IFAP Joins NECA WA to Enhance Electrical Apprenticeships
The new arrangement between IFAP, the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) of WA and the National Workforce Development Fund, is set to include IFAP’s training as part of their Electrical Apprenticeship Induction program.
This exciting new venture is the first of its kind in Australia, and will significantly contribute to ensuring Electrical Group Training (EGT) electrical apprentices’ are prepared for their new careers.
The idea was initiated by Jackie Madeley, Manager of Workplace Health and Safety at NECA, who identified an opportunity to improve the existing safety induction whilst also providing the apprentice with a valuable qualification.
During a review of the internal safety training provided to an apprentice throughout their first year, it was identified that a formal qualification in Health and Safety could be achieved which would significantly benefit the apprentices giving them better understanding of the risks involved in high risk work environments.
IFAP’s Certificate III in Occupational Health and Safety was selected and NECA have been working together with IFAP to adjust the content of this qualification so that it would be better tailored towards electrical apprentices. By using examples from the industry the training is interesting and more relevant, while maintaining the framework of Certificate III in Occupational Health and Safety.
“This new approach will ensure that prior to any workplace placement, EGT apprentices will be well equipped to understand and maintain their own and others safety needs in the workplace”, says Ms Madeley.
“When the new apprentices’ starts work, they are job ready having completed Elevated Working Platform; Working at Heights and Certificate III in Occupational Health and Safety training”.
This new approach is part of NECA WA’s long term strategy to achieve a strong safety culture throughout the Electrical and Communications industry.
Ms Madeley says “This is an excellent example of Good Safety making Good Business Sense – Not only will our apprentice receive a qualification that will be relevant for the whole of their working lives but EGT apprentices will be the first choice for many high risk construction and mining operations simply because they have formal safety qualifications”.
Project Statistics:
Australian Government $186,056
NECA WA $91,639
Total NWDF Investment $277,695