Working in blocks of flats and other multi-dwelling buildings brings unique safety challenges – confined spaces, shared access routes, residents on the move, fire compartments and more.
Our Smart Awards SA031 – Working Safely in a Multi-Dwelling Unit (MDU) course gives telecoms and utilities operatives the practical knowledge and accreditation they need to work safely and compliantly in these environments, in line with current UK legislation and industry standards.
Who is this course for?
This course is ideal for anyone who works inside multi-dwelling units (MDUs) as part of telecoms or utility installation, maintenance or repair, including:
- Fibre and copper installation engineers
- Telecoms and broadband field engineers
- Network build and maintenance operatives
- Contractors working in social housing and private apartment blocks
- Team leaders and supervisors who oversee works in MDUs
Whether you’re new to MDU work or looking to formalise your experience with a recognised Smart Awards accreditation, SA031 is designed for you.
What you’ll learn
By the end of the SA031 course, delegates will be able to:
- Understand key legislation and standards
- Health & Safety at Work etc. Act
- Relevant fire safety and building regulations
- Industry and client-specific requirements for MDUs
- Recognise hazards in multi-dwelling environments, such as:
- Shared access routes, stairwells and corridors
- Fire compartments, risers and escape routes
- Working in communal areas, basements and plant rooms
- Slips, trips, falls and manual handling issues
- Carry out effective risk assessments in MDUs
- Identifying who may be harmed (residents, visitors, other trades, colleagues)
- Selecting suitable control measures
- Reviewing and updating assessments as conditions change
- Plan and work safely around residents
- Managing resident interactions professionally
- Safeguarding considerations (vulnerable residents, lone working)
- Minimising disruption, noise and obstruction
- Apply safe systems of work for MDU tasks, for example:
- Routing and installing cabling in communal areas
- Safe use of tools and equipment in enclosed spaces
- Housekeeping and keeping escape routes clear
- Protect fire integrity and building fabric
- Understanding fire-stopping responsibilities and limits of own role
- What to do if existing fire-stopping or building condition is unsafe
- Respond appropriately to incidents
- Near-misses and hazard reporting
- Emergencies, alarms and building evacuation procedures
The qualification is mapped to National Occupational Standards, helping employers demonstrate compliance and robust safety management for work in MDUs.
Why choose Utilities Training North West?
- Specialists in utilities & telecoms training – our instructors are industry-experienced and understand the realities of working in MDUs, not just the theory.
- North West training centre with great access – convenient for employers and operatives across the region.
- Smart Awards approved provider – we already deliver a wide range of Smart Awards qualifications, including SA001, SA002, SA006, SA007, SA020 and more.
- Flexible dates & on-site options – open courses at our centre, or private courses for your team at your premises (subject to suitability).
- Employer-friendly admin – support with bookings, course records and reminders for refresher training.