The IMI achieves success for automotive sector in ONS SOC code consultation

Updated descriptions ensure sector will be better represented in national statistics – critical for inclusion in industrial strategy

Following its submission to the ONS review of SIC/SOC codes relating to the automotive sector, the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has achieved some early success. The ONS has agreed to update the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system to better reflect the technical expertise of roles within the modern automotive workforce.

The IMI argued that the classification of automotive roles in broad categories limited the sector’s visibility in workforce data which meant it was not properly recognised, prioritised or funded in government policy. The omission of automotive from the Industrial Strategy published last year was clear evidence of this lack of visibility.

The decision by the ONS to update descriptions across a number of automotive occupations, as well as strengthen how technician roles around diagnostics, electrical and roadside work are captured, is a significant move which the IMI believes should help shape future government policy.

Emma Carrigy, Head of Research and Public Affairs at the IMI explained: “Automotive roles have previously been grouped into broad categories such as engineering, manufacturing and generic repair which does not do justice to the technical skill required. This has severely limited visibility of many roles within workforce data and meant policy has not considered the unique requirements. We are, therefore, delighted that our contribution to the ONS consultation has led to changes.”

Key changes:

• Descriptions across a number of automotive occupations (technicians, body repair, paint, fast-fit) will be updated
• The ONS will strengthen how technician roles are captured, particularly around diagnostics, electrical and roadside work
• The IMI definition for Vehicle Damage Assessors will be fully adopted by the ONS 
• Some new role titles will be added to the SOC system, including roadside technician and bus & coach

“These changes to how our sector will be represented in national data will ensure the workforce is more visible and more appropriately represented, which was our core objective,” added Emma Carrigy. “However, this is by no means the complete transformation our sector needs. The lack of structural changes or new occupational groups means emerging occupations – particularly those linked to electrification and new technologies – are not yet reflected within the classification system. And this is a critical issue for road safety.

“Without accurate representation in the data relied upon by government and policymakers, the needs of the automotive sector may continue to go unnoticed. We already have a significant skills gap, and without enough qualified technicians to work on the most technologically advanced vehicles in the coming years there is a serious risk to the safety of our roads.

“SIC/SOC codes have a direct impact on how industries are prioritised and supported. The IMI will, therefore, continue to champion clearer recognition of the people and professions that keep the UK automotive sector moving and road users safe.”

Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes are used to classify industries and businesses and Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes are used to categorise occupations across the UK labour market.