United Rentals' United Academy Online Training Center
Words: Dan KamysUnited Rentals Inc. has released its United Academy online training center, a comprehensive hub for safety training and operator certification. The site is accessible in English, French and Spanish at http://UnitedAcademy.ur.com.
United Academy encompasses a wide range of courses related to jobsite safety and compliance, including operator certifications for aerial and excavation equipment, OSHA 10-hour and 30-hour classes, confined space entry and competent person training, and train-the-trainer certification. Additionally, the site facilitates training management for employees and employers through:
- Easy certification management: Course completion and certificate records are stored online, and a unique QR-encoded card provides access to training profiles via a mobile device or computer. Automatic notifications alert workers and employers when certifications are nearing expiration.
- Multiple delivery methods: Classroom training can be performed at customer locations or at a United Rentals location in the United States and Canada. Select courses are also available online to minimize disruptions during the workday.
- Corporate account benefits: Companies can qualify for quantity discounts, manage the distribution of training to employees, maintain employee profiles (including the tracking of third-party training records), and report on training performance for management and compliance purposes.
Additionally, the company will begin offering blended learning for certain programs in its United Academy curriculum - a technique that integrates online instruction and examination with a face-to-face, practical evaluation at a participating branch. Blended learning courses for boom lift and scissor lift operators will be available starting in mid-July, followed by counterbalance and rough terrain forklift certifications.
Michael Kneeland, CEO of United Rentals, said, "We believe that United Academy will be a powerful force for safety in the industry. It reflects our continued commitment to protecting construction, industrial and municipal workers through the practical application of professional education. The thousands of customers we train each year will now have even more resources at their disposal, including the latest innovations in training techniques."
United Rentals is the largest provider of construction and industrial equipment rental services in North America, and a longstanding advocate of safety advancements. The company recently was named a Charter Member of the Campbell Institute, the environmental, health and safety center of excellence of the National Safety Council.