Asbestos bulk analysis
Overview
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
The candidate will be able to: | Additional guidance to support learning outcome |
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Explain the health risks uses and properties of asbestos. |
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Describe the legislation relating to asbestos. |
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Describe how polarised light microscopy can be used in the identification of asbestos fibre. |
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Explain the factors that may prevent the identification of asbestos fibres by polarised light microscopy. |
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Describe the safety requirements for the use of polarised light microscopy in the identification of asbestos fibres. |
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Carry out preparatory procedures for identifying asbestos fibres by polarised light microscopy. |
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Carry out polarised light microscopy for the identification of asbestos fibres. |
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Carry out appropriate health and safety procedures in the analysis of asbestos samples. |
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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)
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