Returning after the UK lockdown, Continuing Competence Test centres are now open. The Environment Agency has given TCMs until the 30th of September to renew their competence. Wiser Environment urges operators to book their test ahead of time and attend an accredited revision session.
In March 2020, Wiser Environment provided guidance on how technically competent operators could maintain their competence during COVID-19. Representing the industry, Wiser’s senior consultants communicated with regulatory bodies and persuaded them to take a pragmatic approach. Back then, the Environment Agency (EA) expected technically competent managers (TCM) to have adequate contingency plans in place; ensuring that their site could still operate safely.
As on the 18th of June 2020, the awarding body – WAMITAB – has confirmed that Pearsonvue Test Centres are now back open. Due to social distancing guidelines, WAMITAB explains that there is limited availability for tests. As a consequence, the awarding body suggests that TCMs book their Continuing Competence Test at the earliest opportunity.
The test centre operator, PearsonVue, stresses that:
“Some Pearson VUE-owned and operated Pearson Professional Centers are available for testing in the UK…If you exhibit symptoms upon arrival at the test centre, you may be asked to reschedule your exam for another time when in full health. We strongly recommend that you wear a face mask or face-covering in the test centre and while taking your test to protect yourself and others.”
Deadline to maintain competence extended until September 30th
Wiser Environment understands that there are a significant number of TCMs who were unable to renew their competence during the lockdown. With this in mind, Wiser welcomes the EA’s decision to enable Continuing Competence compliance to be extended until September 30th. In other words, TCMs have just over three months to take and pass the Continuing Competence Test. Wiser recommends that TCMs do not wait until the last minute. Instead, attend a Wiser Training accredited revision session and brush up on environmental legislation.
Continuing competence test centres are now open and the team at Wiser are geared up to prepare TCMs for their exam. To book a revision session and for more information contact Wiser Environment or call on 01480 462232.