Corona Update 13 - Extension of temporary Corona measure

In our previous advisory note (10th February 2022), GWO re-implemented the 60-day refresher training extension.  

Assessing the current situation of the pandemic with the continued spread of the Omicron variant and subsequent isolation requirements in certain regions, the GWO Audit & Compliance Committee has extended the 60-day refresher extension measure described below until and including June 30, 2022:  

Course participants who owing to a Covid-related cancellation are unable to attend a refresher course within the 24 months validity period, may refresh expired training up until a maximum of 60 days after expiry.  Any refresher training taken using this exemption must be completed no later than June 30, 2022. In such cases, the course participant shall take steps to do so at the earliest possible opportunity and must, prior to being admitted to a refresher course as far as practicable, document to the training provider reasonable COVIDrelated justification for cancellation of the original planned training.  

The measure to allow attendance to refresher courses up until 60 days after expiry does not constitute an extension of agreed validity periods for GWO training and does not constitute a general exemption towards employers and dutyholders to ensure employees have adequate safety competences.  It remains an employer prerogative to make decisions on whether to require valid training or give exemption.  

GWO encourages employers who employ technicians whose training validity expires and who have reasonable reasons for expiry, to consider making exemptions and to take other measures to maintain necessary safety skills in whatever way is locally practicable, such as through exercises and managerial supervision. It continues to be important that the affected persons remain competent to perform their job functions safely and does not pose risk to themselves or to others working around them in the interim period  

Should local situations change for the worse, and merit that we locally re-instate further measures and exemptions, these may be considered by the GWO Audit and Compliance Committee upon written proposal from members, certified training providers or approved auditors.  

GWO continues to advise training providers to follow World Health Organisation guidelines for prevention in schools, workplaces and institutions, as well as to follow recommendations from national health authorities. During the delivery of GWO training, take reasonable precautions to deliver the learning objectives while observing precautionary measures to avoid spread. Specific guidance was given in previous versions of this advisory.

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