HARDWARE & SECURITY
Strong foundations : future proofing your career
Since the tragedy at Grenfell Tower almost four years ago , the construction industry has been put under the microscope . This has also meant increasingly scrutiny on building products – their manufacture , performance in use , specification , installation and the competence of all the people who work with them .
» AS THE INDUSTRY MOVES CLOSER to establishing a competency matrix for construction products , locksmiths and trade counter staff are being encouraged to demonstrate their competency through proven qualifications .
The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers ’ ( GAI ) Foundation in Hardware has been designed to improve the knowledge of those who need to understand the basics but don ’ t need to live and breathe architectural ironmongery in their day-today jobs .
The Foundation in Hardware is an ideal option for many in the sector . It ’ s an introductory course consisting of 12 online modules . There are questions at the end of each section followed by a final exam , and the final qualification proves that you have a good overview of architectural ironmongery . It covers a range of door hardware products including hinges , closing devices , fire and escape doors and also looks at standards and the basics of access control .
‘ No other qualification offers such a broad knowledge and understanding of ironmongery ’
Improve customer service
For people in sales and other customer facing roles , the Foundation in Hardware provides a basic technical knowledge of hardware that can help staff to answer technical queries and solve problems , and therefore provide better customer service .
Flexible learning
Designed with flexible learning in mind , the Foundation in Hardware online course and examination allows students to study at their own pace . Once signed up , students will have up to six months to complete the course . The final online examination can be taken as many times as needed until the 80 % pass rate is achieved and a Certificate of Competence will be awarded upon completion .
Keep up to date with the latest standards
The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers ( GAI ) is the only trade body in the UK that represents the interests of the whole architectural ironmongery industry - architectural ironmongers , wholesalers and manufacturers .
Its education programme is the only internationally recognised architectural ironmongery qualification to British and European standards .
Rachel Tipton , GAI education manager , said : “ We are continually developing our courses to ensure that they are up to date with the ever-evolving architectural ironmongery product offerings and legislation .
“ The GAI education programme is suitable for architectural ironmongers , trade counter staff , wholesalers and manufacturers ; anyone who encounters door hardware on a regular basis and wants to ensure they are always giving the best possible advice to their customers .
“ No other qualification offers such a broad knowledge and understanding of ironmongery . The GAI is very proud of the Foundation and Diploma programme and its status as the most recognised qualification in the industry .”
A free course taster is available to outline the style and content of the course .
Download the prospectus from the GAI website : www . gai . org . uk
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MAY / JUN 2021
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