NDTG’s Virtual CCDO Smart Card Scheme launching

17th July, 2017 signifies the launch of the NDTG’s Virtual CCDO Smart Card Scheme using ‘Vircarda.’ The first to market with this technology from partner Reference Point, the NDTG were keen to build upon the momentum gathered since its launch of their CCDO Smart Cards back in August 2016.

What is a Virtual Smart Card?

From Monday, 17th July, new applicants have the choice of being issued with a Virtual CCDO Smart Card in addition to a physical CCDO Smart Card. The virtual card works by way of an app downloaded to the card holder’s smartphone or tablet saving the need to carry cards on site.

All of the demolition worker’s relevant qualifications can now be stored on the 'Vircarda' App. The virtual card can simply be scanned and read by the site supervisor on the same Go Smart software used for reading a physical card, working in much the same way as an online ticket for a flight.

How does it Work?

On completion of an NDTG application form, the customer service team at the NDTG will issue members with a Virtual CCDO Smart Card.

When a virtual smart card is set up, an email and SMS containing a personal registration number and PIN is sent to the cardholder and includes directions on how to download the Vircarda app.

1. Select your NDTG Smartcard in Vircarda.
2. Select the ‘Read Card’ function and Vircarda generates a secure QR Code.
3. The person checking your card reads your QR code and is then able to access the required information stored on your Smart Card - these QR codes can only be read using the Go Smart app.
4. You receive a notification that your card has been read with the time and location, where available.

The Right Choice

“We are delighted to be the first to market with the launch of the eagerly awaited Vircarda CCDO Virtual Smart Card using the Gencarda cardholder management system. This once again proves that the demolition industry remains at the forefront of technology. The Virtual Smart Card gives workers and supervisors immediate access to information, reducing both the need to carry a physical card and the possibility of fraud. Furthermore, the app will work on Apple devices, which is a big plus.” NFDC/NDTG CEO Howard Button.

NDTG notice to members regarding Demolition Awareness training

Below is a copy of the letter sent out by Howard Button, chief executive of the NDTG, with regards to Demolition Awareness training and achieving a CCDO Competency Card. We've included the text in full for your convenience. Please click the image below to see it full size.

Howard Button is concerned about the future of training

A message from Howard Button, CEO of the NFDC:

The CITB meeting on 16th December 2015, focused on predicted changes following the implementation of the Government’s Apprentice Levy announced in the Autumn Statement, with a levy of 0.5% being charged on firm’s payroll exceeding £3 million.

The predicted effect on CITB income is a reduction of a massive £32 million. The change, due for introduction in April 2017, leaves many questions unanswered for CITB and more importantly for BIS.

Various options were tabled by CITB to compensate for the predicted £32 million shortfall from 2017, with several industry hybrid levy options tabled; all of which naturally resulted in cuts to the training board income.

Thankfully, not many NFDC member companies are directly affected by the Government charge, however the general knock-on affect to CITB grants may well be catastrophic for the industry in general, despite CITB advising that grants would still be available.

Simple maths however, tells us that you can only play with the funds you have.

Howard will be monitoring the situation carefully over the coming months and reporting any developments as they arise.

Source: NFDC

NFDC/NDTG announce another Working Wednesday (but this time it is on a Tuesday)

Regular readers will know that Howard Button CEO of the NFDC and Sophie Cox NDTG Group Manager are always keen to provide relevant topical information for members of both organisations and have done so over the past few years by the very well attended "Working Wednesday" initiative.

They have decided to continue with these successful events in 2014 with an event in London on May 20th.

Owing to difficulties in finding a suitable venue on a Wednesday this event will be a "Working Wednesday" on a Tuesday!

The meeting will look at the proposed changes to the Construction Design & Management Regulations and the consultation document currently in circulation. Speakers are still to be confirmed.

The venue is the Royal Horseguards Hotel (venue for NFDC AGMs in the past) and the event will start at 14.00.

As Howard and Sophie expect the event to be very popular you will need to book in advance by contacting the NFDC.

NDTG posts AGM 2013 round up

The last NDTG AGM had one of the biggest turnouts it has ever seen at the Britannia International Hotel on February 7th. A full rundown of what occurred can be found in the March edition of NFDC Demolition & Dismantling Magazine. However, here's some highlights:

• Richard Dolman highlighted a new High Reach Specialist Upskilling Programme, enhanced CPCS Testing for Skidsteers & Mini Excavators, and a restructure of the CCDO/CSCS Scheme
• Iain Kirk showed training figures were up 29% over last year with 781 candidates going through Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal Training through the NDTG & its Approved Providers
• Sophie Cox appealed for employers to get on board with the E-learning Pilot for Demolition Company Directors
• Howard Button talked about the opportunity to develop a Demolition Plant simulator for foundation level training and upskilling
• Jim Caldwell introduced the members to a new institute called ARMI which will be available in the not too distant future
• Martin Morrell updated everyone on the grant scheme changes and informed members of the increase in Short Duration off-the-job training grant which is now set at £50
• Steve Hyatt talked about the working relationship between NSAC, NDTG & NDTG (Scotland)
• Mel Edwards discussed the upcoming changes to the CPCS Renewal process
• Richard Dolman received a chain of office medal

Source: NDTG