Boiler training

‘More support is needed for gas engineers’

Gas engineers who invest in themselves and in the industry need more support, according to the Installers First ‘Gas Engineer Training & Skills Assembly’ event, which took place on 7 February 2018.

The event offered an opportunity for those present to discuss current issues surrounding the training and skills of gas engineers, and to identify how the industry can work together to address them.

Speaking after the event, Laurah Hutchinson-Strain, head of media for Installers First, said: “We heard from industry figures about all of the great work that has been done – and continues to be done – in relation to the training and skills of gas engineers. I believe those in attendance will agree that the industry is moving in the right direction. Following our event, we have a greater understanding of how industry can work together on issues such as consumer awareness and supporting those who do want to join the industry to select the right training.

“Gas engineers have a huge responsibility to ensure that the work they do and the appliances they work on are safe. We need to help those who help themselves by making it harder for the ‘cowboys’ to operate. Making sure that the first step into the industry – the training of new gas engineers – is fit for purpose is crucial.”

High on the agenda was discussion of the Gas Engineer Training & Skills Inquiry (GETSI) into gas engineer training standards. GETSI aims to create a level playing field for gas engineers and to tackle the issues surrounding short training courses for new entrants into the industry.

Laurah says: ”To achieve this, gas engineers doing the job, today, must be involved. If you would like to have your say and feed into the inquiry, get in touch with benjamin.klos@policyconnect.org.uk.”

There was also discussing around greater government funding for the training of gas engineers, as well as creating a nationally-accredited register of training providers.

The event was sponsored by Sentinel Performance Solutions. Trade marketing manager Daniel Cheung says: “Sentinel Performance Solutions is passionate about promoting best practice heating system maintenance and installation. We want to support the professional accredited heating engineer and shine a spotlight on those that look to cut corners. The Gas Engineer Training & Skills Assembly supports that aim.”

Installers First is a subdivision of the Heating & Hotwater Industry Council.

www.installersfirst.co.uk

 

 

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