Midwest, a mechanical and electrical contractor delivering installations and maintenance across construction sites, MOD projects, and local councils, faced significant hurdles in managing compliance and training effectively.
Their reliance on generic, paper-based RAMS documents frequently led to client rejections, increasing frustration and compliance risks.
Training records, manually managed via spreadsheets and physical documentation, created operational chaos, especially with staff dispersed across numerous remote locations.
"It was a constant juggle. Either lots of chasing, stress and unnecessary journeys, or things slipping through the net and not being done."
Implementing HandsHQ’s RAMS software and Training Register transformed Midwest's approach to digital risk assessments and compliance management.
The onboarding process was smooth and efficient. Sue explained, "The support from HandsHQ was brilliant and still continues. They made the transition really smooth. "Sue described the initial experience, stating, "Creating a training record with actual certificates attached and then linking that straight into RAMS was amazing. Then I saw the COSHH register with all the data sheets already there… mind blown!"
HandsHQ’s RAMS software enabled engineers to digitally access, review, and remotely sign site-specific RAMS, drastically enhancing compliance. With Training Register software, the team can automatically upload e-learning certificates directly into RAMS, ensuring seamless tracking of qualifications and training.
Sue’s favourite feature is the remote accessibility: "Anyone can log in from anywhere and access RAMS or training records, which is super handy when juggling different projects and teams."
She highlighted the transformative impact: "Everything’s now digital and streamlined. Even the sceptics on the team came around quickly once they saw how easy it is to use."
"HandsHQ is a total game-changer for staying on top of compliance and training. It’s one less thing to worry about."
The impact at Midwest was immediate:
Sue noted long-term benefits: "We’re now proactive instead of reactive. We know when training is about to expire rather than finding out when a customer asks for a certificate and realising it's out of date." HandsHQ continues to be crucial in Midwest’s ISO certification processes (9001, 14001, 45001). Internal auditors praised the system: "Evidence is clear, easily retrievable, and relevant."
Sue strongly advised businesses still using manual processes: "Stop struggling. Seriously—this will make your life so much easier."
For Sue and the team at Midwest, implementing HandsHQ has significantly improved the way they work.
"I can’t actually begin to describe how great HandsHQ is and how much they listen to improvement suggestions and actually implement them! I’ve honestly never known a company so receptive."
Midwest Electrical Services Ltd, founded in 1988 in Wolverhampton, grew from a local electrical provider into a nationwide contractor, expanding into sectors like Defence and the NHS, while embedding high service standards and safety at the core of its operations.