Continued from the PASMA Homepage

As of 6 July 2009, the mandatory training requirements set out in the 2006 Construction Regulations became law. As these cover the erection and dismantling of mobile access towers used extensively in the construction sector, PASMA is working closely with FETAC to ensure that its members and tower users in Ireland are not disadvantaged or inconvenienced by this new regulatory requirement. In particular, to ensure that PASMA identity cards - issued as proof of PASMA training - are formally recognised under the requirements of the new regulations.

Comments PASMA managing director, Peter Bennett: “This process of recognition has not yet been completed, but every effort is being made to achieve this objective as quickly as possible. Holders of valid PASMA cards can be assured that we have their best interests in mind and that we are doing everything possible to remove any uncertainty from the recognition process.” The lead industry bodies in the Irish construction sector endorse this view.

 Since its inception in the 1970’s, PASMA’s primary aim has been to foster good working relations with industry, regulators and safety bodies with a view to advancing safety and best practice. A founder member of the Access Industry Forum (AIF), it has trained almost 250,000 delegates, including 50,000 last year alone. There are, say the association, thousands of PASMA cardholders active and, more importantly, working safely in the Irish construction sector.

Recognised and respected as the natural focus and authority for towers, PASMA training has been, and remains, the training of choice amongst those who have pre-empted the now mandatory requirements. PASMA is working closely with the relevant industry organisations to ensure that tower users have a choice in how they demonstrate compliance, and therefore competency, under the new regulations.

 Says Peter Bennett: “In reality, what this means is that employers will be able to choose either PASMA training, which enjoys the status and backing of every major European manufacturer, or some alternative.”