Land Based Training realised there was a gap in the market for a practical quad bike course that updates farmers with current legislation – other than the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) Unit Standard course, which can take up to 3 days with at least 10 hours class room time.
Land Based Training (LBT) is a Private Training Enterprise (PTE) with its headquarters in Wanganui and offices and tutors based throughout the North Island with the ability to outsource work in the South Island. Managing Director Rob Gollan, who is also a farm consultant, says:
“Farmers don’t want to be taken out of their businesses for two or three days to do a course, which is basically teaching them something they already know how to do. We identified a gap in the market, and with demand from our clients, saw there was an opportunity to develop another method of conveying the information to our existing clients, as well as providing a service to the farming and service sectors.”
So in consultation with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (formerly the Dept of Labour), the company in conjunction with existing corporate clients and tutors, developed a one day course that is held on farm. Ideally each course has at least 8 participants and covers what employers and employees obligations are under the HASIE Act. It also gives examples of what happens when lapses occur, what the penalties are – as well as the costs of rehabilitation.
This is done through a Power Point presentation that takes about an hour and a half, and involves no writing or form filling for the participants.
Then it is on to the quads, with the tutor providing information and – if needed – instruction on techniques for different things, as well as eventually assessing.
The course covers all aspects of quad riding, such as towing, active riding, riding on undulating terrain and with mounted loads.
“It’s not about re-inventing the wheel,” Gollan says. “The aim of this one day course is for employers to make sure that their staff are aware of the laws, are competent and safe.”
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has had their inspectors review the course and have rubber stamped this initiative.
All farm employers and employees need to come to terms with their requirements under the Health and Safety in Employment Act (HASIE). The Act states: Every Employer shall take all practicable steps to ensure the safety of Employees while at work.
Land Transport fact sheets state that helmets are now compulsory, and all riders must wear them. Unfortunately, this is often not adhered to. If there is a quad bike accident both employer and employee can be prosecuted HASIE and the fines range up to $25,000 for individuals, to $250,000 for companies.
The day commences at 10.00am and goes through to around 3.00pm at a cost competitive rate.
Land Based Training, 0508 TRAINME – 0508 872466
