Section one: Moving from Competence to Excellence

What does competence look like in this area? 

• to work safely in accordance with legislation and company policies 
• be able to interpret technical data, diagrams and methods 
• remove external body panels using a range of cutting, grinding and abrasives   
• prepare new panels and the structure of a vehicle for the relevant joining methods in accordance with technical data 
• align new body panels using manufacturer’s technical data to all adjacent panels and trims  
• the ability to join materials to retain structural integrity using a range of techniques including MIG braze, MAG welding, adhesive bonding and riveting 
• restore all jointed areas using abrasive materials whilst maintaining structural integrity 
• reinstate corrosion protection materials.  

What does excellence look like in this area?  

• evaluate all potential dangers to personnel and property. Warn others of hazards and give suggestions on how to make working areas safer  
• ruff out dents and identify high and low crowns 
• knowledge and ability to competently use a range of different techniques for shaping panels; direct and indirect hammering.   
• reinstate the contours and shape of the panel to meet the requirements of the filling materials set out in the technical data 
• correctly interpret technical data sheets to ensure the correct preparation of the surface of a panel for products   
• mix, apply and sand a range of products to reinstate the original contours of a panel  
• rectify any damage caused by the repair process and reinstate corrosion protection materials.  

What does competence look like in this area?

• to work safely in accordance with legislation and company policies 
• ruff out dents and identify high and low crowns  
• knowledge and ability to competently use a range of different techniques for shaping panels; direct and indirect hammering 
• reinstate the contours and shape of the panel to meet the requirements of the filling materials set out in the technical data 
• correctly interpret technical data sheets to ensure the correct preparation of the surface of a panel for products   
• mix, apply and sand a range of products to reinstate the original contours of a panel   
• rectify any damage caused by the repair process and reinstate corrosion protection materials.  

What does excellence look like in this area?  

• evaluate all potential dangers to personnel and property. Warn others of hazards and give suggestions on how to make working areas safer  
• reduce the size of a dent using a range of tools and techniques ensuring minimal impact to the further panel 
• the use of a wide range of skills, tools and equipment to shape the metal work of a panel without stretching or over thinning 
• the correct use of low heat to aid the shaping of metals and to avoid work hardening  
• ensuring that the overall shape of a panel is achieved and only minimal filling material, if any, is required   
• the metal work is finished with a fine grade abrasive with no deep gouges, filing, burning or abrasive marks 
• no further damage is done to the inner panels, seams, sound deadening and corrosion protection is reapplied.