Groundforce Training Services Set to Raise Industry Standards

04 Apr

Groundforce Training Services is the latest addition to a business, which has more than 25 years of experience as market leaders and innovators, supplying ground engineering equipment and temporary works solutions to the construction industry.

Located in Worksop, the training centre will include classrooms for theoretical training and workshops plus a 1400 sq ft. outdoor training area, which will provide delegates with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of installing ground support systems in a live environment.

There will be an option of one, or two-day structured courses, delivered by City and Guilds qualified trainers to a minimum level of PTLLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector). The courses will include a combination of classroom based understanding and workshops, together with practical training and assessments on real on-site scenarios. The Groundforce Training Services team will also offer bespoke courses, tailored to meet specific requirements.

The one-day course is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to excavation construction. The modules will include, the importance of supporting excavations, legislation relating to excavations, and health and safety laws. Working to temporary works design briefs, and the various types of proprietary shoring equipment and options available, will also be covered, together with works designs and installation methods.

The two-day course will cover more in-depth theoretical and practical elements of excavation safety. There will be an introduction to the HSE’s HSG150 guidance document, and the Construction Industry Research and Information Associations (CIRIA) report, looking at excavation safety. Delegates will learn to identify various ground types and understand various methods of ground retention systems, identify excavation hazards, together with introducing specific PPE and control measures to reduce these risks. This course also includes practical training and assessments, whilst installing ground support systems in a live environment, to a specific temporary works design. On completion of the course delegates will receive industry recognised accreditation.

All of the courses will examine why excavations fail, and look at bad practice and how it can be eliminated. With an increase in basement construction, from large residential schemes and private houses to major infrastructure projects, ensuring best practice and safety is paramount.

Simon Littlewood, Managing Director of Groundforce said, “The opening of this new training centre is a natural progression for our business, and it reinforces our commitment to help improve health and safety within the construction industry. Over the past five years we have introduced a comprehensive range of site-safety equipment, and we have worked closely with health and safety personnel from a number of the UK’s leading contractor’s trialling new products, as well as working with industry organisations to develop a range of training courses.”