It is often the case that seemingly straightforward trenchless systems and products actually operate on fine tolerances to minimise disruption to the asset being rehabilitated.
In these instances, the quality of training for the system’s installers becomes as integral as the product’s materials and the engineering itself.
One challenge involves taking the installer training mandated by European, American and Asian manufacturers and adapting them to a local standard, both in terms of safety requirements and quality training delivery.
These new technologies are sophisticated systems that require an awareness of the construction and maintenance of drainage and sewerage assets.
Following the example of the plumbing and construction sectors, trenchless installers investing time and resources in new technology should be given the opportunity to develop and have their skills recognised industry wide through standardised training programs that fit within the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF).
Integrated installer accreditation
Surely close-fit lining techniques deserve a structured framework of delivery, given they require a disciplined understanding of multiple technical and regulatory factors such as CCTV operation, confined space entry requirements, pneumatics and defect coding.
To that end, the local distribution and training partner for German engineers UHRIG have formed a pioneering relationship with the Melbourne Polytechnic, formally known as NMIT, an Australian Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
This partnership has seen the training for UHRIG’s QUICKLOCK pipeline rehabilitation system brought in-line with the AQTF standard.
The QUICKLOCK delivery module (RIICTT308D Install Close-Fit Linings for Existing Pipeline Systems) addresses key competencies for correct installation technique and local safety considerations, contributing eight out of twelve units required for RII30912 Certificate III in Civil Construction.
Aligning a course with an RTO and overarching qualification has ensured QUICKLOCK installers only receive instruction from a qualified trainer, with adequate training time to cover installation variables through both theoretical and practical assessments.
Careers in trenchless technologies
Should it become more widely adopted, the AQTF standard of training also ensures that those in civil construction and trenchless technologies have their skills formally recognised in the eyes of the Australian education system.
This recognition provides reassurance to all of the stakeholders involved in a rehabilitation project: the engineers specifying repairs, the manufacturers supplying products to the installer, the insurance companies underwriting the work, and the owners of the assets themselves.
It is time the trenchless industry recognised those workers who wish to specialise in non-disruptive pipeline repair and help them build their careers in terms of professional, structured accreditation.
Bringing trenchless training into line with the AQTF ensures the quality of the products installed in drainage systems are upheld by quality installation, resulting in effective long-term asset rehabilitation.
To find out more about the training available for the QUICKLOCK pipeline rehabilitation system, contact QUICKLOCK Australia.