DMR – UPDATE
On page 6 of the previous Newsletter (dated June 2016) we discussed the problem that has developed since the gazetting of the regulations by the Department of Labour (DoL) relating to the “National Code of Practice for the Training Providers of Lifting machine Operators” as contained in Notice R539, dated 24 June 2015. In essence, DoL is refusing to recognise certificates issued by FP&M SETA accredited training providers who have undertaken training on 3 FP&M SETA accredited Unit Standards (Bell three-wheel loader – unit standards 117052 & 117047 and knuckle boom loaders – unit standard 117046). DoL insists that such training must be accredited by TETA alone.
This creates serious contention between our members (the training providers) and our clients (grower companies) in that it appears as if members are providing training which is not accredited and legally adequate.
As a service to our members the FITPA Exco has taken it upon ourselves to address this issue at national level, to which end the Chair person engaged FP&M Seta CEO Ms Felleng Yende, via the forestry board member, Mr Roger Godsmark of FSA.
In essence we have proposed two options to our good colleagues from FP&M Seta:
- liaising with DoL to get them to recognise the three FP&M SETA accredited Unit Standards in question; and
- liaising with TETA to get them to sign an MoU with FP&M SETA regarding these Unit Standards and for them to give recognition to FP&M training providers accredited in terms of these specific Unit Standards
As an association we appreciate the commitment of Ms Felleng and her team in resolving this issue withal expediency. Developments will be shared with members as they unfold.
