QUALICOAT recognise that training Laboratory Technicians is essential to ensure that quality is achieved and maintained in the application of architectural powder coating. Proper training equips Laboratory Technicians with the skills to operate equipment accurately, follow standard operating procedures laid down in the QUALICOAT Specification and adhere to safety and quality guidelines that are also in the latest version.
In fields such as finishing technology and environmental analysis, well-trained technicians play a key role in maintaining precision and consistency in measurements, reducing errors, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Continuous professional development, including hands-on training, certification programs, and updates on emerging technologies, helps Laboratory Technicians stay proficient in new methodologies and best practices.
Regular training also enhances the reliability of laboratory results by reinforcing attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and adherence to quality control protocols. Laboratory Technicians must be trained to recognise contamination risks, calibrate instruments properly, and interpret data accurately to ensure Specification compliance. In industries where aluminium pre-treatment and finishing technology are concerned, material properties and chemical compositions must meet strict specifications and this is where well-trained technicians help maintain high standards. By investing in ongoing training, member’s laboratories can uphold quality assurance, improve efficiency, and maintain trust in their results.
Licensed applicator members of QUALICOAT are required to have an operational testing laboratory with calibrated equipment within their premises. The purpose is to continuously test finishes, and also monitor and record the status of the working coating line which includes pre-treatment and powder coating processes. The QUALICOAT Specification clearly states at what parameters the coating line should run to achieve a finish which can be claimed to meet the QUALICOAT label.
To ensure compliance licensed member’s Laboratory Technicians must attend a training day at least once every two years where they will review procedures, new equipment, and review updates to the Specification. Held once a year, many Laboratory Technicians attend yearly to keep their knowledge up to date.
This year QUALICOAT UK & Ireland are holding training sessions on two consecutive days. The first day will be aimed at new Laboratory Technicians and new members joining the Association. The second day will be aimed at existing members or returning Laboratory Technicians where the focus will be on developing their skills and seeking feedback for the Association to review and amend methodology to further improve finish sustainability.
Consistent quality can only be achieved with an experienced workforce and an attention to detail; the Laboratory Technician plays a crucial role in ongoing employee expertise.
Available as a free download the QUALICOAT Specification is constantly being updated to reflect new methodology. Applicator members in the UK & Ireland are twice yearly, third party reviewed by unannounced inspection by IFO, a German based independent test house. Licensed members will have their licenses revoked if the fail to comply with the current Specification.
Should you wish to attend a training day and apply for membership of QUALICOAT please get in touch. All QUALICOAT UK & Ireland members are available to offer advice and can be found on the Association website at qualicoatuki.org
