Competence theme the focus at members' meeting

The changing landscape of competence requirements in the construction industry was the focus of last week's GIRI spring members' meeting, which was lively and well attended.

GIRI executive director Cliff Smith introduced a line-up of keynote presentations from speakers representing those organisations responsible for developing and implementing new competence standards, training and continuing professional development initiatives in construction. 

Clare Price from BSi gave attendees an insight into how the competence standards framework has been developed, and the role that new standards will play in the building safety legislation, while Anthony Taylor discussed the competence requirements for the new building safety manager and the role of the Building Safety Alliance in overseeing how this will be implemented.

Dawn Hillier of CITB pointed out that GIRI members are advocates for how the right training, and a focus on behaviours and communication techniques can eliminate errors and improve construction, and urged them to bring their expertise to the sector groups that are designing competence frameworks and identifying/designing training solutions.

The session was rounded off by Institution of Civil Engineers' head of professional services, Brendan van Rooyen, who explained how the ICE's new requirements for mandatory continuing professional development will be implemented from this year onwards. 

The next GIRI members' meeting will take place on Thursday 19th May, full details will be announced in due course. 

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