Nationwide suspends training, depots open

Nationwide Platforms, the UK’s largest access equipment rental company, has postponed all its training courses but its depots remain open.

“During these uncertain times as the Coronavirus outbreak continues to unfold, we have made the decision to temporarily postpone all training courses until the 23 April,” said the company.

“While there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 at Nationwide Platforms locations, we have a duty of care to protect the health and wellbeing of our customers, staff and the communities in which we operate. As a matter of priority our Training Support Team are getting in touch with those that will be affected by this decision. If you have a training course booked up to and including 22 April, we will contact you to offer an alternative date, subject to availability.”

Nationwide depots are still running, albeit under strict guidelines on working aligned to the UK Government’s guidelines. Don Kenny, Nationwide Platform’s CEO, said, “Where possible, Nationwide Platforms is working hard to ensure as close to a business as usual customer service as possible, however, we acknowledge this will become more and more challenging. We will support all our customers to the best of our abilities.”

“In support of the national interest, we have a clear policy of supporting the UK’s emergency services and critical infrastructure and will continue to do so throughout the COVID-19 crisis.”

In support of social distancing, all Nationwide employees are working from home where possible, while field engineers and truck mount operators have all been briefed on the revised COVID-19 business continuity measures. “COVID-19 business continuity control measures ensure each of our machines receives a high-pressure wash upon returning from hire. Truck and van mounted platforms receive a cockpit cleanse prior to each hire.”

Kenny added, “We will continue to put the wellbeing, safety and health of our employees, customers and communities at the heart of everything we do. We wish you the very best of health and look forward to continuing to support your business.”