Asbestos bulk analysis

Standard details

CITB has developed this standard in discussion with industry

Duration

Minimum 3 days of 6 learning hours per day

Purpose/Scope

The Control of Asbestos Regulations imposes duties on every organisation who analyses samples for the identification of asbestos to be accredited by UKAS for this activity. Laboratory analysts will need to be able to analyse and identify asbestos from within samples collected out on site in accordance with the procedures described in HSG248.

The objective of this qualification is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding to be able to carry out this role in the workplace. Possession of this qualification by staff will help organisations and companies meet the accreditation criteria for ISO17025 (testing bodies).

The scope of this standard covers:

• different types of asbestos
• asbestos containing products
• risks to health
• legislation
• use of polarised light
• features of asbestos fibres
• equipment required
• refractive index liquids
• mistaken materials
• procedural errors
• quality control procedures
• safety procedures
• preparing samples
• polarising microscope
• asbestos fibre characteristics
• analytical procedures
• personal protective equipment (PPE)
• respiratory protective equipment (RPE)

Occupational relevance

Training delivered against this standard would be relevant to the following occupational groups:

• analyst
• analyst supervisor
• analyst manager

Candidate pre-requisites

It is recommended that the candidate should have bulk analysis experience plus an awareness of the contents of HSG248 Asbestos: The Analysts’ Guide for sampling, analysis and clearance procedures.

Instruction/Supervision

As a minimum, course instructors must be able to demonstrate that, in relation to this standard, they have:

• a train the trainer or instructional techniques course certificate e.g. NVQ Level 3 Learning and Development or higher 
• successfully completed training to this standard 
• at least 3 years relevant experience
• a verifiable CV.

Delivery

Delivery may be in an on or off the job environment.

All materials and equipment must be of a suitable quality and quantity for candidates to achieve learning outcomes, and must comply with relevant legislation.

The class size and candidate/instructor ratio must allow training to be delivered in a safe manner and enable candidates to achieve the learning outcomes.

The following delivery methods may be used in the delivery of this standard:

• a mixture of classroom and demonstration and practice

This standard is considered to contain 51 per cent or more practical learning. 

This standard is considered to be set at an advanced level.

Assessment

For the successful completion of training, candidates must complete an end of course practical assessment or knowledge test that measures the learning outcomes and has a pass or fail criteria.

Quality assurance

Recognised

CITB will gain assurance through the third party’s quality arrangements. 

 Approved Training Organisations will be required to supply confirmation of approval (centre approval and scheme approval) with the related third party awarding organisation or body. In most cases this will be an approval certificate provided by the third party awarding organisation or body, listing the routes, qualifications and categories they are approved to deliver. In addition, a copy of the most recent external quality assurance monitoring report will be required, relating to the standard that you wish to be approved for.

This information will be reviewed by CITB’s quality assurance team. Approval will be subject to the required third party documentation being supplied by you. As part of the quality assurance checks, CITB may confirm the accuracy of documentation with the issuing organisation.

Renewal/refresher

Mandatory Refresher

Approval date

To be confirmed

Review cycle

Either on request or in 3 year(s) from approval date.

Learning outcomes

Additional information

Other organisations who work with asbestos awareness

ACAD (Asbestos Control and Abatement Division)

ARCA (Asbestos Removal Contractors Association

HSE (Health and Safety Executive)

NFDC (National Federation of Demolition Contractors)

UKATA (UK Asbestos Training Association)

NASC (National Association of Scaffolding Contractors)

IATP (Independent Asbestos Training Providers)

BOHS (British Occupational Hygiene Society)

RSPH (Royal Society for Public Health)

NORAC (National Organisation of Asbestos Consultants)