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July 4, 2024

OPITO approved Helideck Trainings in Poland – Offered by Vulcan Training & Consultancy

Introducing Fire Field – The First Commercial Fire Training Ground with a Helideck in Poland

Vulcan Training & Consultancy (VTC), the largest training centre in Central and Eastern Europe, specialises in training for Oil & Gas and Wind Energy sector workers. Last year we launched Fire Field, the first commercial fire training ground in Poland equipped with a helideck.

For over six years, Vulcan Training & Consultancy has been at the forefront of preparing trainees from Poland and across Europe, offering accredited training programs by OPITO, GWO, IRATA, and IOSH. We offer over 80 accredited courses, including those on safe working at heights, sea survival, first aid, helicopter underwater escape, advanced fire fighting, wind turbine evacuation, and rope access work.

These programs adhere to the highest safety standards in the offshore and onshore industry. Fire Field represents a pivotal addition to VTC’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, offering advanced safety training for fire teams that secure helidecks in the offshore sector globally.

Key Features of Fire Field

1. Full-Scale Helideck:

At the heart of Fire Field lies a fully operational helideck, complete with a burning helicopter simulator. This simulator allows for the replication of fires in various areas such as the cockpit, passenger seats, ceiling, and engine surroundings. Additionally, the facility includes a flipped helicopter simulator, providing trainees with the opportunity to participate in diverse evacuation scenarios, enhancing their skills and readiness for critical situations

2. Innovative Infrastructure Adaptation:

The advanced infrastructure simulates a three-story building structure, featuring internal and external staircases, windows, balconies, terraces, and fire positions. Apart from a flashover chamber, the trainer is equipped with five gas-powered fire stations to simulate machinery fires, ceiling fires, kitchen fires, and burning equipment such as beds or sofas. This innovative setup provides a realistic environment for trainees to hone their firefighting skills.

3. Vulcan complex:

Our training centre is located in Szczecin and together with the Vulcan Hotel makes up a complex that can offer almost unlimited possibilities for cooperation.

The hotel provides 200 beds of high standard – single and double rooms. The hotel has a restaurant where we provide breakfasts, lunches and dinners.

We also organize transportation from Berlin and Warsaw airports to our centre. Accommodations and transportation can be booked quickly and intuitively by reserving training on our website. Everything in one place!

New Accredited Training Programs

Vulcan Training & Consultancy offers new OPITO-accredited training programs. Training courses are conducted in both Polish and English. Our offers include:

On our website we have a full calendar with training courses and a user-friendly and intuitive booking system. This allows to quickly make individual and company reservations for several people at once. Besides the dates available in the calendar, we offer additional, individual training dates on request. To obtain an additional date, please write an e-mail to michal.sokulski@vulcantc.com.

Why Choose Vulcan Training & Consultancy?

With over six years of experience in training professionals in high-risk industries, VTC brings unparalleled expertise and a proven track record of excellence. Fire Field is equipped with cutting-edge technology and infrastructure, offering trainees a realistic and immersive training experience. VTC’s wide range of OPITO-accredited courses ensures that trainees receive the most up-to-date and relevant training for their roles. Safety is at the core of VTC’s mission. The training programs are designed to meet the highest safety standards, preparing trainees to handle emergencies effectively and confidently.

For more information about Fire Field and the training programs offered by Vulcan Training & Consultancy, visit Vulcan Training & Consultancy’s website.

July 4, 2024

Common Assessment Standard Deadline Arrives

As of June 27, 2024, the Common Assessment Standard — which can be achieved by completing the CHAS Elite assessment—is being specified for pre-qualifying suppliers for works contracts within the public sector in line with guidance set out in the latest Procurement Policy Note (PPN) 03/24.

Understanding the Common Assessment Standard (CHAS Elite) is essential for health and safety consultants, whether this is to support contractors with the accreditation process or to help clients to specify the scheme for their supply chains.

Five things to know about the Common Assessment Standard

It saves time and money

Five years since its inception, the Common Assessment Standard (CHAS Elite) has set the industry on track for more streamlined prequalification, replacing multiple systems with a single comprehensive questionnaire encompassing a broad range of risks from sustainability to financial performance. This initiative, spearheaded by Build UK and CECA, was designed to enable buying clients to set a single standard for their supply chains streamlining pre-qualification and alleviating the need for contractors to engage with multiple schemes, saving time and money for both parties. Moreover, its data-sharing agreement facilitates accessibility across assessment providers, further enhancing efficiency.

It is now being specified in the public sector

The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) already asks for contractors appointed to its seven-year framework to hold the Common Assessment Standard and the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) supports the scheme. As of June 2024, the Common Assessment Standard (CHAS Elite) is now specified for public sector projects, per the updated Procurement Policy Note (PPN) 03/24 issued by the Cabinet Office in March 2024. Contractors looking to work with the public sector must attain the Common Assessment Standard (CHAS Elite) accreditation by this deadline.

The private sector is also embracing the scheme

Specifying the Common Assessment Standard enables companies to simplify their prequalification processes while monitoring compliance data across a broad range of risks. It’s therefore no surprise that an ever-growing number of organisations using the Common Assessment Standard for their supply chains in the private sector, including Balfour Beatty, Costain, Mace, Multiplex, Skanska and Sir Robert McAlpine, to name a few. It also means a vast range of opportunities await contractors who attain the accreditation. Keep up to date with who is specifying the standard here: https://builduk.org/priorities/increasing-productivity/pre-qualification.

Buying clients can use it to set a single standard for their supply chain

Because the Common Assessment Standard (CHAS Elite) covers 13 areas of risk management it enables clients to manage multiple risks via a single assessment. Clients can also be safe in the knowledge that the standard is regularly reviewed and updated by the industry to ensure it remains relevant and current. Clients can search for contractors who are accredited to CAS by trade and location via the free-of-charge CHAS Client portal.

It’s accessible for SMEs

There are two levels of certification for the Common Assessment Standard (CHAS Elite): desktop and site-based. Companies apply to a Recognised Assessment Body, like CHAS,for the certification level that is appropriate for their business based on factors such as trade, size and the requirements of their clients. For companies that employ fewer than 10 employees and have a turnover below £1.8 million or a balance sheet total less than £1.8 million, the assessment standard will be applied in a proportionate way.

Support is available for consultants transitioning contractors to the Common Assessment Standard (CHAS Elite)

CHAS offers expert guidance and customisable packages to ease the process of transitioning to the Common Assessment Standard (CHAS Elite) including a bespoke offering for consultants. With fast assessment turnaround times and a track record of exceptional customer service—we won our fifth consecutive Feefo customer service award in 2024 – CHAS is ready to support consultants to help customers to swiftly achieve the new standard.

For more information on qualifying or specifying the standard, or to join the CHAS consultant program, visit www.chas.co.uk or call 0345 521 9111.

July 4, 2024

The ESG & Sustainability Showcase – September 25th and 26th 2024

Our ESG & Sustainability showcase taking place in September will feature six slots of pre-recorded presentations discussing ESG and sustainability, and how your business can assist attendees in managing their professional responsibilities.

There are only 4 slots left available for a consultancy, a headhunting company, and other relevant organisations. Potential topics include –

Navigating the Growing Demand for ESG and Sustainability Professionals: Trends, Skills, and Opportunities.
Sustainability powered by data: Harnessing technology to generate actionable insights.
Crafting a roadmap to Net Zero and spearheading transformative changes.
Going beyond Compliance – utilising policy to drive impactful sustainability initiatives.
AI’s role in sustainability and ESG: Revolutionising insights and solutions for a greener, more responsible future.

As per last time, we will be running our Focused Invitation Service, where our team will personally reach out to professionals such as Sustainability Directors, Heads of Environmental, CSOs, Heads of Corporate Social Responsibility, and more. We will focus on these individuals at the top 500 companies (by headcount) in Europe. Those with slots at the showcase will receive the contact details of those who register and opt-in.

Attendees will register to access the showcase and will have the option to watch either ‘live’ (when the content is launched) or on demand at their convenience. There will only be six showcase slots available, which will be shown over the course of two days – the 25th and 26th of September 2024.

What are the benefits of showcasing your company?

It’s an excellent way to show your company’s insight and expertise.
The HSE People network has a reach of over 500,000 HSE and ESG
professionals worldwide.
You will be able to actually demonstrate your products and services.
Our team will be reaching out and inviting decision makers from key organisations to attend.
So you can join us in our pledge to protect people, places and the planet!

Your showcase could be a presentation, a product demo, a panel discussion or anything else which enables you to engage with viewers. Your content will be sent out to everyone who registers and people will be able to access it on demand as well.

You will own the content and will be able to distribute it as you see fit.

Want to get involved? Contact us to find out more.

July 4, 2024

Ansell Completes Acquisition of Kimberley-Clark’s Personal Protective Equipment Business

Ansell, a global leader in protection solutions, announces it has successfully completed the acquisition of Kimberly-Clark’s Personal Protective Equipment (KCPPE) business.

This strategic acquisition strengthens Ansell’s position as a global leader in personal protection solutions, expands its product portfolio, and enhances its service capabilities to meet customer needs across various industries and geographic markets.

As part of this agreement, Ansell will acquire the Kimtech brand of scientific PPE for customers in laboratory and cleanroom environments, and the KleenGuard brand of safety PPE for customers in industrial environments.

Additionally, Ansell will add two new capabilities to its Ansell Services portfolio: The RightCycle Programme, a sustainable solution for the disposal of non-hazardous personal protective equipment (PPE) waste, and APEX, a best-in-class approach to cleanroom customer change management and contamination control.

Neil Salmon, CEO of Ansell, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating, “This acquisition represents a significant milestone for Ansell, and we are excited to welcome the KCPPE team to our organisation.

“The KCPPE business is renowned for its high-quality brands, innovative portfolio, and strong customer relationships. Integrating their expertise and product knowledge enhances our ability to provide customers with comprehensive, world-class safety solutions.”

Rob Hughes, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the newly created Kimtech and KleenGuard Business Unit (KBU), shared his thoughts on the acquisition, saying, “Joining forces with Ansell is a tremendous opportunity for our business and employees.

“Ansell’s commitment to safety and innovation aligns perfectly with our values. Together, we will continue to deliver exceptional protection solutions for workers across different industries – worldwide.”

As part of a transition services agreement, Kimberly-Clark Corporation will support the KCPPE business over the next year to allow sufficient time for a successful integration into Ansell.

During this transition period, customers can continue to request Kimtech, KleenGuard, The RightCycle Programme and APEX products and services from Kimberly-Clark Professional. Customers will be notified promptly when Ansell can begin taking orders.

July 3, 2024

Alan Murray appointed President of Safety Groups UK

Safety Groups UK (SGUK), the coordinating body for a network of around 73 local voluntary Occupational Health and Safety Groups across the UK, has appointed Alan Murray as its new President. Alan Murray brings with him a wealth of experience in the safety and health industry, having been a prominent leader in the field since the 1980s.

SGUK, a registered charity originally established in 1947, plays a crucial role in promoting awareness and knowledge about work-related health and safety risks. It achieves this by bringing together diverse groups of people to share important messages, experiences, concerns, and solutions. Local Safety Groups, some of which date back to the 1920s and ’30s, are a well-established part of the UK’s health and safety system. An important part of their work is educating and supporting non-specialists who have health and safety responsibilities as part of their wider roles, including directors and partners of small firms, general managers, HR managers, contractors, and suppliers.

Alan Murray has been the Chief Executive of the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) since 2014 and recently completed his second term as President of the European Safety Federation in April 2023. Under his leadership, the BSIF has been dedicated to supporting those who ensure workplace safety and health, advocating for the appreciation of safety and health as a critical force for good in the UK. The BSIF, through initiatives like the Registered Safety Suppliers Scheme, works to ensure quality safety products are available through capable suppliers.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Alan and the BSIF were instrumental in addressing PPE challenges, supporting authorities in sourcing fit-for-purpose PPE, demonstrating his leadership in times of crisis.

Safety Groups UK initiatives

SGUK is committed to reducing the toll of deaths, injuries, and illnesses caused by work activities. Despite the UK’s reputation as a world leader in workplace health and safety, significant challenges remain, with £13 billion lost annually due to preventable occupational injuries and diseases. Every year, over a million people suffer from work-related illnesses, thousands die from past exposures to hazardous substances, and hundreds are killed or severely injured in the workplace or on the roads.

SGUK’s initiatives include:

Recognising best practices with awards.
Promoting Group membership at health and safety exhibitions.
Supporting Groups in their activities.
Forming partnerships with other health and safety organisations to promote initiatives.
Working with sponsors to reach out to small firms and help change behaviour.

SGUK holds up to three open meetings annually, including an annual awards ceremony in January, and organises special seminars and events on key topics.

About Alan Murray

Alan Murray’s extensive background in the safety and health industry positions him as an ideal leader for SGUK. His vision and commitment to transforming the safety industry supply chain and supporting those dedicated to workplace safety and health are aligned with SGUK’s mission to promote health and safety awareness and education across the UK.

July 3, 2024

Barbie Dolls Criticised for Inadequate PPE in Scientific Roles

Barbie is often said to be able to do anything, but if she aims to be a scientist or a doctor, she needs better personal protective equipment (PPE).

According to a new study by the British Medical Journal, the iconic doll has been advised to improve her scientific credentials. Not only does Barbie frequently lack appropriate PPE, but she is also shown handling hazardous equipment and machinery with her hair loose and wearing high heels.

“Personal protective equipment may not be fashionable, but no woman wants to be ‘drop dead gorgeous’ due to preventable causes,” the study cautioned.

The research examined 93 Barbie career dolls, including 53 doctors, 10 scientists, 15 nurses, 11 additional scientists, 1 paramedic, and 1 science educator. Concerns were raised about shoes, skirts, and trousers ending above the ankle. The dolls primarily worked with children, with only 4 per cent depicted as working with adults. It was found that while 98 per cent of the dolls had a stethoscope, only 4 per cent had any PPE, and none wore the full protective equipment necessary for real-world medical and scientific work.

The study noted that the dolls lacked specific specialisations. It concluded, “Barbie boasts an impressive resume across various careers, many in male-dominated fields. To ensure Barbie is not barred from her workplace, future dolls should be equipped with the necessary PPE for laboratory and medical safety. Moreover, Dr Barbie should explore scientific and medical subfields where women are still a minority, for the benefit of young girls as well as herself.”

This year, the Barbie movie shattered box office records, and Mattel is planning a future live-action film featuring their American Girl dolls.

About HSE People

HSE People is an online network of professionals who work within Health and Safety, the Environment and Sustainability and Risk and Compliance. We provide our members with free resources such as our career portal, events calendar, industry news, access to whitepapers, eBooks and webinars as well as information about products and services. The aim of HSE People is to support those who Protect People, Places and the Planet.

If you are a blogger or there is a subject you would like to write some content on please get in touch with us so we can share your thoughts and experience with your fellow professionals across our websites and social media platforms

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