HVP have endorsed FOLS as their preferred tool to manage operators’ high risk competencies

This week HVP Plantations (HVP) have adopted FOLS as their required standard for the recording of training and skills verification for high risk forestry activities.

FOLS is a national industry-led program, managed by ForestWorks. FOLS supports the professionalism and safety of industry through an online system of recording and verifying the currency of operator skills.

John Dodson, Human Resources Manager at HVP, said the decision to adopt FOLS aligns with their strong commitment to workplace health and safety.

“HVP have adopted FOLS for its own employees. We have endorsed FOLS as HVP’s preferred tool to manage operator’s high risk competencies.”

“FOLS helps to ensure workers are adequately trained, competent and safe to undertake their work activities.”

“HVP’s initial emphasis will be in harvesting but in time will review the application of FOLS for silviculture, road construction and haulage activities.”

“The decision to endorse FOLS follows a number of contractor information sessions that we conducted in conjunction with ForestWorks, across the state,” said John.

Lesia Clark, Skills Advisory Manager at ForestWorks, will be seconded to HVP from July 4 to support HVP and their harvesting contractors’ transition to FOLS.

FOLS is the national skills verification program for Forest Managers, Contractors and Operators.

FOLS helps to ensure workers have undertaken the required nationally recognised training and have kept their skills current through regular practice. It includes an online database which authenticates and lists a workers skills – particularly in high risk activities. Operators also receive a FOLS Card to demonstrate their skills.

Diana Lloyd, Contracts and Projects Manager at ForestWorks, said HVP is the first private plantation company in Victoria to adopt FOLS as their preferred tool to manage operators’ high risk competencies.

“FOLS has been successfully used for several years, particularly in native forests, to manage the skills of employees and improve safety in the workplace. We look forward to supporting HVP’s work health and safety efforts through the FOLS program.”

“We are committed to further developing FOLS so that all forestry businesses may one day benefit from FOLS,” said Diana.

For more information about the FOLS Skills Verification Program, visit fols.forestworks.com.au

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