Crossroads: Why the Prevailing Competence Narrative Has to Change

Introduction

The belief that completing the MPQC Site Safety Awareness and Behaviour Course serves as definitive proof of competence is a dangerous misconception that could undermine industry safety standards. While the course provides some useful knowledge, it lacks critical components necessary for a comprehensive evaluation of driver competence. This critique will logically challenge this notion, highlighting the substantial differences between theoretical knowledge and actual demonstrable skills, as exemplified by the EMPI Awards Site Vehicle Competence Assessment (SVCA).

Theoretical Knowledge vs. Practical Competence

Driver CPC Course:

• Nature of Training: The course is fundamentally theoretical, delivered through classroom or webinar sessions, lasting 7 hours.
• Assessment Method: It culminates in a 15-question multiple-choice test that assesses knowledge retention.
• Outcome: Successful participants receive a driver skills card, which is promoted within the sector as proof of competence.

Logical Flaw:

• Lack of Practical Assessment: The course does not test practical driving skills or behaviours in real-world situations. Knowledge alone does not equate to competence, especially in safety-critical industries like quarrying, mineral extraction, ready-mix concrete or transport.
• Not a Qualification: Completing the course results in Driver Skills Card. Even though no actual skills have been tested. This is not a qualification, it is a certificate of training.

EMPI Awards SVCA:

• Nature of Training: The SVCA includes both theoretical and practical components, assessing drivers in real-time driving scenarios and work conditions.
• Assessment Method: The assessment involves on-site evaluation, testing practical driving skills, behaviours, and past experience. It includes progressive grading (pass, credit, distinction) and is renewed every three years.
• Outcome: The certification reflects a comprehensive and ongoing assessment of a driver’s true competence.

Logical Strength:

• Real-World Testing: The practical skills assessment in real-time situations ensures that drivers can apply their knowledge effectively and safely in actual work environments.
• Continuous Competence: Regular renewal and graded certification ensure that drivers maintain and improve their skills over time, adapting to new safety practices and industry standards.
• Regulated Qualification: The SVCA is an internationally recognised vocational qualification regulated by SQA Accreditation in the UK.

Industry Safety and Accountability

Safety Standards:

• Driver CPC Course: Relies on theoretical knowledge and a knowledge test, which can lead to complacency and a false sense of security regarding driver competence.
• SVCA: Enforces rigorous and continuous assessment, promoting ongoing learning and adaptation, thereby enhancing overall industry safety.

Accountability:

• Driver CPC Course: Without practical assessment and regular re-evaluation, there is little accountability for ensuring drivers maintain their competence over time.
• SVCA: Provides a robust framework for accountability, requiring drivers to demonstrate their skills and knowledge regularly, and incentivising them to strive for higher levels of competence.

Conclusion

The idea that completing the Driver CPC Site Safety Awareness and Behaviour course is proof of competence is fundamentally flawed. Competence, particularly in safety-critical roles, requires more than theoretical knowledge; it demands the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios, continuous learning, and regular assessment. The EMPI Awards SVCA addresses these needs through its comprehensive, practical, and ongoing evaluation process. By contrast, the Driver CPC Site Safety Awareness and Behaviour course, with its theoretical approach and test, falls short of providing a true measure of driver competence.

To ensure the highest safety standards and genuine proof of competence, the industry must recognise the limitations of the Driver CPC Site Safety Awareness and Behaviour course and adopt more rigorous and comprehensive assessments like the SVCA. Only then can we ensure that drivers are truly competent and capable of maintaining safety in the demanding environments of quarrying, mineral extraction, ready-mix concrete & transport.

Gavin Brain BA(Hons) FIQ ASET Professional Educator with 25 Years of Experience in Industrial Competence Assessment Responsible/Accountable Officer of EMPI Awards