A group of operators from EDF Energy and Cavendish Nuclear recently participated in a hands-on lifting and signal training programme at Ainscough Training Services Leyland facility, gaining practical experience and confidence in real-world applications of their skills.
The training, which ran across four days, introduced participants to updated safety protocols, including new hand signals and lifting techniques. For many of them, it was their first exposure to training like this.
“I just started this morning, and already I feel like I’ve learned a lot,” one EDF operator shared. “We’ve covered new signals and processes – everything’s really clear. It’s been great so far.”
The programme combines classroom learning with real-world simulation, giving participants a tangible, transferable set of skills they can apply immediately in their daily work. Candidates were delivering a number of lifting operations including a pick and carry.
“The first time I tried it, I found it a bit tricky,” another trainee admitted. “But by the third run-through, it was all falling into place. It’s definitely something you learn by doing – and now I feel confident.”
One of the supervising trainers echoed the sentiment. He said: “Before the lift our trainer gave us real encouragement and we just had the confidence to go out there and do it. And we did.”
As the assessment was ongoing, our trainer, Dave Patten said: “This lad’s got it absolutely bang on. He was doing everything exactly as I would’ve done it.”
The course is designed to deliver sustained value. While participants don’t need to return annually, follow-up site assessments are scheduled to ensure consistent standards across operations. Participants came from various EDF sites, including the Heysham nuclear facility. Many had not previously met in person, highlighting the importance of shared learning in a central location.
“It’s a great environment for getting everyone on the same page,” said one EDF staff member. “We’re usually based at separate locations, but this gives us the chance to connect and work through scenarios together.”
The Leyland training centre site itself was praised for its high-quality training environment and equipment.
“You can really see the investment in the facility. It’s fully geared toward safe, effective lifting solutions,” said another trainee. “It’s impressive – and important – for us to train somewhere that mirrors the real world.”
Operators also appreciated the structure of the programme, which allowed them to stay locally during the week. Many commented on the quality of instruction, and how it reflected in their colleagues’ performance post-training.
“One of our guys who came through the programme before is now doing his AP certification,” said a supervisor. “He came back saying how valuable the course was and now we’re seeing the same results with this group.”
As training concluded, the message was unanimous: the programme was not only informative but empowering. As one operator summed it up: “Everything we’ve done here has been excellent. It’s not just about ticking boxes – it’s about being ready to go out there and do the job right.”