BCAS launches industry-first NVQ for skilled compressed air engineers

THE BRITISH Compressed Air Society (BCAS) has launched its new NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Installation and Commissioning - an industry first that enables experienced compressed air technicians to prove their professional skills and gain a recognised qualification.

The NVQ was developed in part to address the competency concerns raised by the Construction Leadership Council regarding personnel working on construction sites. The resulting Compressed Air Pathway is recognised by the Building Engineering and Services Association as a formal industry standard, including Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) recognition.

Validating Expertise Without Additional Training

It is designed so that learners can demonstrate their existing knowledge and credentials, without requiring additional training. This gives confidence to end-customers of the engineer's competence, experience and commitment to safe working practices during the installation, commissioning and ongoing maintenance of compressed air systems.

The NVQ comprises mandatory units, which include complying with statutory regulations and organisational safety requirements and using and interpreting engineering data and documentation. Emphasis is also given to working efficiently and effectively in engineering and the handing over of maintenance or installation activities to the customer. 

"The launch of our new NVQ is testament to the significant strides made by the compressed air industry in recent months. We have now developed a recognised qualification which formalises the extensive experience many compressed air engineers already possess," said Terry Collier, BCAS learning and development officer.

"Working with our members and other industry bodies, we are proud to introduce this new Compressed Air Pathway to the industry. Together, we are making meaningful progress in enhancing the skills and qualifications of the industry.

"Not only does it demonstrate the expertise of our highly skilled sector, but it provides end users with additional reassurance that all health and safety and statutory requirements will be met," he continued.

A Collaborative Effort to Elevate Industry Standards

"In addition, we have partnered with an external assessment company, TSW Training, who are well respected within the wider engineering sector.  TSW Training will be responsible for assessing and quality assuring as technicians work towards assessment. This partnership not only ensures that candidates receive the highest standard of assessment but also aligns with the rigorous requirements mandated by the Construction Leadership Council." 

Ashley Quarterman, BCAS Executive Director said that the new NVQ further enhances BCAS' wide portfolio of training courses available to engineers and end-users in the compressed air industry. "It forms part of our continued effort to add further value for our members and their customers and would not have been possible without collective effort from the BCAS team and many of our colleagues and partners across the sector," he concluded.

The NVQ Level 3 Diploma in installation and Commissioning is now available on the BCAS learning management system website and open for applications. Please visit https://elearning.bcas.org.uk/nvq-level-3-diploma-in-installation-and-commissioning/

For more information:

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 207 935 2464