The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) has launched a new Continuing Competence test for Northern Ireland which will become the new standard for demonstrating the technical competence of operators of waste management facilities across the country.
The Waste Management Licensing (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022 require the operators of waste management facilities to join and comply with an approved programme, such as the CIWM (WAMITAB) Operator Competence Scheme, to demonstrate they maintain the required level of technical competence.
Until now, operators in Northern Ireland have taken the same test as those in England and Wales. However, CIWM said it has worked with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) to develop a new Continuing Competence assessment which takes account of any regional variations.
Commenting on the launch, CIWM’s Professional Services Project Manager, Jacqui Brunton‑Douglas, said: “The fact that the new Continuing Competence test for Northern Ireland incorporates any differences in working practices and legislation means it will provide an even more accurate and relevant demonstration of technical competence.
“The NIEA has stipulated any company representatives who currently hold a valid Primary Competence must book and pass the Northern Ireland Continued Competence test by 1 April 2025 and those who currently hold a Continuing Competence test must pass the new Northern Ireland test prior to its expiry.
“On that basis, we would recommend that tests are booked well in advance to ensure they can be sat at a convenient location and time.”
When booking their Continuing Competence test, Northern Ireland learners should ensure that they select the Northern Ireland version of the test which can be found here: https://home.pearsonvue.com/wamitab.
