, 1b, 3a, and 3b, this course focuses on the safe operation of powered access equipment. The training covers the use of different machines and includes practical assessments.

Both PASMA and IPAF qualifications are recognised across the UK and are essential for ensuring compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

6. Temporary Works Co-ordinator Training

Temporary works are a crucial aspect of many construction projects, and the Temporary Works Co-ordinator (TWC) training course is ideal for contractors involved in planning, managing, or supervising temporary works on-site. This course, accredited by CITB, provides a comprehensive understanding of the legal and practical responsibilities of managing temporary works, including scaffolding, formwork, and excavation supports.

This training is particularly relevant for contractors in supervisory or management roles, as it helps ensure that temporary works are planned and executed safely, reducing the risk of accidents on-site.

7. Environmental Awareness and Sustainability Training

With the increasing focus on sustainability in the construction industry, contractors are now expected to have a strong understanding of environmental regulations and practices. Courses such as the CITB Environmental Awareness training or BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) provide contractors with the knowledge they need to minimise their environmental impact and ensure compliance with regulations such as the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Sustainability is becoming a key factor in winning contracts, particularly for government projects, so this training can give contractors a competitive edge.

Conclusion

The UK contracting industry is becoming increasingly competitive and regulated, making it more important than ever for contractors to stay up to date with the latest qualifications and skills. From health and safety to environmental awareness, there are a wide range of training courses available in 2024 that can help contractors improve their knowledge, enhance their career prospects, and ensure compliance with industry standards.

By investing in the right training, contractors can not only boost their employability but also contribute to a safer, more efficient, and sustainable construction industry in the UK.