Modern buildings are becoming increasingly complex. From glazed façades and atriums to high-rise developments with sophisticated access equipment, facilities managers are responsible for maintaining assets that would have been almost unimaginable a generation ago.
With that complexity comes responsibility.
Suspended access systems are often viewed simply as a means of enabling maintenance or window cleaning. In reality, they are safety-critical assets that require appropriate inspection, maintenance and competent management throughout their operational life.
For many facilities managers, however, suspended access is just one of dozens of specialist disciplines they oversee. It’s unrealistic to expect them to become technical experts, but they do need sufficient knowledge to ask the right questions, understand their responsibilities and appoint competent contractors.
This is why training has become increasingly important.
Recognising the need for flexible, accessible learning, SAEMA has developed an online training platform specifically for professionals responsible for suspended access systems.
Its Duty Holder Training course has been designed for facilities managers, building owners, consultants and anyone responsible for managing buildings equipped with suspended access equipment.
Completed in around an hour, the course provides a practical introduction to the subjects that matter most, including legal responsibilities, inspection and maintenance requirements, record keeping, risk management and the principles of safe system operation.
Because the course is delivered online, delegates can complete the training at a time that suits them, with knowledge assessed through a secure online examination. Successful candidates receive digital certification demonstrating their understanding of the key principles.
The platform also supports operatives through SAEMA’s Permanent Part 1 and Temporary Part 1 online courses, providing the theoretical knowledge required before progressing to practical training. Together, these programmes help ensure everyone involved in suspended access systems has a clear understanding of their role in maintaining safe working practices.
As the industry continues to evolve and expectations around competence increase, accessible online learning offers an effective way for organisations to build knowledge without disrupting day-to-day operations.
Ultimately, effective building safety begins with informed decision-making. By equipping both duty holders and operatives with the knowledge they need, SAEMA’s online training platform is helping to raise standards across the suspended access industry.
Find out more at training.saema.org.
