The ITACET Foundation, alongside the ITA-CET Committee is embarking on a new type of training session – with TBM simulators at the core of the training…

TBM training simulators have become increasingly popular recently, with various advanced models having been developed. The Simulators have the advantage of helping trainee TBM drivers to acquire the correct reflexes for dealing with a wide variety of situations that they may come across in real-life excavation.

To this end, a TBM driver certification scheme is currently under development by the ITA-CET Committee, following an initiative from ITA WG14 and the ITAtech Activity Group on Excavation (SubAG TBM Service Guideline). The scheme aims to adopt a holistic learning approach, encompassing classroom teaching, e-learning, training on a simulator and supervised work experience. The goal is to provide an independent and standardized means of assessing TBM drivers, leading to recognised ITA certification that should ultimately improve the overall quality of TBM based works.

This certification scheme will be offered to future operators of TBMs, as well as those already in the profession who wish to deepen their knowledge of how to handle a TBM under various demanding circumstances. The final training in a real TBM driver’s seat will be gained under the supervision of experienced drivers and at the end of the training, students will need to successfully complete various modules (theory-based elements with e-Learning and lectures, online exams, simulator training and assessment, oral assessment and proven working experience) to gain the accredited certificate.

While the scheme is still in development, a first one-week pilot course is envisaged for mid-2020 at the Hagerbach Test Gallery in Switzerland. It will be conducted by experienced TBM experts and can be tailored for specific TBM types. The detailed syllabus of the ITA TBM Driver Certification Scheme will be published after final approval by the ITA-CET Committee Steering Board and implemented in collaboration with ITACET Foundation.

Here at the Foundation, we are looking forward to our role in this exciting new scheme and are ready to take on the responsibility of the administrative aspects, including the issuing of certificates and records of accredited drivers.