The Australian Pacific Training Coalition (APTC), in partnership with the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), has spearheaded a ground-breaking initiative to elevate safety standards within Fiji’s construction industry.
In a statement, AIFFP emphasised that central to this initiative was the introduction of the Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry course
Called CPCWHS1001, the course is designed to equip Fijians with Australian-accredited safety credentials.
AIFPP said this course not only ensured compliance with Fiji Roads Authority’s (FRA)stringent safety protocols but also enhanced workers’ ability to navigate hazards and implement effective safety measures.
“After a successful pilot and feedback in 2023, it was refined and delivered to 65 FRA inspectors and road renewal contractors earlier this year.
“Upon completing the training, workers on construction sites will be equipped with essential safety training, ensuring they are well-versed in identifying hazards and implementing effective safety protocols.
“The AIFFP’s approach prioritises local employment and capacity across its projects, and the road renewal contracts are all locally-registered contractors with the majority of workers being local Fijians.”
They said this internationally-recognised certification equipped officers with advanced skills in competency-based training and assessment, aligning them with global best practices.
These officers are now better prepared to lead safety initiatives within FRA, ensuring continuous improvement in safety standards and organisational capabilities.
Gareth McGrath, APTC country director for Fiji and Tuvalu, said those initiatives had a transformative impact on the transportation sector in Fiji.
“The opportunity to deliver the course is the first for Fiji and the APTC is happy to support this initiative, ensuring participants are trained and empowered with crucial skills, setting a new benchmark for safety and enhancing awareness and accountability among workers and managers within the civil work sector,” Mr MCGrath said.
“Now proficient in new skills and tools, these officers are prepared to tackle local challenges and lead safety training for FRA staff, significantly boosting organisational capabilities.”
