New GEA president launches MOT engineer accreditation

Andrew Bates, sales director of Straightset Ltd, was recently appointed president of the Garage Equipment Association (GEA), according to a statement released by the trade body. One of the first items on his agenda was announcing the latest developments relating to the association’s Engineer’s Accreditation Programme during his president’s speech at this year’s GEA dinner.

Bates commented: “The next step in the GEA Engineers Accreditation Programme will focus on MOT calibrations with particular attention given to the correct calibration practices for brake testers. No more calibrating brake testers with the front wheels of a van, or repeat calibration certificates sent in the post! The only people to fear this accreditation are the ones who have no concern for safety themselves, their clients, or the public.”

Dave Garratt, chief executive of the GEA commented: “The Vehicle Lift Installation Engineer’s Accreditation has been very successful in improving safety within our industry and has been supported by the HSE. The next step in testing the skills and knowledge of those who calibrate MOT equipment will hopefully be as successful and already has the support of VOSA.”

As well as giving the new president a platform for his inaugural speech and for the announcement of the MOT calibration accreditation, the GEA dinner also raised £3,400 for the motor industry benevolence fund BEN.