Members of the British Airline Pilots Association (BALPA) have completed a joint training programme with members of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) this week.
Twenty members of both unions completed the five-day course and received a Level 2 certification in Health and Safety.
Pioneering safety training in aviation
The training programme is unique in itself, as it follows a collaborative format from members of both the BALPA and FBU to share their experiences to improve health and safety issues in the aviation industry more effectively.
The programme aims to undoubtedly improve safety within the UK aviation industry for all passengers and staff. Especially as the aviation industry continues to recover from COVID and airports become busier, it is even more important to allow for a refresh of health and safety practices. Training is more than critical for that.
Wendy Pursey, BALPA’s Head of Membership and Career Services, spoke of the importance of the new course and shared further details about it in a statement:
“Aiding reps to tackle Health and Safety issues in the workplace is a vital part of union work and we at BALPA are delighted to share our classroom with the FBU to give reps from both unions enhanced skills in this area. The high-quality training provided via CONEL College has been exceptional whilst providing our representatives with a very rewarding experience. This is the first time we have collaborated in this way and it certainly shows that Unions learning together makes us stronger.”
A representative from the FBU echoed the positive remarks made by Pursey and praised the welcoming and positive environment:
“This course opens your eyes to the problems in other workplaces and provides a great introduction and framework to Health and Safety in the workplace. I’d encourage anyone interested in Health and Safety to get onboard, it’s a relaxed environment with everything open to discussion with no wrong answers. You don’t have to be an expert in Health and Safety to attend.”
Safety in aviation is crucial, as becomes an undeniably dangerous industry without the countless health and safety practices. Whilst the industry grapples with issues surrounding post-COVID recovery, it is clear to be reminded that ongoing practice and maintenance of safety is still the number one priority.
Let us know what you think of the new joint training programme!
