APM Terminals has taken a new step in its transformation process towards a top-tier asset management organization, integrating training requirements from original equipment manufacturers (OEM, for its acronym in English) directly into the new procurement specifications. The goal is for the transfer of skills to be measurable, auditable, and contractually enforceable.
To support the transition from reactive maintenance to more predictive asset management, a global team has worked to align the technical development of personnel with operational needs, the company's Technical Competence Framework, and established industry practices. The aim is to ensure that the training provided — especially during the commissioning phases and large-scale renovations — translates into verified capabilities on the ground, and not just attendance records.
At selected terminals, such as Suape in Brazil, the package of training requirements imposed on manufacturers has been strengthened to standardize the delivery of training in commissioning and major renovations, in line with the Technical Competence Framework and good industry practices. This approach establishes a common foundation among different families of equipment while allowing for the specific depth of each manufacturer where necessary.
One of the fundamental changes is to require that all training be accompanied by minimum evidence that can be systematically audited. Among the required deliverables are the attendance record with date, hours, and instructor; the result of the theoretical exam with scoring and pass/fail grade; the supervised practical checklist signed by the evaluator when applicable; the on-the-job training record with the scope of tasks performed; the manufacturer's certificate or diploma in digital format, or a verified list issued by the OEM itself; and the version control of training materials with reference to the manufacturer's updated documentation.
