To address the need for work ready Heavy Equipment Operators (HEO), the Government of Manitoba has implemented an initiative to develop a field test to assess a person’s overall suitability to work in the Heavy Construction industry. This field test, developed and validated by subject matter experts in the industry, reflects the 2004 industry-defined occupational standards of this occupation. It evaluates many aspects of HEO including health and safety requirements, required tools and equipment. The field test is primarily a demonstration of the person’s knowledge, skills and attitudes when working in the industry.
Competency is defined as a person’s ability to demonstrate the skills and attitudes required for a particular job. The purpose of an HEO assessment is to identify where an individual’s skills are compared to what is needed for an entry-level HEO. Not all applicants will be ready to work and there are a few instances when applicants fail completely. The assessment will also result in a clear understanding of any training that may be required. The assessment is intended to point the way to employers and employment or for referrals to further training, employment counseling, upgrading opportunities, or work experience.
When the applicant arrives on site, the person is checked to see if they are dressed appropriately and have current Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). After the validity of their driver’s licence has been verified and the currency of Certificates (First Aid, WHMIS and Dangerous Goods) confirmed, the field assessment begins. In each of the skill demonstration components, a minimum of 80% of the competencies described must be demonstrated by the applicant. If, for example, there are 10 assessment criteria, then the applicant must demonstrate 8 of these to pass this area.
Once the demonstration of the lock-out and tag-out procedure and all of the required pre-op documentation is completed, a job that an entry-level HEO would be expected to perform is demonstrated. The type of job undertaken depends on the type of equipment available for the field test. At the end of the test, the assessor determines the results and informs the applicant of the results.