In the construction and mining industry, skills, safety, and compliance are of utmost importance. Excavator operators are one of the most in-demand roles in these sectors.
Some workers want to join the workforce without getting an excavator ticket, assuming it will save time and money. However, this is highly risky for your safety, as well as for other workers and employers.
If you’re wondering how, let’s examine the various ways a lack of an excavator ticket can impact everyone.
1. You’ll Miss Out on Most Job Opportunities
Most of the Australian employers demand certified excavator operators, whether in construction, mining, or civil work.
They don’t consider applicants without formal training, even if an individual has years of excellent practical skills and knowledge.
They insist on it because they need to comply with WorkSafe and mining regulators, as well as provide proof of competency for insurance coverage. It is also a must for government projects. They won’t risk their reputation by putting someone without proof of training in charge of heavy machinery.
An excavator ticket from a renowned and registered training organisation is a must to be eligible for almost any excavator job site in Australia. You must have all relevant credentials, such as a white card and a verification of competency (VoC).
Some assume that learning practical skills without formal training saves money and time. However, they won’t be able to pursue higher-paying jobs, such as trainer or supervisor roles. Instead, it will limit their growth, restricting them to low-tier entry-level positions with minimal job security.
Even if some employers let you operate an excavator without a certificate, they won’t offer you the right pay. They will offer you general labourer wages, and you won’t be able to legally go against them as you don’t have the proper certification.
2. There are Safety Risks
If not operated with proper knowledge, excavators can cause immense damage to the job site and inflict harm on other workers.
So, if you operate an excavator without a ticket, everyone considers you a workplace hazard. One small mistake can expose you to significant financial and legal liabilities.
Some common accidents from hiring untrained operators are tip-overs due to uneven weight distribution of the machine and incorrect digging techniques, leading to workers being buried alive.
Untrained individuals hit underground gas, water, or electrical lines, resulting in explosions. They may swing objects, potentially causing crushing injuries to workers.
Even a minor accident can disrupt work for weeks, resulting in significant financial losses. Furthermore, if you are involved in a workplace accident without a ticket, you risk your future employability.
3. You May Face Legal Consequences
In Australia, it’s illegal to operate heavy machinery such as excavators without proper formal training and licensing. If you’re caught operating excavators without a ticket, you may even have to take legal liability for others’ injuries and property damage.
As an individual, you might have to pay up to $30,000, and your employer may have to pay over $600,000.
During inspections, if untrained operators are found, the workplace may be shut down permanently. So, no employer would risk having you on their team.
4. It Indicates You Lack Professionalism
In the construction, mining, and plant operation industry, your credibility defines how people would perceive you.
With an excavator ticket, they understand that reliable officials train you, are committed to safety and compliance regulations, and are knowledgeable in all relevant areas. Your potential employer recognises you as a serious, career-centric individual.
If you show up to an interview without the ticket, they may feel that you don’t take the job seriously, don’t care about the job site and other workers’ safety, and lack accountability. You will not only lose the job opportunity but might also be blacklisted by them forever for your attitude towards your profession.
If you somehow land an excavator job and get caught, it will be a serious blow to your reputation. Upper management will terminate you and may even spread the word in their network against hiring you.
5. Employers’ Experience Insurance and Compliance Nightmares
Hiring an individual without an excavator ticket can directly result in costly consequences for contractors and employers, including insurance and compliance issues. If any incident happens, public insurance won’t cover damages. Workers’ compensation claims will be completely denied.
A history of poor safety standards will discourage potential clients from signing contracts. It might even make finding affordable insurance challenging.
Thus, it puts everyone around you at risk, and no employer would want to do that for a single individual.
Final Words
Even if you have adequate informal experience with excavator operation, it is recommended that you obtain your ticket before joining the workforce. This ensures everyone’s safety, supports your career growth, and protects you from liabilities. Invest in a course from a reputable organisation and flourish in your professional life!