Electrical training and trade test centre P&T Technology aims to remain a nationally recognised provider of training, development and assessments.

The company provides education, training and development courses accredited by the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (Ewseta), the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority, the Construction Educa- tion and Training Authority and the Manu-facturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority to develop the skills and competence of learners or apprentices in a realistic electrical simulation environment.

P&T’s inspection and testing unit’s standard training programmes and competence assessment programmes cater for three levels: domestic (single-phase tester), industrial or commercial (three-phase) and hazardous (specialised areas). Following these courses, the learners undergo a competence assessment to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in an on-site practical environment.

Once they have successfully been assessed as competent and moderated by Ewseta, and meet the Department of Labour (DoL) require- ments, the learners can then register with the DoL and are considered competent to inspect, test and certify electrical installations, says P&T Technology MD Nick du Plessis.

The company is also accredited to facilitate National Qualifications Framework 2, 3 and 4 learnerships and apprenticeships, as well as to undertake recognition of prior learning assessments.

Employers initiate the training process of learners based on their skills or the strategic plans of the company and by identifying the company’s needs regarding apprenticeship or learnership training.

“The training encompasses institutionalised training, where theory is supported by application in a controlled workshop-facilitated environment.

“The employers’ workplace learners are supported by coaches (artisans), who provide them with opportunities to apply and develop the skills and knowledge acquired at the training centre in the workplace,” says Du Plessis.

Training to become an electrician takes three years. Each year, the learner spends three months at the training centre and seven months at the workplace.

After three years, they do the National Trade Test and are then recognised as artisans.

If they wish to develop their careers further, they would then have to take part in additional learning and assessments to meet the criteria set by the DoL to become qualified electricians to sign certificates of compliance for either single-phase, three-phase or specialised installations and make the declar- ation regarding the safety and compliance of the electrical installation.

Du Plessis says P&T learners also learn about the basics of programmable logic controllers and variable-speed drives, as well as electronics.

Technologies have been incorporated into the training and the company has invested in equipment to provide practical lessons. Learners also access all course material assessments and support material from computers, thereby also developing computer skills.

Programmes have also been developed for the nonelectrical manager, who is required to ensure the safe use and maintenance of electrical installations, as well as for the handyman who would be required to use hand tools and power tools in the workplace

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