EBME Forums Forums Management Professional Issues VRCT - Who's Re-Newed?

Here's a link to the IET's code of conduct IET . Section 8 is particularly appropriate to what we do.

Myself, I'm still in mourning for the passing of the S.X-Ray.T.

We had a BAOR Chapter at one time, you know.

I really can not understand how the VRCT or any other 'old boys club' can improve standards of work. All you have to do is send in a copy of some bits of paper with a reference that you work in the industry and you are in. In my experience of work, it is the engineers with good character, rather than the paper chasers, that delivered good practice.

Hey Barney! You're back (where have you been?)!

Yet again, I agree with what you're saying.

But I would suggest that Registration is not about improving (raising, or even maintaining) standards. Apparently - and I cite earlier posts on this thread by others - it's supposed to be about Regulation (but don't ask me how) and, er, Recognition (for those who are seemingly concerned about such things).

Regulation? How? Well I think we are supposed to be impressed that a wayward tech could be struck off the list! I wonder how that will work? A tribunal? Or being judged by one's peers? My Goodness ... just imagine!

Have a look at the hpc site makes some interesting reading, particular the CPD section. A big difference between what the VRCT have been doing and what would happen if it went compulsory! Random checks to see if your keeping up to date and have a look at some of the things people have been struck off for. Real strange one is Paramedic suspended for eating on the job!

Now that is strict you don't get the IET or VRCT doing checks.

That's supposed to be the Manager's job (or, if not, then why have them?)!

Hasn't the message reached you yet, Chris? The People of England have rejected the Nanny State (or worse) where everyone spends half of each day (at least) "checking up" on others.

Jobsworths are not welcome, Mate.

I notice that no-one on here has yet mentioned the demise of CRB checks that presumed that half the nation were criminals (potentially, at least)! So here I am ... mentioning it! Honest, decent, folk resent that sort of thing you know.

Just as honest, decent, technicians resent those who "snoop" about, checking on their CPD status, what's in their lunch box, or whether they are wearing clean underwear today.

well Geoff although I haven't seen the HPC on a list of quangos it is being retained by the current government. Although it will be changing it's name because their adding social workers to their remit, so at least the current government doesn't seem to be classified it as part of the Nanny State. Compare this with some of the others that the Government are scrapping like the HPA!

Care to comment again once you have caught up with today's news articles, Chris? Here are a couple of tasters:-


But no doubt "lessons will be learned" (again).


Note that again ... "Nothing is happening".

That's the reality, Mate. So why should the Register be anything but yet another toothless tiger (albeit a tiger able to tick boxes, and, er ... generate "careers" for those in charge of it)?

Morning Geoff!
Feels like enforced regulation without adequate representation in the decisions that are made.
I would venture that whilst the idea of VRCT seems the way forward, a lot of work needs to be done to ensure the direction is correct. I have followed this thread with interest; I feel no particular need to be classed as a "Clinical" Technologist or likewise part of the Allied Healthcare Profession or be lumped in with Healthcare Scientist's. I don’t profess to hold clinical knowledge or have aspirations to be a "Nurse". I fix medical equipment, and find that the available routes for New Entrants to the VRCT, who perform my job, aren’t very well thought through. Hopefully, this will change.

As for the demise of CRB Checks? Working with Children or vulnerable Adults? Essential, I would have thought?
Outside that group, not really needed.

Mornin' Sean


Perhaps. But just what is the idea (in concise terms, if you please)?

Or is it just another wishy-washy vague do-good tree-hugging kinda feels OK thingy (a bit like Call Me Dave's "Big Society" idea*)?

But (before you answer) may I first refer you back to Bill's post about the IET? See also IPEM.**

As you indicate (and in case anyone else has forgotten), we are Engineering Technicians!

* But one that he can't articulate, unfortunately.
** Other engineering associations, institutes and societies are available.