September 21, 2026
The BDA Training & Education Sub-Committee met virtually on 9 September 2026, chaired by Paul McMann, to discuss progress across a range of training, competency and education initiatives, including the new training platform, training video development, bite-size publications, the Super Sector Scheme and future strategic priorities for the committee.
Key Highlights:
- BDA Training Platform and Hydraulic Hose Training – The committee reviewed the new BDA training platform, which members agreed was easy to use, with the automatic certificate function highlighted as particularly useful. The committee also reviewed the Hydraulic Hose Training, which will form part of the pre-audit checklist and be a prerequisite for the audit. The training is designed to help users understand what is unacceptable and recognise damaged hydraulic hoses.
- Pre-Start Checklist Videos – Work continues on the development of videos to support the Pre-Start Checklist, which is now an audit requirement. A sample classification script is being finalised, with further discussion planned around video content. Members also considered potential content covering grouting, specialist instrumentation, water well and geothermal applications, with emphasis placed on ensuring correct PPE is worn during filming.
- Bite-Size Publications – The committee reviewed progress on a number of bite-size publications. The Water Level Reading publication is now ready to be finalised, while work continues on Window Sampling, CP Guard and Rotary Guarding. Members also discussed the potential for a new educational piece covering noise protection, particularly the importance of wearing appropriate hearing protection around rigs and site equipment.
- Super Sector Scheme – Development of the ‘Skills, Knowledge and Behaviours’ element of the Super Sector Scheme continues, using a function map to help define the requirements. The aim is for this stage to be completed by December 2026, after which it will be circulated to industry specialists for comment.
- Training & Education Strategic Plan – The committee reviewed an updated Training & Education Strategic Plan for 2026/27, including revised aims and updated content covering the role of the Sub-Committee. Members also discussed the potential development of a BDA-approved sector training matrix and the importance of ensuring each BDA sub-committee has clearly defined objectives to help avoid unnecessary overlap between areas of activity.
- Safe Loads and Lashings App – Members discussed a proposal for the development of a mobile-friendly Safe Loads and Lashings payload calculator app to replace the existing Excel-based version. The committee agreed that the proposal should be progressed, with funding for development to be raised with the BDA Finance & Strategy and Management Committees.
- Further Training and Guidance Opportunities – The committee discussed further opportunities to support good practice across the sector. These included the safe manual handling of SPT hammers, which was identified as a potential subject for a future bite-size publication. An update was also provided on BDA Manual Handling Training, with positive take-up reported for the Glasgow and Gloucester sessions.
