F BALL and Co training officer, Steve Lane, has joined an elite group of UK flooring professionals by achieving National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers (NICF) Master Fitter status.

Master Fitters are practising fitters with the highest level of competence and knowledge in floorcovering installation.

Candidates are required to demonstrate mastery in installing a wide range of floorcoverings, including luxury vinyl tiles (LVTs), carpet and wood, through practical and theory examinations, as well as submit certified references for the standard of their work.

As an F Ball training officer, Steve promotes best practice in flooring installation by delivering free, hands-on training courses for flooring professionals at the F Ball Centre of Excellence and further afield according to customer requirements.

He has over 30 years’ experience in the flooring trade, starting his career as a flooring apprentice at 16 years old before running his own flooring business. He becomes the second member of F Ball’s training team to achieve the accreditation, after head of training Tim Green obtained the qualification last year.

Commenting on his award, Steve said: ‘Although I’ve spent most of my life in flooring, the process really put me through my paces. I’m delighted my skills and knowledge passed the test and I can now count myself amongst the most accomplished fitters in the country.’

Founded in 1979, the NICF aims to promote excellence within the flooring industry and an understanding and awareness of the British Standards Code of Practice for the installation of textile, resilient and timber floorcoverings, as well as provide assurance of quality of workmanship to the public.
www.f-ball.co.uk