Press Release
For immediate release

New series of competence card schemes to improve health & safety across the metal recycling sector

The schemes, developed by CIWM in association with BMRA, will provide proof of skills, competence, and qualifications through digital credentials.

The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) has today, 13th September, announced the development of a new series of competence card schemes designed to provide evidence of the capability and competency of individuals across the metal recycling sector.

Created in association with British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA), the schemes are the first of their kind in the metal recycling sector. They will enable organisations to quickly and easily check that workers and contractors have the required skills and training, and the appropriate health and safety awareness to be on site. This will lead to improved health and safety in the workplace and reduce the risk of accidents occurring on site.

The initiative includes four schemes of recognition: Contractor and Site Visitor, for external contractors and visitors; Operative, for employees, apprentices, skilled operatives, and craftspeople; Supervisor, for contractors responsible for overseeing work; and Manager, for those in management and senior-management roles.

The competence for the card schemes will be confirmed by a Pearson VUE test and evidenced via a card, linked to a digital credentials system, which can be scanned by employers. A number of short answer response, scenario-based and multiple choice questions (MCQ), as appropriate to the level of card, will ensure the metal recycling workforce are operating safely and organisations are able to identify personnel with recognised health and safety skills.

The schemes will also provide a solid foundation for staff training and will ensure that health and safety awareness training is managed effectively and updated every four years.

Katie Cockburn, Professional Services Director at CIWM, said: “Without any professionally recognised competence card schemes, it can be incredibly difficult and time consuming for businesses, big and small, to ensure that contractors are appropriately skilled for the tasks they are undertaking on site.

“CIWM is delighted to be able to support these organisations through dedicated card schemes which will not only make it much easier for them to complete reference checking, but also enable them to recruit and retain employees and demonstrate that they are a responsible employer.”

“The BMRA is pleased to be supporting the development of a sector-specific card scheme. Given the inherent dangers of a metal recycling site, a system that allows organisations to quickly check anyone working on site has the appropriate training and skills is to be warmly welcomed,” said James Kelly, CEO of the BMRA.

The first scheme, for contractors and site visitors, is due to launch early 2022 and CIWM, along with BMRA, will be consulting with contractors this Autumn to get their views on what should be included.

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Notes to editors:

1. CIWM: CIWM is the leading professional body for the resource and waste management sector representing around 5,700 individuals in the UK, Ireland and overseas. Established in 1898, CIWM is a non-profit making organisation, dedicated to the promotion of professional competence amongst waste managers. CIWM seeks to raise standards for those working in and with the sector by producing best practice guidance, developing educational and training initiatives, and providing information on key waste-related issues. More information can be found at www.ciwm.co.uk

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