Some of our engineers are returning from a mobile tower erection course, and have been told that all persons that erect a mobile tower must be trained and competent.

Does anyone know if this is a recent change, or is the training company trying to drum up some business?

I used to deliver training on mobile tower erection, and it was my understanding then as now that as long as one person carrying out the erection process has been trained, they can ensure the tower is erected safely.

Thanks.

I am slightly confused, though, as the guidance on the HSE website states that 'Towers should be erected by trained and competent people.', inferring that all persons involved in the erection process should be trained and competent.

Anyone ASSEMBLING a tower should have had suitable and sufficient training. It doesn't have to be PASMA but most large sites or companies insist on this.
There is a specific PASMA training course available for persons who will only be working from mobile towers but who are not building or dismantling, adjusting or moving them.
It's called Work at Height Essentials which is a half day course.
Would you let your engineers use a Stihl Saw or drive a MEWP without training?

For what it's worth we allow others to erect a tower providing the are directly supervised by a PASMA T person (not PASMA L - that's only for podiums).

They have to be supervised at all times though - in effect it means the PASMA T person sometimes has a 'mate' with him to help in the erection.

The PASMA T person signs it off at the end.

(I've heard it mooted before that anyone can build a tower as long as it's checked at the end by the PASMA T person - I/we don't allow this as the act of erection for a tower can be hazardous in itself if you don't know what you're doing)