SSMCA Sponsors Health & Safety Training Week
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| Enlarge Image A four-hour rigging class was one of 18 courses available during the SSMCA training week. |
May 9, 2007 • The Sault Ste. Marie Construction Association (SSMCA) in
The courses, which took place in five locations in Sault Ste. Marie, were available at no cost or at reduced rates for association members.
Participants could pick and choose which classes to take based on the topics covered.
The rigging course was put on by the Crosby Group, which donated materials and catalogs for the class. The four-hour class was designed to teach participants the basics of rigging, such as how to rig, how to inspect rigging, and rigging slings. The seven-hour aerial man lift course involved both classroom and hands-on training. Participants were able to gain experience on the equipment and learn how to operate the controls.
Ken James, chair of the association's safety committee and safety director for Mike Moore & Sons Construction, said that companies in the north sometimes have difficulty coming up with the numbers to participate in a training course and the program gives construction companies the opportunity to participate in training before the busy construction season begins. James also said that the format of the program cut down on the expense, allowing smaller independent businesses to take part.
“It went over very, very well,” James said. “We had a lot of suppliers that donated. There was a lot of commitment in the community.”
The SSMCA plans to continue the training week next year. “We're looking forward to getting bigger and better,” James said.
Other topics covered throughout the week included traffic control, confined space awareness, and electrical hazards. A total of 18 courses were offered.
