MRF training modules set to plug operational skills gap

Reprocessor Axion Consulting has developed the unique service following a number of requests to deliver process operator and technical management training for both new and existing MRFs.

According to Axion director Keith Freegard, packages are tailored to suit the individual MRF process and feedstock mixture, whether it’s sorting and separating plastics or a residual waste MRF dealing with organic fractions.

“Very often a fresh group of people are recruited to run a newly-built MRF and this creates two big training needs – firstly how all the equipment works and secondly, getting all the employees to work as a team,” he explained.

“We’ve developed methods of encouraging people to work in teams and groups by applying the knowledge they’ve learned to solve hypothetical problems. This then helps them to identify and plug any knowledge gaps.”

Axion was recently commissioned by M+W High Tech Projects UK to deliver an extensive training package for more than 40 multi-skilled operators, technicians and managers at Biffa’s £100m MBT facility in West Sussex.

Subjects covered during the six-day programme ranged from health and safety, disaster planning and ‘real-life’ scenarios to teambuilding activities, culminating in individual assignments and competence assessments.

Maxine Perella