The Locksmith Journal Mar/Apr 2023 - Issue 85 | Page 57

SECTOR INSIGHT

GAI LAUNCHES IMPROVED CPD MODEL FOR 2023

» THE GUILD OF Architectural Ironmongers ( GAI ) has introduced a new model for the continuing professional development ( CPD ) of Registered Architectural Ironmongers ( RegAIs ) and others working in the architectural ironmongery sector .
The changes have been designed to ensure the annual CPD requirements for architectural ironmongery professionals remain in line with those for other professionals in the construction and comparable industries .
GAI Chief Executive Simon Forrester said : “ GAI courses and qualifications are recognised around the world as setting the highest possible benchmark for knowledge and understanding in the
architectural ironmongery sector .
“ As the construction industry continues , in the wake of the UK ’ s new Building Safety Act , to address the critical issue of professional competence , it is vital that we continue to set an equally high benchmark for the ongoing learning and assessment of RegAI and other registered and certified specialists in our field .
“ Importantly for standards throughout our sector , we are also opening our CPD programme to non-accredited members for the first time , in order that they can build and maintain vital skills and knowledge regardless of their intention to become fully registered professionals .”
The changes increase not only the amount of CPD activity required every
year , but also the quality and amount of assessment involved . Three core topics , of which at least one will be based on an update to standards and regulations , will include compulsory coursework . The requirement for 20 CPD points a year can then be completed via a wide range optional CPD activities ranging from GAI Community Hub presentations , webinars and online quizzes through to creating training material
or presenting to industry audiences .
To support the new programme , the GAI is also launching new CPD facilities on its Learning Hub , enabling online assessments and the automatic logging of CPD activity on the GAI website through the individual member ’ s profile .
For more details on the GAI ’ s new CPD model and resources , visit www . gai . org . uk / CPD

Partnering up with ABUS 24 / 7

» THE ABUS PARTNER PORTAL IS THE industry leading digital platform and webshop for locksmiths to access the ABUS range of cylinders , locks and smart security products 24 / 7 from anywhere – home , office or on site . Locksmiths can now buy ABUS products online through the ABUS Partner Portal and receive FREE DELIVERY at www . partner-uk . abus . com The Partner Portal website enables locksmiths to buy ABUS products online across a wide range of our padlocks , door cylinders , mobile , travel and hardware products , anytime , anywhere . There is a handy real-time stock availability colourcoded indicator so they can be sure that the products they need will arrive on time and exclusive access to news on new product launches as well as a downloads area where marketing materials can be downloaded for partners promotional purposes .
As well as shopping online across the main ABUS padlock and cylinder ranges with real time access to stock levels at www . partner-uk . abus . com locksmiths can view full order history , place orders quickly using EAN numbers , track live and historical orders , create a personalised favourites list , and find out the latest product promotions and discount offers .
For a brief overview of the ABUS Partner Portal and how it can help make locksmithing digital , visit Youtube .
ABUS is a global manufacturer of high quality , innovative security , access , and safety solutions with a nearly 100 years ’ history of innovation . ABUS UK is part of a worldwide group of companies that supplies and distributes a huge range of both electronic and mechanical security products and systems for home , mobile security , and commercial security .
MAR / APR 2023
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