Empowering Europe’s water jetting workforce: a focus on standardized training

This article, ‘Empowering Europe’s water jetting standardized training’, was included in the EWJI Yearbook 2023. Consult the publication here.

The water jetting industry plays an important role in several areas, from industrial cleaning to construction and maintenance. In Europe, organizations such as the Water Jetting Association (WJA) in the UK, S3C in France, DIRV in Germany, and ALTAP in Spain have recognized the significance of standardized training programs for water jetting operatives. Training not only ensures the safety of workers but also enhances efficiency, quality, and compliance with industry standards. Let’s examine the various training and certification initiatives that exist throughout Europe.

WJA (UK): pioneering water jetting training

The Water Jetting Association (WJA) has been at the forefront of water jetting training in the UK for almost four decades. With a commitment to continuous improvement, the organization has made significant developments in its training program. The main elements of WJA’s training program include:

1. Course accreditation by City & Guilds: WJA’s primary training program is accredited by City & Guilds, a recognized authority in vocational education. This accreditation lends credibility to the training courses and ensures that they meet high standards.
2. Safety awareness course: the foundation of WJA’s training is a one-day Safety Awareness course that emphasizes the principles of water jetting and the importance of safe practices. Safety is a paramount concern in the water jetting industry, making this course a vital component of the training program.
3. Practical modules: WJA supplements the Safety Awareness course with four practical modules covering Surface Preparation, Tube and Pipe, Hydrodemolition, and Drain and Sewer operations. These modules offer in-depth training on operational issues and hands-on skills.
4. Ongoing certification: upon successfully passing Safety Awareness and at least one practical module, delegates are issued a WJA operative’s card. Their information is stored on an international database of water jetting operatives. To maintain their certification, operatives must attend a refresher course every three years.
5. Digital certification: In a move towards greater efficiency and sustainability, WJA introduced digital certificates in 2022, replacing paper certificates. The digital course verification system allows service users to easily verify the training and certification status of operatives through a web portal.

S3C (France): standardized certification and improved communication

S3C, based in France, focuses on providing standardized certification for high-pressure water jetting and vacuum/pressure pumping. Their approach ensures competence and safety in the industry. Key aspects of S3C’s certification system include:

1. Best practice manuals: S3C develops and publishes best practice manuals and competency charts, which serve as a valuable resource for trainers. These materials are used to construct training curriculums for both in-house and contract trainers.
2. Two-part examinations: candidates undergo a two-part examination process comprising a theoretical exam with multiple-choice questions and a practical exam. Successful candidates receive a diploma and a work card that clearly displays their level of competence.
3. Asset owner requirements: asset owners can mandate that contractors employ only certified staff, providing assurance that staff are trained and competent. This practice minimizes risks and enhances safety on the worksite.
4. Improved communication: the inclusion of asset owners’ coordinators in the system enhances communication and understanding among all stakeholders. Standardized terminology ensures effective communication and clear expectations.

DIRV (Germany): comprehensive training programs and modules

Germany’s DIRV (Deutscher Industrie-Reinigungs Verband) focuses on providing job qualification and education modules for the industrial cleaning sector. The organization offers comprehensive training programs and emphasizes adherence to industry regulations and standards. DIRV’s training is based on:

1. Dual vocational education and training: DIRV offers a state-recognized, three-year apprenticeship program for “Fachkraft für Rohr-Kanal- und Industriereinigung” (Professional in Pipe, Canals, and Industrial Cleaning).
2. Company education and training programs: these initiatives are designed to comply with regulations. They also integrate standards such as SCC (Safety Certificate Contractors) where relevant.
3. Training modules: DIRV develops training modules for various cleaning disciplines, including HP Water Jetting, Vacuum Cleaning, Chemical Cleaning, and more. These modules cover technical, environmental, and legal aspects.
4. Certifications: after successfully passing independent tests conducted by the German Chamber of Commerce, participants receive certifications that demonstrate their competence in the respective discipline.

ALTAP (Spain): regulating water jetting training

ALTAP, in Spain, has shown a dedication to the specialized training of water jetting industry workers. Their initiative is designed to regulate and standardize industry activities. Key aspects of ALTAP’s training program include:

1. Varied training positions: ALTAP provides training for various roles, including operators, preventive resources, site managers/implementation, technicians, prevention delegates, middle management, and management staff.
2. Trainer qualifications: ALTAP mandates that trainers meet specific requirements, including age, specialized industry knowledge, preparation for training, health and safety education, knowledge of waste management, and external certification for online training.
3. Mentorship: each training course assigns a mentor who actively supports students’ progress, monitors participation, arranges tutoring sessions, selects final exam tests, and suggests improvements to educational materials.
4. ALTAP offers a basic course that provides a certificate. They also offer four specializations, but to obtain them, it is necessary to have completed the basic course. The specializations are: Municipal and Sewer Cleaning, Industrial Cleaning, Construction Applications, and Surface Preparation.
5. Certification: upon completing the training and passing the exam, participants receive certification associated with their employer company, and it is valid for five years. There is also a digital course verification system, just like in the WJA Association.

Water jetting training in Europe is essential for ensuring the safety and competence of workers in this industry. Empowering Europe’s water jetting standardized training matters. Organizations like the Water Jetting Association (WJA), S3C, DIRV, and ALTAP have introduced standardized training programs, certifications, and continuous improvement initiatives. These efforts not only enhance safety but also promote efficiency, quality, and compliance with industry standards. As water jetting continues to play a vital role in various sectors, comprehensive training remains a cornerstone of success and safety.