Other Related Services
Provision of Technically Competent Management (TCM)
As part of our services EWS Consultancy Services provides TCM cover at third party Waste Management Facilities. Formally known a Certificate of Technical Competency (COTC), a qualification issued through WAMITAB (CIWM) and now known as the WAMITAB (CIWM) Operator Competency Scheme all qualified Technically Competent Managers must hold a Level 4 qualification under these schemes relevant to the waste facility being managed.
In addition a Technically Competent Manager (TCM) at a waste facility must possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure the facility operates in accordance with environmental regulations and permits. They are responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing risks, and staying updated on relevant laws and regulations.
Key Responsibilities of a Technically Competent Manager
- Ensuring Compliance: TCMs ensure the waste facility operates within the guidelines of its environmental permit and relevant legislation.
- Day-to-Day Management: They support the management of daily operations, ensuring efficient and compliant processes.
- Risk Management: TCMs assess and manage environmental and safety risks associated with waste management activities.
- Technical Expertise: They have a strong understanding of waste management processes, equipment, and related technical aspects.
- Staying Updated: TCMs keep abreast of changes in environmental regulations, safety standards, and waste management techniques.
- Intervention and Change: They have the authority to intervene in operations and implement necessary changes to ensure compliance and safety.
Importance of TCMs
- Environmental Protection: TCMs play a vital role in protecting human health and the environment by ensuring proper waste management practices.
- Regulatory Compliance: They help waste facilities meet the requirements of their environmental permits and avoid penalties or legal issues.
- Operational Efficiency: By overseeing operations and managing risks, TCMs contribute to the efficient and effective running of the facility.
TCM Minimum Attendance
The minimum Technically Competent Manager (TCM) attendance at a waste facility is generally 20% of the site’s operational hours however this can vary due to a number of factors. This attendance requirement is a key part of ensuring compliance with sites environmental permit.
- Standard Rules Permits: For sites operating under standard rules permits, the TCM attendance is typically set at 20% of the site’s operating hours.
- Bespoke Permits: For sites with bespoke permits, the attendance requirement is determined by the Operational Risk Appraisal (OPRA) guidance, which assesses the environmental risk associated with the site.
- Factors Affecting Attendance: The specific attendance requirement can vary based on factors like permit type, site location, the operator’s compliance rating, and agreements with environmental regulators.
- Importance of TCM: The TCM’s role is crucial in ensuring the site operates in line with its environmental permit and waste management license. They provide technical advice, record attendance, and address any identified issues.
- Unexpected Absences: If a TCM is unexpectedly unable to be on-site, an interim TCM should be appointed to cover the attendance requirement.
Consultancy Advisory Services
As regulations evolve at an accelerating pace, businesses across industries need targeted expertise to stay compliant and seize new opportunities with confidence.
Backed by in-depth knowledge of UK and EU regulatory frameworks, our team supports clients in managing all aspects of environmental compliance at an operational level. We specialise in engaging with regulatory authorities such as the Environment Agency and tackling complex compliance challenges efficiently.
Trusted by both regional and national enterprises, we deliver hands-on, compliance solutions that support day-to-day operations while aligning with broader business goals.
Our regulatory compliance professionals collaborate across diverse industries, ensuring clients remain up to date with current regulations. We also leverage cross-sector insights to deliver added value and innovative solutions.
We provide tailored regulatory updates to match each client’s unique industry and business needs, simplifying the process of adapting to legislative changes.
From guidance on specific obligations to full-spectrum compliance strategies, our environmental regulation services are designed to keep businesses fully aligned with evolving environmental laws.
Fire Prevention Plans (FPP)
These plans are a legal requirement for all Waste Management Site that deal with flammable waste and are required to be submitted at the Environmental Permit Application stage.
A fire prevention plan (FPP) for waste management is a comprehensive document that outlines procedures and measures to minimise the risk of fires at waste facilities. It identifies potential fire hazards, outlines preventative actions, and details procedures for fire response and containment. The plan is crucial for obtaining and maintaining an environmental permit for waste management operations.
Key Components of a Fire Prevention Plan
- Risk Assessment: The plan must identify all potential fire hazards on-site, including sources of ignition, flammable materials, and areas prone to fire.
- Preventative Measures: It details specific actions to minimize fire risks, such as proper waste segregation, storage procedures, and control of ignition sources (e.g., electrical equipment, smoking areas).
- Fire Detection and Response: The plan outlines procedures for detecting fires, including the use of fire alarms and other detection systems. It also details how to respond to a fire, including evacuation procedures, the location of fire extinguishers, and communication protocols.
- Containment and Extinguishment: The plan should include measures to contain a fire within a specific area, such as fire breaks and containment systems for fire water. It should also aim to extinguish a fire within a reasonable timeframe, often specified as four hours.
- Training: The plan should outline training requirements for staff on fire safety procedures, including how to use fire extinguishers and implement the evacuation plan.
- Documentation and Review: The plan must be properly documented, regularly reviewed, and updated to reflect any changes in operations or identified risks.
Objectives of a Fire Prevention Plan
- Minimizing the Likelihood of Fire: The primary goal is to prevent fires from starting in the first place by implementing robust preventative measures.
- Rapid Extinguishment: If a fire does occur, the plan aims to ensure it can be extinguished quickly, minimizing damage and potential harm.
- Containment: The plan also seeks to prevent the fire from spreading both within the site and to neighbouring properties.
Legal Requirements
In the UK, a fire prevention plan is a mandatory requirement for waste management facilities that store or treat combustible waste.
The Environment Agency approves and enforces the implementation and maintenance of these plans as part of the environmental permitting compliance activities.
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