It contains a range of useful features which will enable managers to assign job functions to staff, assess training needs and record employees’ skills, capabilities, training and achievements. The tool can also be used to identify gaps in learning and help employers build professional standards, leadership and management skills.

The Professional Skills Framework will allow businesses to prepare for inspections by offering a comprehensive checklist, as well as the option to store employees’ records of achievement. Alastair Johnston, Lantra’s agricultural partnership manager, is keen to stress the importance of regular training. He says: “There is a tendency for farming businesses to invest in staff training and development which does not lead to corresponding gains in productivity. This is due to training and knowledge transfer being perceived as nothing more than a legislative requirement or a day off the farm”. It is hoped that the new tool will help combat some of the productivity issues afflecting the industry, such as those caused by inefficient use of staff or lack of training.

Lantra will be located in Hall 19 of the NEC on stand BM-213. Staff will be on hand to discuss how the Professional Skills Framework can help your business develop and grow.

In addition, Lantra will be joining forces with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to deliver a number of safety demonstrations at the event. Lantra will be delivering five demonstrations covering the topics of general health and safety, safe use of lift trucks, machinery safety, safe use of all terrain vehicles and livestock handling. The presentations will be delivered by Lantra Awards instructors and will include practical displays. The displays can be seen outside Hall 17 at the venue.

Alastair says: “We understand how critical working safely and efficiently is in driving down accident rates. This is why we’re a member of the Farm Safety Partnership and offer technical training through Lantra Awards to help you address safety at work.” Lantra also offers the Level 2 Certificate in Health & Safety (Agriculture & Horticulture) qualification which has been developed in conjunction with the HSE. The qualification is designed to help employees identify hazards and adopt safe and healthy working practices. Full details of the course can be found here: www.lantra.co.uk/CourseFinder/Course-Listings/Certificate-in-Health---Safety-(Agriculture---Hort.aspx

With agriculture still the UK’s most dangerous industry, the importance of avoiding expensive accidents and reducing injury remains critical. According to Farmer’s Weekly, a recent survey of farmer attitudes towards health and safety revealed that 68% of respondents knew someone who had had an accident at work. Furthermore, 30% of employers never gave their workers any health and safety training whilst only 53% of seasonal or part-time workers received the same training as full-time staff