Frequently Asked Training Questions

• Do I need to have a license to operate an EWP in NZ?
• What are my training options?
• How long does the training take to complete?
• How long is the qualification valid for?
• What is the difference between the Silvercard and the NZQA unit standards courses and why should I choose one over the other?
• Is the Silvercard training course being phased out and replaced by the NZQA qualification?

 

  

 

Q - Do I need to have a license to operate an EWP in NZ?

In short, No.
However all operators must have been shown how to use the machine they are working on, and in particular the safety features of its operation. In additionmore and more work sites are implementing or requiring all operators to have undertaken some form of formal instruction in the use of EWP's. This requirement is a workplace rule and is born by that sites requirements to provide a safe environment for all workers under the 1992 Health and Safety Act.

 

Q - What are my training options?

At Accessman we have a range of options available depending on each individuals requirements, the specific machine types and/or the work conditions and/or rules that may be in place. All information required can me found on the Silvercard Operator Training and NZQA EWP Training pages or alternatively you can email training@accessman.co.nz to discuss your specific requirements.

Q - How long does the training take to complete?

This very much depends on the number of machines you require training on, and also the level to which you need to be trained (silvercard, NZQA, induction). The Silvercard Operator course takes 5 hours to complete for 3 machine types and the NZQA course takes 2 full days for 3 machine types (4 unit standards).

Q - How long are the qualifications valid for?

The Accessman Silvercard has a 5 year cycle, it expires after 5 years and the full course must be completed every 5 years to renew.
The NZQA course is for life, so sit it once for the ultimate in compliance.

Q - What is the difference between a Silvercard and the NZQA Unit Standards course and why should I choose one over the other?

The Accessman Silvercard has been designed and  implemented by the Hire Association of NZ and has been in place since 1994. It is recognised by the Department of Labour as the indusry lead standard in training and in most cases is the right choice.

In recent times there has been a push by employers to align training to some type of formal recognition, the NZQA unit standards program has been implemented to meet these requirements.

In choosing the course best suited to your needs, you should consider the specific requirements both you have as an individual now in terms of compliance training, and the long term requirements you have in working on a range of construction sites in the future.

Q - Is the Silvercard Training course being phased out and replaced by the NZQA Qualification?

The Department of Labour has given our industry the strongest indications that our industry lead Silvercard Training Program has a place both now and in the future. It has been designed to highlight and cover all the specific needs to ensure the safe operation and safety of those using EWP's. The NZQA unit standards course could be seen to be the ultimate in compliance training, as it has a higher level of assessment and more in depth education and training on the use of EWP's.

For further information on the Silvercard Operator Training or NZQA EWP Operator Training, please email training@accessman.co.nz or call 03 341 6333