Groundworks specialist Mabey Hire Services has launched a training academy offering free courses for contractors in using its range of civil engineering products.

The Mabey Training Academy is based in Wigan and will initially focus on groundworks products.

The Academy is a staffed by IOSH trained personnel and is fitted out with extensive replicas of on-site situations and applications.

Trainees can cover all elements of Mabey’s groundworks products, from simple sheeting and bracing to the largest boxing systems.

Training & Development Manager Kevin Hallett said: “Getting contractors up to speed is vital and we felt dedicated off-site product training courses can help focus on key areas of installation and product features for operational staff.

“The Training Academy does not replace mandatory on-site training/inspection but instead complements site personnel with wider good practice and product know-how.

“Increased awareness and competency when using the product allows contractors to work with reduced downtime, reduced damages and with increased efficiency allowing a project to progress much more swiftly than otherwise and with increased safety for all on site”