Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles backs TechSafe

In this article: The IMI’s TechSafe standard gain Government endorsement helping keep consumers and you safe

he IMI’s TechSafe standards for those working on electrified vehicles took a crucial step forward with the endorsement of the Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV).

A cornerstone of the TechSafe standards are the ability of electrified vehicle users to access the IMI Professional Register to check the electric vehicle technical competencies of technicians at their local garage. It’s an area that OLEV believes is a crucial step in giving car buyers confidence that their electric vehicle can be serviced, maintained and repaired by a garage with the right skills – and that removes a key barrier to EV adoption.

Minister of State for the Future of Transport, George Freeman, MP said: “Electrification of vehicles is happening and we want to make sure that drivers have confidence that their vehicles can be maintained and serviced to the highest standard. Safety will always be our first priority and building a sector equipped to manage the increasing demand of electrified vehicles is key.
 
“Today’s launch of the IMI TechSafe standards is a crucial step in providing electric car buyers with extra assurance and towards achieving a zero-emission future.”

But isn’t solely about protecting electrified vehicle users, but also making sure that those working in the industry are provided with the correct training, allowing them to succeed as technologies change and new skills are required.

The new EV TechSafe Standards, give technicians an easy way to certify their EV competence.  They will centre on EV qualifications, IMI accreditation, accredited training, professional behaviours and a commitment to CPD over an agreed number of years. The standards will comply with the Electricity at Work regulations, which are enforced by the Health and Safety Executive.

Steve Nash, the IMI’s CEO said: “As well as responding to the need to give EV drivers the reassurance that the garage they take their vehicle to has properly trained and qualified technicians, we believe these new standards are also crucial for employers.

“There are considerable challenges when it comes to ensuring staff are properly trained and qualified to work on electrified vehicles which pose a significant safety risk. The EV Professional Standard is a significant step forward to address these concerns, and it will not stand still.  The EV TechSafe standard will evolve with the technology and the needs of the motor retail industry.

“Throughout the process of developing the Standards collaboration has been crucial, to ensure they are fit for purpose and will genuinely address industry and public barriers to wider EV adoption.”

The IMI’s TechSafe standards have also been endorsed by others, including the SMMT which said that the standards are a timely initiative that can encourage EV uptake and aid others outside of the dealer networks to understand some of the myths and complexities of EV maintenance.

Want to learn more about the IMI’s TechSafe standards and stay up to date with all the latest development, head here

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