Silverdell have been given the “green light” to proceed with the application to gain City & Guilds accreditation of their SAFE training and assessment scheme.

The SAFE training system is a modular approach which comprises a series of operational “core unit competencies” that are fundamental to works within the asbestos remediation industry. The core competencies are complemented by a series of supervisory managerial soft skills. These relate to skills such as customer relations, safety, project and environmental management, skills essential for the industry.

Ken Thompson, City and Guilds Group Business Manager said “This is a new dimension in a specialist area of works that complements our portfolio of training skills. We recognise that traditional qualifications are not always appropriate to business environments and hence we are committed to developing relevant programmes to validate in-house training schemes where our strict standards are met. The asbestos industry is an excellent example of this.

Once City & Guilds have accredited the SAFE scheme, Operational, Supervisory staff and supply chain members that successfully complete the training modules and subsequent practical assessment will receive certificates from SAFE, endorsed by City & Guilds.”

Marc Smith, Silverdell’s Group Safety Director comments “Part of the application is a verification of the scheme and management processes by an independent 3rd party. This is an excellent monitoring tool to ensure our commitment to continued professional development remains a market leading asset. The integration of safety in our work, both by staff and our supply chain is fundamental. The technical quality of our people is core to the development of best industry practice and professionalism."

Ken Thompson continues, “A successful partnership is one that draws on the strengths of all members to their mutual benefit but more importantly to provide added value to their customers and stakeholders. Silverdell’s SAFE initiative meets this core objective of City and Guilds.

Silverdell (UK) Ltd is a leading asbestos removal contractor and part of The Silverdell Plc Group. The Silverdell Group provide managed solutions for asbestos, industrial, remediation and environmental services. Working with partners in public, private, construction and industrial markets, we are committed to creating an improved environment in which to live and work.

For more information on Silverdell PLC and their range of services please contact : Nicky Lewis, Simply Marcomms Limited,18 Generator Hall, Electric Wharf, Coventry, CV1 4JL, Tel: 0870 199 4044 or visit www.silverdell.co.uk