Record numbers at Toolbox Talk’s to improve technical knowledge

Nearly 500 delegates attended 13 sessions across the length and breadth of Scotland. Typically, attendees were directors and managers, or company owners, but many also brought employees and apprentices.

The events were particularly appreciated in the Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland - areas which because of their location do not receive frequent attention on national tours of this nature.

Alan Wilson, SELECT’s Head of Communications and Members Services, said that once again our series of Toolbox Talks have been a hit with SELECT Members and they have been delighted at the positive feedback and the readiness to keep up to speed with technical issues.

He added: "All of the attendees were giving up valuable time to attend the talks, and I think it illustrates their commitment to ensuring that the industry stays ahead of the game and continues to provide the best possible levels of quality, delivery and safety for clients."

Alan pointed out that feedback showed a distinct satisfaction with the Toolbox Talks organised by SELECT, the trade body for Scotland’s electro-technical sector. Its member company’s account for over 90% of all electrical installation work carried out in Scotland.

This year's talks tour, which started in the Borders in May and ended on the Isle of Lewis at the end of June, produced remarkable appreciation levels:

• ·         More than 96% of respondents said the events were Excellent or Good;
• ·         More than 95% said the venues were Excellent or Good;
• ·         The two presentations received excellent scores of 81% and 70.5%.

One attendee commented: "I am a great believer in sharing best practice. The subjects covered were key and the information passed on was very useful. It would be great to see more of these Toolbox Talks as this will improve the industry and provide a safer working place for everyone."

The Toolbox Talks tour is already being organised for 2017, with similar dates and venues - all driven by SELECT's team and with contributions from experts in other relevant fields.

Dave Forrester, SELECT's Head of Technical Services, said: "The events are structured to provide detailed technical information and guidance which we hope our members will find useful."