NVQs are not only for large companies

NVQs are not just for large companies, nor are they about developing files full of paper; they are about having evidence to prove that employees can do their jobs competently, as Charles Hughes of Hugh King & Co., a small family business that has been providing industrial and building sands in and around Ayrshire for approximately 150 years, will testify.

Mr Hughes recently put himself and two of his management colleagues through the Health, Safety and Environmental Management NVQs – one at each level. ‘Initially there was a feeling of ambivalence towards the initiative, as the individuals concerned had qualifications and a proven track record within the industry. However, we did feel it was right to try to standardize methods and procedures to ensure that a common language was being spoken and understood,’ he said.

While sufficient guidance exists within the framework of health and safety law to ensure that all aspects of business operate in a responsible way, it is individuals’ interpretation of these rules and codes of practice that can lead to shortfalls in the management of site safety. It was for this reason that Mr Hughes took the decision to embrace the NVQ route.

According to the candidates, this was not a daunting task as the answers to the majority of the questions were obvious; it was simply a case of looking at each problem from a slightly different perspective. ‘Having a registered quality-management system in place provided a base from which a large number of answers could be extracted, especially from internally audited procedures and work instructions,’ said Mr Hughes. ‘Collating the evidence was all about looking at your remit and quizzing yourself about what you do and, more importantly, why you do it.’

All three candidates successfully obtained their NVQs in June 2007 and are now confident they are managing the business in a safe and environmentally positive manner with staff who are well trained and suitably motivated.

According to Carol Pillinger, director/general manager of EMP Awarding Body Ltd, a real step change is taking place in the world of NVQs. ‘These qualifications are key to making a safer and more competent work force which meets the QNJAC requirements. Those people who rejected the idea of NVQs, either because of cost or difficulty, might want to re-consider, as things are very different now,’ she said.

In June 2008 EMP will be running a series of workshops around the UK for smaller companies who would like to explore NVQ opportunities further. Companies wishing to book a free place should forward their contact details to: