The Drilling and Sawing Association (DSA) is the only organisation that represents the interests of companies involved in the drilling and sawing industry and is committed to improving standards within the industry by establishing better codes of safe working practice, education and training.
The association is also a member of the National Specialist Contractors Council (NSCC), which provides the DSA and its membership with representation on a range of organisations in the construction industry including CITB, CSCS, JCT etc.
The NSCC also provides free help lines and advisory services on: health & safety; industrial relations; legal and contractual; business and tax as well as access to adjudication services.
Guidance
The DSA Code of Safe Working Practice provides a comprehensive statement of safe working practices in the Drilling and Sawing Industry. Further specimen documents provide guidance and advice in the following areas: Health and Safety at Work Policy; Day Work Rates; Risk Assessment/Safety Method Statements to meet CDM regs to meet CDM Regulations; Sample Business Terms and Conditions; Environmental Policy; Equal Opportunities Policy.
Training
The DSA has co-operated with the CSCS Scheme Management in the production of a CSCS Card in Drilling & Sawing. The issue of this card is based on the achievement of an NVQ in Drilling & Sawing available through the DSA and the CITB. Further details of all card arrangements are available from the DSA Training Ltd, including the status of the previous DSA Cards.
An apprenticeship scheme for drilling and sawing operators has now been running for six years in conjunction with the CITB with training places currently available.
The DSA and DSA Training Ltd employ a Specialist Training Advisor who can search additional funding for a quality workforce and carry out assessments for NVQs. They will also assist with preparation of training plans, offer a Health & Safety Advisory Service and help with obtaining CITB grants for these activities.
DSA Training Ltd ensures that members are kept informed of information on Card Schemes, NVQs, and training grants. Members can also obtain Training and Accreditation services at preferential rates from the Association.
Publicity
‘The Concrete Cutter’ publication is produced and circulated to around 9,000 contractors, professional advisers and other potential clients within the construction industry. The DSA also publicly promotes the skills and experience of members within the construction industry and members are encouraged to participate in articles in the press.
The DSA is a founder member of the International Association of Concrete Drillers and Sawers, and links are developed with other organisations in the construction and concrete industries both in the UK and overseas.
The Association website contains a wide range of information on drilling and sawing techniques plus a list of all DSA members.
Group Purchasing
The DSA is continually investigating group-purchasing arrangements with specific suppliers who can provide members with beneficial terms and conditions. Currently they have agreements with Speedy Hire and HSS for the supply of tool hire to members at special discount rates.
