The Milking Equipment Association

The Milking Equipment Association is an independent organisation dedicated to representing the interests of milking equipment manufacturers, suppliers and distributors.

GEA Farm Technologies is a founder member of the MEA and works together with other members for the benefit of the dairy industry.

Objectives

The objectives of the MEA are to:

• Promote the interests of the manufacturers of milking equipment, associated suppliers and distributors

• Promote best practice in animal health and welfare

• Put the views of the manufacturers of milking machinery to Government Departments, Local Authorities, UK Parliament, the European Commission, European Parliament and other relevant organisations

• Promote, take part in or assist promoters of exhibitions, shows and demonstrations of milking machinery and to encourage the efficient use and better understanding of milking equipment by distributors and customers

• Provide commentary, guidance and advice to Members on legislative and regulatory developments affecting the milking equipment manufacturers and associate members

• Be a research and statistics collection centre providing, exchanging and publishing non-competitive information relating to the sale and supply of milking machinery

• Represent milking equipment manufacturers and associate members in contacts with the press, radio and television and other public media.
  

The Milking Equipment Technician Accreditation Scheme

In 2011 the MEA launched its new qualification for dairy technicians. 

The Milking Equipment Technician Accreditation Scheme sets the standards and improves working practices, meets the needs of the farm, and associated animal health, milk quality, and farm assurance requirements, plus provides a career platform to inspire young people to enter the industry as qualified dairy technicians.

There are four MEA technician categories:

• Category 1 – Unskilled, unproven or apprentice
  Requirements:  No previous knowledge of dairy industry.  Minimum entry level:  GCSE Maths, Science subject, all level C or above.

• Category 2 – Assistant MEA technician
  Requirements:  A good understanding of Category 2 basic principles.  Can only work as an assistant and under supervision on installation and servicing.  Minimum entry level:  GCSE Maths, Science subject, all level C or above.

• Category 3 – Independent MEA technician
  Requirements:  Category 2 accreditation and good technical knowledge.  Can supervise.  Trouble-shooting capability and product specific knowledge.  Minimum entry level:  Successful completion of Category 2.  Minimum 12 months experience as Category 2.

• Category 4 – Master MEA technician
  Requirements:  Category 3 accreditation and good technical knowledge of Category 4 subjects.  Ability to train other technicians and train within dealerships.  Minimum entry level: Successful completion of Category 3.  Minimum two years experience as Category 3. 

ParlourSafe

ParlourSafe is the new campaign by the MEA ensuring that your milking technician meets Farm Assurance Standards, is trained to the highest industry standards, and is accredited by the MEA.  Find out more in the video below:

More information

Find out more about the MEA at www.milkingequipment.uk.com