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The new training facility was opened on October 17 at the Mackay division, Apex Fenner’s largest refurbishment and service branch.
Company training coordinator Elliot McIntyre told International Longwall News that before the facility was set up, there had been no entry point for belt splicers into the industry and no formal form of recognition.
“We are competing for labour like anyone else and we wanted to promote the occupation of belt splicing. If we can train them up, we can keep young people coming through the industry,” McIntyre said.
Trainees will be sent to Mackay for 14 weeks’ intensive training in splicing techniques and occupational health and safety training prior to going on site.
The training period develops the skills required on site and prepares trainees to continue their training. The trainees then return to their respective branches where they will train for two years to achieve Certificate III Rubber (belt splicing).
“Our clients want to know if our people are competent before coming on their site. We will now be able to show them proper nationally accredited certification,” McIntyre said.
