Accreditation now offered to asbestos experts

Asbestos inspectors can now be UKAS-accredited with the launch of the National Individual Asbestos Certification Scheme (NIACS).

The scheme, a register of certified inspectors that will be marketed nationally, is a joint venture between the Asbestos Removal Contractors Association and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. CITB-ConstructionSkills Building Engineering Services is the certification body for NIACS.

Accreditation will be offered to those who possess the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health Level 3 Certificate in Asbestos Inspection Procedures.

Asbestos inspectors who possess the CITB-ConstructionSkills Certificate of Competence (valid for three years) can also apply.

NIACS is backed by insurance broker Howden UK, which is offering scheme members a professional indemnity insurance package.

The first inspector to achieve accreditation is James Corner of AH Allen in east Yorkshire.