Background

The Professional Lighting and Sound Association (PLASA) was formed over 30 years ago to look after the interests of the entertainment, conference, architectural and communications industries.

As part of its role it was asked by leading players in the rigging industry to facilitate the development of an independent programme to help deliver a competency framework in the form of a qualification across the industry.

Problem

Over the past few years the rigging sector has been affected by increased external regulation and tougher levels of health and safety. The problem was magnified because there was no qualification specifically aimed at the specialist, and potentially dangerous work carried out by riggers when lifting and suspending equipment and products for live events.

Many of those employed within the sector are freelance workers and so have to fund their own training and assessment. Any relevant qualification would not only need to be fit for purpose but flexible and accessible enough to ensure that the use of time is maximised and it is cost effective.

In response to these problems, PLASA initially developed an existing practitioner Level 2 and Level 3 National Rigging Certificate with industry employers. However, through the process it realised that it would be beneficial to become an official awarding body so that it can provide regulated qualifications and set the standards for skills in the sector.

Process

The next step is the development of a Level 1 Trainee Rigger programme for 'new entrants' into the industry. Development of the programme will start in the summer of 2008 and will cover the core skills required for rigging in any sector and provide a pathway for someone trying to reach the Level 2. This will involve training and on the job work experience before assessment at Level 2.

PLASA will be working with employers in the Live Event sector and the QCA to develop the units that make up the qualification, ensuring that it is 'fit for purpose' and delivering candidates who have the skills needed to succeed in the industry.

The new Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) allows the units developed by PLASA to be accredited and also provides opportunities for broadening each individual's skills base as well as enabling progression. This is because candidates can build up units in addition to the main certificate over a period of time, which offers flexibility and demonstrates the variety of skills freelance and employed riggers have to potential employers.

Quote

Nicky Greet, Professional Development Manager at PLASA comments:

'The real benefit of us becoming an awarding body is that we can offer industry led qualifications that have been developed for people who work in a specific sector by the employers of that sector. This level of input into the qualification and the fact that it sits in the QCF will guarantee that those workers who achieve their assessment will attain a credible qualification that demonstrates what they actually do, whilst also ensuring that it is delivered in such a way to fit in with the flexible nature of work in the industry sectors PLASA represents.'