Putting out fires, how to check in on your mates and how to work safely in a variety of environments were put to the test at the apprentice safety challenge last week.
The event, which included teams of apprentices from 13 companies, was held at the Wood Training Centre on Manadon Street. Teams had to compete in a day of practical exercises which included working at heights and confined spaces, vehicle and road safety, first aid, mental wellbeing, fire safety and positive communications. Organised by the Taranaki Construction Safety Group, agencies at the event also included Enviro NZ, Fire and Emergency NZ, Police, Hato Hone St John, Roadsafe Taranaki and Wood Training. NPiS and Building Wellness Taranaki ran an interactive activity for participants on mental wellbeing.
The event aims to give apprentices the opportunity to challenge their safety skills and leave with practical knowledge that will make a difference. Companies represented were Profound group. Fonterra, Hofmans Builders, Pepper Construction, Jones and Sanford, NPDC, Worley, Zeal, Todd Energy, Street and Cook Construction, Clelands Construction, First Gas and Dialog Fitzroy.
Todd Energy took out this year’s competition, followed by Clelands Construction.
“It’s a long-standing event that has continued to reinforce safety and wellbeing messages in a fun and meaningful way” said Alisha Stone, Manager of New Plymouth Injury Safe. “This event has been running since 2008 and has continued to be a great interface between agencies such as ours and the construction industry”.
