Training 25 building temporary works trainees requires careful planning of resources. This guide recommends the materials, equipment, and human resources you need to train a group of 25 trainees safely and effectivResources for Training Temporary Works Trainees
Resources for training temporary works trainees decide whether your programme succeeds. This guide recommends the human, physical, learning, and safety resources you need to train a group of 25 trainees effectively.
Introduction: Why Training Resources Matter
Training 25 trainees at once is a major task. Moreover, temporary works training involves hands-on practice with tools, timber, and scaffolds. Consequently, resources must be enough for every trainee to take part.
In addition, the TVET CDACC assessment requires each candidate to show competence individually. Therefore, training must give each trainee enough hands-on time to build skill.
This guide therefore recommends resources in four groups: human, physical, learning, and safety.
Understanding the Training Context
The training covers four systems: timbering, formwork, scaffolds, and shores. Moreover, each trainee must complete practical tasks in all four areas.
With 25 trainees, the trainer must divide the group into smaller teams. Consequently, each team works on a task while others observe or study theory.
Recommended Group Structure
| Team | Trainees | Task Rotation |
| Team A | 6–7 | Trench timbering |
| Team B | 6–7 | Column formwork |
| Team C | 6–7 | Scaffold fabrication |
| Team D | 5–6 | Shoring practice |
Teams rotate after each session. Consequently, every trainee completes every task.
Human Resources for Training
Human resources determine how well the group learns. Therefore, plan staffing before training begins.
1. Lead Trainer
The lead trainer must hold relevant qualifications and industry experience. Moreover, the trainer should hold assessor certification where assessment is included.
Responsibilities:
- Deliver theory lessons.
- Demonstrate practical tasks.
- Supervise all teams.
- Assess trainee competence.
- Maintain safety standards.
2. Assistant Trainers
With 25 trainees, one trainer cannot supervise everyone safely. Therefore, appoint two or three assistant trainers.
Responsibilities:
- Supervise individual teams.
- Check dimensions and quality.
- Correct unsafe practices at once.
- Record trainee progress.
3. Safety Officer
A safety officer monitors hazards throughout training. Moreover, the officer enforces PPE rules and safe sequences.
Responsibilities:
- Inspect the training area daily.
- Enforce PPE rules.
- Maintain first aid facilities.
- Record incidents and near-misses.
4. Store Keeper
A store keeper manages tools and materials. Consequently, tools remain accounted for and in good condition.
Responsibilities:
- Issue and receive tools.
- Inspect tools after use.
- Maintain inventory records.
- Store materials correctly.
Physical Resources for Training
Physical resources include the training site, tools, and materials. Therefore, plan quantities based on group size.
Training Site Requirements
The training site must provide enough space for all teams. Moreover, it must include separate areas for each task.
| Area | Purpose | Minimum Size |
| Trench area | Timbering practice | 10 m × 5 m |
| Formwork area | Column formwork practice | 10 m × 5 m |
| Scaffold area | Scaffold fabrication | 10 m × 8 m |
| Shoring area | Raker shore practice | 10 m × 5 m |
| Theory room | Classroom sessions | Seats for 25 |
| Store room | Tool and material storage | 4 m × 3 m |
Tools Required for 25 Trainees
Tools must be enough for four teams working at the same time. Therefore, provide four sets of each tool.
| Tool | Quantity |
| Tape measure (5 m or 8 m) | 12 |
| Try square | 12 |
| Builder’s square | 8 |
| Spirit level | 12 |
| Plumb bob | 12 |
| Handsaw | 12 |
| Claw hammer | 12 |
| Sledgehammer | 4 |
| Chisel and mallet | 8 sets |
| Podger spanner | 12 |
| Adjustable wrench | 8 |
| Wrecking bar | 8 |
| Pincers | 8 |
| Wheelbarrow | 8 |
| Spade and shovel | 16 |
| Pickaxe and mattock | 8 |
Materials Required for 25 Trainees
Materials must allow each team to complete and repeat tasks. Therefore, provide enough for at least two cycles.
| Material | Quantity |
| Timber (50 × 100 mm) | 100 lengths |
| Timber (100 × 100 mm) | 60 lengths |
| Plywood sheets (2440 × 1220 mm) | 30 sheets |
| Poling boards | 120 |
| Walings | 80 |
| Struts | 80 |
| Wedges | 200 |
| Nails (assorted) | 20 kg |
| Bolts and clamps | 100 sets |
| Platform boards | 80 |
| Scaffold tubes | 60 lengths |
| Couplers | 150 |
| Base plates | 30 |
| Sole boards | 30 |
Learning Resources for Training
Learning resources support theory lessons and self-study. Moreover, they help trainees revise before assessment.
1. Working Drawings
Provide clear working drawings for each task. Moreover, laminate them so they survive site conditions.
Drawings needed:
- Trench timbering detail (1000 × 600 mm).
- Column formwork detail (300 × 300 × 2000 mm).
- Scaffold framework detail (1050, 750, 1000 mm).
- Raker shore detail (30–60 degree angle).
2. Trainee Handbooks
Each trainee should receive a handbook covering:
- Timbering components and methods.
- Formwork preparation and striking.
- Scaffold erection and dismantling.
- Shoring types and installation.
- PPE and safety practices.
3. Assessment Checklists
Provide copies of the observation checklists. Consequently, trainees know exactly what assessors will score.
4. Visual Aids
Visual aids reinforce learning. Therefore, provide:
- Wall charts of tool names and uses.
- Posters of PPE requirements.
- Diagrams of erection sequences.
- Photographs of completed work.
5. Digital Resources
Digital resources support flexible learning. Therefore, provide:
- Video demonstrations of each task.
- Slide presentations for theory lessons.
- Digital copies of drawings and checklists.
- Online safety guidance from OSHA and HSE.
Safety Resources for Training
Safety resources protect trainees throughout training. Moreover, they ensure compliance with regulations.
PPE for 25 Trainees
| Item | Quantity |
| Safety helmets | 30 |
| Safety boots | 25 pairs |
| Overalls | 30 |
| Gloves (pairs) | 60 |
| Safety goggles | 30 |
| High-visibility vests | 30 |
| Ear defenders | 15 |
| Dust masks | 100 |
| Fall harnesses | 8 |
First Aid and Emergency Resources
- First aid kit (fully stocked).
- Fire extinguishers (2 minimum).
- Emergency contact list.
- Accident report forms.
- Eye wash station.
Safety Signage
- Warning tape and cones.
- Exclusion zone barriers.
- “PPE Required” signs.
- “Deep Excavation” signs.
- “Authorised Personnel Only” signs.
Recommended Training Schedule
A structured schedule keeps 25 trainees productive. Therefore, rotate teams through tasks.
| Day | Team A | Team B | Team C | Team D |
| 1 | Theory | Theory | Theory | Theory |
| 2 | Timbering | Formwork | Scaffold | Shoring |
| 3 | Formwork | Scaffold | Shoring | Timbering |
| 4 | Scaffold | Shoring | Timbering | Formwork |
| 5 | Shoring | Timbering | Formwork | Scaffold |
| 6 | Revision | Revision | Revision | Revision |
| 7 | Assessment | Assessment | Assessment | Assessment |
Budget Considerations
Training 25 trainees requires a realistic budget. Therefore, consider the following cost areas.
- Tools – initial purchase and replacement.
- Materials – timber, plywood, and consumables.
- PPE – helmets, boots, gloves, and harnesses.
- Trainer fees – lead trainer and assistants.
- Facilities – site preparation and classroom.
- Refreshments – water and meals for trainees.
- Assessment fees – certification and records.
Moreover, reusable materials reduce long-term costs. Consequently, store and maintain tools properly.
Common Resource Planning Mistakes
Many training programmes suffer from resource shortages. Therefore, avoid the following common mistakes.
- Providing too few tools for the group size.
- Underestimating material quantities.
- Neglecting assistant trainers.
- Skipping safety resources.
- Failing to prepare enough drawings.
- Ignoring storage and maintenance.
- Planning no rotation schedule.
- Forgetting refreshments and welfare.
- Underbudgeting for replacements.
- Neglecting record keeping.
Summary Table: Resource Requirements
| Category | Key Resources |
| Human | Lead trainer, assistants, safety officer, store keeper |
| Physical | Training site, 4 tool sets, 2 cycles of materials |
| Learning | Drawings, handbooks, checklists, visual aids, videos |
| Safety | PPE for 30, first aid, fire extinguishers, signage |
Conclusion
Resources for training temporary works trainees cover human, physical, learning, and safety needs. When you provide enough tools, materials, and supervision, every trainee gains hands-on experience.
Moreover, a rotation schedule keeps all teams productive. Therefore, plan the schedule before training begins. As a result, trainees develop competence and pass their assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many trainers are needed for 25 trainees?
You need one lead trainer plus two or three assistant trainers. Moreover, a safety officer and store keeper support the programme.
How many tool sets are required?
Provide four sets of each tool, so four teams can work at the same time. Consequently, no team waits idle.
How much material should I prepare?
Prepare enough material for at least two cycles per team. Therefore, trainees can repeat tasks and correct mistakes.
What PPE quantities are needed?
Provide PPE for at least 30 people, including helmets, boots, overalls, gloves, goggles, and vests. Moreover, keep spare items for replacements.
How should teams rotate through tasks?
Divide trainees into four teams of 6–7. Then, rotate them through timbering, formwork, scaffold, and shoring over five days.