The scheme, which certifies that waste industry professionals are technically competent to perform their jobs, has been run jointly by the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) and Waste Management Industry Training and Accreditation Body (WAMITAB) since 2009.
Employees are required to sit a continuing competency test at a set date every two years, but under changes announced by the bodies last week, a new rolling programme will make it more flexible and accessible.
From March 1, certificates will be date stamped, with an expiry date effective from the second anniversary of the achievement.
CIWM chief executive Steve Lee, said: We are delighted with these improvements to the Continuing Competence Scheme. The scheme itself has worked well, helping thousands of TCMs to prove their on-going competence. Giving each individual their own specific deadlines for demonstrating their competence to regulators and customers will make the scheme even more user-friendly.
However, TCMs should remember that the current (fixed) competence period ends on 28 February 2014, so tests should be booked early to avoid disappointment.
Compliance period
The current two-year period remains in force, which means there are just six months remaining until the end of the current competency period on 28 February 2014. Technically Competent Managers (TCMs) for waste management facilities must ensure they have passed their Continuing Competence tests, where they are required.
Chris James, chief executive, WAMITAB, said: We are pleased to announce this important revision to the CIWM/WAMITAB Continuing Competence Scheme. The scheme is a vital way of ensuring that those responsible for permitted sites keep up to date with legislation and current good practice.
However, it is equally important that the process is both flexible and accessible to those working in the sector. The introduction of the rolling programme will remove set deadlines and provide individuals with their own two-year period of competence. We expect this to be of benefit to both individuals and their employers.
From November 2013 those obtaining their certificates will see a change in the way the renewal timescale is specified. The new style certificates will clearly show a specific date by which a new certificate must be obtained.
In order that no candidate is disadvantaged during the transition period, anyone completing the test in the period up to 28 February 2014 will receive a certificate with an expiry date of 29 February 2016.
Subscribe for free