THE MCRMA (Metal Cladding & Roofing Manufacturers Association) has announced the launch of a new institute for the UK’s metal roofing and facades specialists.
The MCRI – Metal Cladding & Roofing Institute – is said to have been developed in response to the ‘significant change’ impacting the whole construction sector. This is placing increased scrutiny on whether the individuals employed to complete a task within the supply chain are competent to do so.
Unlike the MCRMA, which is an association of companies, the MCRI is focused on individuals. One of its core objectives is to encourage the development of the skills and knowledge of members through the involvement of recognised CPD learning and the engagement of others to advance their careers within the sector.
The MCRI will facilitate a range of CPD-approved training modules and materials via the MCRMA and other sources covering the design, installation, and maintenance of metal cladding and roofing.
Another priority will be communication and keeping members up to date with the latest information on newly emerging standards, policies, and processes.
Four membership grades are available – affiliate, associate, member, and fellow – to reflect an individual’s experience and skills, all of which require a minimum of 24 hours CPD to be completed annually. In conjunction with a health, safety and environment test, members and fellows will also be eligible to apply for the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) card.
Associates, members, and fellows will also be able to demonstrate their expertise to the wider construction industry through a personal profile on the MCRI website and regular communications from the institute will ensure members are kept in the loop about important developments.
Carlton Jones, director of the MCRI, said, “The construction sector is rapidly changing and that makes it extremely important for everyone involved in the metal building envelope supply chain to ensure they are aware of what they need to do to stay compliant – and find the support they require to do so. That’s why we have developed the MCRI.
“This institute primarily recognises the knowledge and experience of individuals, rather than what businesses or companies offer collectively, and that is why one of the founding principles is to support those working in the sector to promote their competencies and continued development.
“Another important dimension to the MCRI is recognising and representing those who work behind the scenes and are less customer-facing, but who make an enormous contribution to the success of metal building envelope projects. Individuals working in back-room technical roles and business support teams, for example, often have a wealth of knowledge and experience but they are sometimes overlooked. We want to change this by enabling them to become MCRI members, so their involvement can be formally recognised, and the institute can support their needs for ongoing development and compliance with competency demands.”
Anyone interested in becoming an MCRI member can request a membership pack by emailing info@mcri.co.uk.
