“No matter how good you get you can always get better, and that’s the exciting part.”
Tiger Woods
Tiger was referring to golf, but the same applies in the world of work. Knowledge isn’t static, there is always something new to learn, or revisit if you haven’t done it for a while. This drive for continuous improvement is enshrined in the requirement to undertake CPD – continuing professional development.
What is CPD?
CPD is supplementary learning that professionals undertake to enhance their competence and knowledge in the workplace. It’s additional to any initial qualification or training.
Anyone who is a member of a professional body (and there are over 2000 in the UK), is likely to have CPD requirements governed by their sector specific professional organisation. For example, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) requires members to undertake 35 hours of CPD a year, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) at least 20 hours CPD. Other organisations operate points-based systems, for instance the Association of Project Safety requires members to gain at least 24 CPD points from a range of activities.
Individuals keep a log of CPD activities which they submit, as required, to maintain their professional membership status.
Why is it valuable?
Organisations prioritise CPD because they recognise the value of a workforce that is constantly maintaining and strengthening its knowledge and expertise. Competent employees are valuable assets.
CPD enhances current knowledge and, with the plethora of subjects on offer, can add to or extend knowledge – in other words – upskilling. It also demonstrates commitment to self-development and professionalism.
What can DCP S&T offer?
Effective CPD contributes to a positive health & safety culture in the workplace. Being able to give competent advice is an essential part of protecting people in the workplace, and it is the responsibility of all health & safety professionals and others responsible for safety in building management, construction and redevelopment projects, to ensure their own competence.
As providers of health & safety services and training we offer the following CPD courses:
CDM (2015) Awareness – Important for anyone involved in construction work, as the Client, designer or contractor. The course can be tailored to your specific requirements, tackling areas where you need to address a shortfall in knowledge or as a ‘refresher’ to remind staff of their duties under the CDM regulations.
Asbestos Awareness – We all know asbestos is a potential killer if disturbed in situ. This CPD session is invaluable for anyone involved in construction work, be it a designer, a contractor or even someone responsible for a property on a day-to-day basis.
Manual Handling Awareness – Statistics have consistently placed back injuries as one of the leading problems of staff related sickness in work environment. Manual handling, or to be more accurate, incorrect manual handling, is one of the most common causes of injury at work. This CPD outlines exactly what constitutes manual handling, covering the regulations and legislation that apply to manual handling tasks. It also covers safe handling techniques, how to develop good manual handling habits, and introduces some practical solutions and the use of mechanical aids.
All sessions can be adapted to suit any group size and last for approximate 3 hours including an allotted time for Q&A. We can present the sessions in person or remotely, as required.
CPD Delivery
These courses are delivered by our Head of Safety and training, Jonathan Rensink, and Andy Berry. Jon has been working in health and safety for more than 20 years and has built a strong reputation for his depth and breadth of knowledge. Jon is always on top of this evolving industry and has a level 3 teaching award. Andy has more than 30 years’ experience in the construction sector. He is an expert communicator with a CAT B Asbestos certificate.
Who should attend?
These CPD sessions provide best practice knowledge for:
- contractors
- architects
- designers
- property management professionals
- and for anyone responsible for property and in-house maintenance.,
For further information and to arrange your CPD session contact:
Jonathan Rensink 07785 425295
Andy Berry 07747 237728