NTDA member Donnelly Group, Northern Ireland’s largest family-owned new and used vehicle retailer, is to deliver an Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) certified course promoting safety amongst roadside recovery operators and tyre technicians when working on hybrid and electric vehicles.
The course, entitled IMI Level 2 Award in Electric Hybrid Vehicle Hazard Management for Emergency and Recovery Personnel, is fully recognised by the NTDA and awards an IMI Vocationally Related Qualification (VRQ).
The first training sessions are taking place on Wednesday 23rd May at Donnelly Group Headquarters in Dungannon and on Thursday 24th May at Donnelly and Taggart in Eglinton.
Dasos Michaelides, Donnelly Group Tyre Division General Manager and NTDA Regional Chairman for Northern Ireland, said: “We are delighted to be an NDTA approved training provider and to offer this IMI Award qualification in Northern Ireland which will further enhance the Tyre Technician Professional Development Scheme that the NTDA is promoting. The course will be taking place in Dungannon and Eglinton, negating the need for technicians who maintain or repair electric and hybrid vehicles to travel across the water for training. The hybrid and electric vehicle sector is highly specialised and this course is designed to complement the existing skills of attendees whilst equipping them with the knowledge and skills to continue working safely within their role.”
Dasos continued: “Working around a specialist vehicle that has high energy electrical systems can be complex. It is therefore vital that technicians have the knowledge and skills to carry out their work safely. Tyre specific issues will be addressed during the course to help to safe guard all technicians.”
Robert Fitzpatrick, Head of Learning and Development at Donnelly Group added: “The one-day course will include what types of electric and hybrid vehicles are available; the hazards that are associated with the high energy electrical systems; how to reduce the risk of injury when encountering these vehicles; and how to safely transport and store electric and hybrid vehicles.”
The course has been specifically designed for those who will encounter electric or hybrid vehicles. The cost of the course is £199 per delegate which is inclusive of registration, course materials, lunch and certification. With no formal entry requirements for this qualification, delegates are not required to have any prior knowledge or experience making it suitable for those in all related roles. Delegates will receive course materials and a certificate upon completion of the one-day course. Further course dates will be made available in the coming months.
Robert concluded: “At Donnelly Group we are champions of lifelong learning and professional development at all levels of our business amongst our 720 employees and we are really pleased to be working with both the NDTA and IMI to ensure this can be facilitated locally here in Northern Ireland. Technology is developing faster than ever before, and to ensure a safe environment for those working within the industry it is imperative they keep their knowledge and skills up to date.”
For further information or to register an interest in the course, please email robert.fitzpatrick@donnellygroup.co.uk
