AO boosts delivery service by offering drivers a gas apprenticeship

Online electricals retailer AO is offering its drivers the chance to train as gas engineers so they can safely disconnect and connect gas appliances when delivering to customers’ homes.

As part of AO’s installation offering, its engineers disconnect the old appliance at the point of delivery and safely install the new one with a full health check.

The engineers are accredited with Gas Safe registration, NICEIC electrical accreditation and membership to CHAS, the UK provider of compliance and risk management solutions.

Following the launch of the new apprenticeships, AO said it is now successfully upskilling and training several cohorts.

The fully funded course, which is aimed at both current employees, contracted drivers and self-employed drivers, provides an accessible pathway to the Level 3 gas qualification.

The AO funded scheme runs alongside a driver apprenticeship funded by the government apprentice levy.

It offers comprehensive training in driving a 3.5 tonne van, gas qualifications and functional skills across 16 months.

Lynne Wood, AO Logistics director of service delivery, said: “I’m so proud that we can now invest in providing accessible opportunities by offering these gas apprenticeships for the first time.

“Many of the contracted drivers and electrical installers have jumped at the chance to train in gas, and I’m so pleased we can support their future careers.

“With more qualified gas engineers on hand, we can also make our leading delivery and installation proposition even better for customers.”

Running for up to 16 weeks, the fast-track programme consists of both online and classroom teaching, as well as on-the-road experience to quickly upskill participants.

AO acquired the two-person delivery company, formerly Expert Logistics, in 2009. It offers next-day delivery to every UK postcode seven days a week on its range of 12,000 electrical products.