2500 Vic electricians complete CPD

Energy Safe Victoria has reported a strong take-up of the state’s new continuing professional development (CPD) requirements, with more than 2500 electrical workers completing the requirements as part of their licence renewal.

Energy Safe Victoria CEO Leanne Hughson said this was an impressive result in a very short space of time and demonstrated Victorian electrical workers’ commitment to safety.

“Continuing professional development is an important plank in the safety framework for electrical workers in Victoria,” she said.

“It increases worker safety by ensuring they are up to date with regulations and practices which are designed to support them to do their job well and, most importantly, safely.”

From 1 July 2023, it has been compulsory for all electrical workers who want to renew their licence to complete the CPD program.

Delivered by Energy Safe and supported by unions and employers, CPD is a Victorian Government initiative designed to ensure all electrical workers are suitably prepared for their work in the community, covering critically important safe working topics.

The CPD program is split into two parts — Skills Maintenance and Skills Development — with the first part of the program offering useful refresher training on key regulations and safety topics.

Skills Development is a broader program to enhance electrical workers’ careers and open up new learning opportunities, particularly in renewable energy. Skills Development will not be required for licence renewals until 2028.

Skills Maintenance comprises a total of eight hours of in-person training at a specialist training centre or TAFE. An electrical worker will have to complete their training before applying to renew their licence.

Energy Safe Head of Licensing and Training Sue Sizer said she expected a further 8000 electrical workers would complete the training by this time next year.

“The outcome we are looking for is better-trained electrical workers,” she said. “There’s no exam to pass, although if a trainer finds a participant has a particular knowledge or skills gap, they might recommend some resources for that participant to work through to ensure they are fully comfortable with the topic.

“So far, it’s clear that the vast majority of electrical workers appreciate the opportunity to reinforce their knowledge of safety and regulatory topics, which can get a little hazy as people pursue their careers. We are a fast-changing industry and people are naturally very busy. Skills Maintenance simply ensures they are up to speed in key areas,” Sizer said.

For more information about CPD, visit esv.vic.gov.au and click on ‘Licensing’.

Image credit: iStock.com/LOUISE BEAUMONT