We are expanding our work with m-technology platforms. This work is now funded by TEC and you can find out more about this on our dedicated page by clicking here or looking under our Sector Leadership Projects.
Background

The electrotechnology and electricity supply industry training sector in Australia has used Work Activity Profiles (WAPs) for a number of years. Trainees and employers in Australia have raised concerns about the time it takes, and data integrity. We have similar concerns about the WAP system in New Zealand.

Electrical apprentices at the Australian Rail Track Corporation Ltd (ARTC) recently took part in a pilot programme which trialed mobile phone technology (m-technology) known as a Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID).

Mobile phones inserted with RFID chips were issued to selected apprentices and supervisors. Each chip held data specific to the apprentices’ WAP requirements. Small transmitter devices, similar to a small band aid, were attached to the work vans and offices.

Each day, trainees used their phones to display their required WAP exposures and simply ticked what had been completed during the day and to what level of supervision. Supervisors could then bring up each apprentice on their phone and sign off the exposures in their own time.

The phones are “swiped” over the transmitting device which immediately updates the database, providing the employer and apprentice with real time, accurate data of the apprentices’ WAP progress.

The technology is supplied by GlobalNet ICT, an Australian-based company, which invited ESITO to observe the pilot programme in Wagga Wagga. As a result, ESITO is now ready to pilot the technology in New Zealand in conjunction with GlobalNet ICT.

For further information on RFID, visit www.globalnetict.com.au

Purpose

The purpose of the trial is to determine if the mobile technology can be used by ESITO and its members to replace the current WAP system.

Participation

The technology will be trialed by a number of Energex and Northpower trainees and supervisors for three months, beginning in June 2008. 

Evaluation

For a copy of the evaluation, please click here to download the power point presentation.If you have any further questions in relation to this pilot, please contact ESITO's Industry Standards and Development Manager at dougp@esito.org.nz.