The Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) has launched a new scheme that will offer universal access to its training courses on the test, examination and maintenance of overhead lifting equipment. Designed to help address the worldwide shortage of skilled overhead lifting equipment engineers, the LEEA’s individual trainee programme is open to anyone interested in pursuing a career in this field, regardless of whether they are currently employed by a LEEA member company.
Launching the new scheme, Geoff Holden, chief executive of the LEEA, said: “The shortfall in engineers properly qualified to work on overhead lifting equipment is one of the most pressing challenges faced by our members. In recent years we have invested significantly in our training facilities and courses and the new individual trainee programme will make these accessible to any aspiring lifting equipment engineer. By no longer restricting LEEA training to employees of member companies we can significantly increase the overall pool of talent available to the industry, whilst providing a springboard for students looking to develop their career prospects.”
Overhead lifting is a long established, safety-critical branch of engineering than encompasses a wide array of cranes, hoists, slings, lifting attachments and other equipment. Many countries, including the UK, have sector-specific health and safety legislation that requires regular examination of overhead lifting equipment by competent personnel.
The LEEA runs an ever-increasing range of rigorous and highly respected training programmes. These include an online distance learning course that prepares students for the Association’s industry-recognised Diploma qualification for engineers responsible for the test and examination of overhead lifting equipment. The LEEA also runs a series of practical courses at its dedicated training centre in Huntingdon. These include five-day courses on general lifting gear or manual lifting machines, a specialist two-day course on hand chain block and lever hoist maintenance and a one-day course on chain, wire rope and textile slings. There are a maximum of eight delegates on each course, which are led by the LEEA’s experienced and qualified team of training officers. All of the training courses and examinations are CPD (Continuous Professional Development) accredited, providing lifting equipment engineers with the benefits of a properly structured career path.
Further details on pricing and availability can be found at www.leeaint.com or by contacting the LEEA on tel: +44(0)1480 432801 or email: mail@leea.co.uk
Established in 1944, the LEEA has over 360 member companies worldwide and campaigns vigorously for higher standards of safety within the lifting industry. In addition to providing members with training and expert technical advice, the association works closely with organisations such as the Health and Safety Executive in the preparation of regulations and British, European and International standards. Member companies include those involved in the design, manufacture, hire, repair, refurbishment, test, examination, verification and use of lifting equipment. Applicants are subject to an initial technical audit before full membership is granted, and then to a continuing programme of assessments. Further details on the activities of the LEEA and a full list of members can be found at: www.leeaint.com
