We train non company operators on a regular basis, people looking for a career change, unemployed etc. In the U.K a Novice operator should undergo 37.5 hours training, then pass an ABF test of BASIC skills before a certificate is issued. The certificate is only proof that that person has received adequate basic training in line with HASWA section 2. Specific training should then be completed on the job itself. Fact of the matter is that everyone has to start somewhere. A lorry driver has to pass a test after training before he can even apply for a job for example, and even us instructors are trained at a training centre arent we.
U.K operator training comprises 3 elements - Basic, Familiarisation and specific job, all 3 stages of training should be completed before an operator is released onto the job itself. We and other providers provide Basic at our training centre.