Competent Person Scheme
What is the CPS Scheme?
Competent Person Schemes (CPS) allow certified businesses who are competent in their field, to self-certify certain types of building work as compliant with the requirements of the Building Regulations in England and Wales.
Competent Person Schemes help to tackle the problem of unqualified tradespeople by raising standards in the industry and enabling consumers to identify competent installers. They also allow building control bodies to concentrate their resources on areas of higher risk. These schemes offer benefits to both the building industry and consumers.
A Competent Person must be registered with a scheme that has been approved by MHCLG (Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government). Schemes authorised by the MHCLG.
The Benefits of the CPS Scheme
Certified businesses save time by not having to notify in advance and use a building control body (i.e. a local authority or a private sector approved inspector) to check inspect their work.
Businesses certified on the Registered Competent Person Scheme are able to self-certify their work online. NICEIC will then issue a certificate to the customer and advise the relevant local authority that
work has taken place, reducing the paperwork for you.
The schemes offer a complete solution to multi-disciplinary businesses and specialist businesses, who in a single job may undertake installations covered by several different Building Regulations.
The schemes cover work carried out in domestic and non-domestic premises.
Consumers will benefit from lower prices as building control charges will not be passed on.
Assessments and requirements for CPS Members
We as a CPS registered member business needs to demonstrate it can install the measures it is applying/certified for. It is important that sufficient samples of work which are reflective of work undertaken within your NICEIC certification are available to allow an Assessor access.
Our business must operate robust management systems and processes and have an individual responsible for the business’s certification and all activities relating to Compliance with the Building Regulations (usually a business owner or director).
Have a Health and Safety policy that identifies risks associated with installation(s).
Have a process for identifying and resolving product and process non-conformities.
Maintain records for a minimum of 6 years.
Operate a complaints process.
Have a system for ensuring and recording all equipment is calibrated and maintained.
Ensure all product storage and transportation is conducted safely and in accordance to
manufacturer’s instructions.
Ensure and record all employees and subcontractors competence and training.
Self Certification of Works
Registration with the Registered Competent Person Scheme allows us to Self-certifying our own work in compliance with the Building Regulations.
CPS membership will allow TEST Electrician employees to self-certify that our work complies with the Building Regulations in England and Wales, saving you time and money by removing the need to notify Building Control in advance, or having to pay the Building Control fees normally associated with an electrical installation.
It is a legal requirement that certain work should be notified and CPS membership is the most effective way of complying as well as saving, on average, £241 in Building Control fees for every piece of notifiable work you or your operatives carry out.
It also lets your customers know that we and our employees' work is of a high standard and that regular assessments take place to demonstrate the ongoing competence of TEST Electrician and our operatives.
The NICEIC Electrical certification experts
1st Class Electrical Certification providers in Manchester and the North West, and we are proud to offer a complete range of electrical certification services to all our clients.
As Registered CPS, NICEIC Approved and ECA Accredited our dedicated staff are experienced in delivering a highly professional service to our domestic, commercial & industrial clients in Greater Manchester and throughout the rest of the UK.
All our employees are time served NICEIC Approved Electricians and have completed a full apprenticeship. They also take continuing electrical update courses and regularly attend seminars and toolbox talks to stay up to date with the latest regulations.
Your electrical work is safe, high quality, up to date with best practices and the latest industry trends and regulations. Plus you can be confident in a more efficient and effective process, cost savings, and a trusted partner for future electrical needs.
The Benefits of the Competent Person Scheme
The Benefits of the Competent Person Scheme
If you're a homeowner or business owner planning to undertake electrical work, getting the job done safely and efficiently is essential. This is where the Competent Person Scheme (CPS) comes into play. Accredited by the government, the CPS allows qualified electrical contractors to self-certify their work, saving you time, money, and hassle.
By choosing a CPS-registered electrician, you can enjoy a range of benefits. Firstly, you have the peace of mind that the contractor has undergone rigorous training and assessment, ensuring their competence and expertise. This means they will adhere to the latest safety regulations, minimizing the risk of accidents or faults.
Furthermore, CPS-registered electricians have the authority to issue compliance certificates, eliminating the need for costly third-party inspections. Not only does this save you time, but it also provides validation that the work meets industry standards.
Whether you require electrical installations, repairs, or inspections, opting for a CPS-registered electrician ensures you receive high-quality, reliable service. Don't compromise on safety - choose a competent person for your electrical needs.
Importance of the Competent Person Scheme
When it comes to electrical work, safety should always be the top priority. The Competent Person Scheme plays a crucial role in ensuring that electrical installations, repairs, and inspections are carried out to the highest standards. By choosing a CPS-registered electrician, you can have peace of mind knowing that the contractor has the necessary competence and expertise to handle the job safely and efficiently. This reduces the risk of accidents, faults, and potential damage to your property. In addition to safety, the CPS also provides a level of convenience and cost-effectiveness. Instead of going through the lengthy and sometimes costly process of obtaining building control approval, CPS-registered electricians have the authority to issue compliance certificates. This eliminates the need for third-party inspections, saving both time and money. The compliance certificates also serve as proof that the work meets industry standards, providing validation of the quality and reliability of the electrical work carried out.
Benefits of joining the Competent Person Scheme
1. Expertise and competence: CPS-registered electricians have undergone rigorous training and assessment, ensuring that they possess the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out electrical work to the highest standards. By choosing a CPS-registered electrician, you can be confident that you are hiring a professional who is up to date with the latest safety regulations and practices. 2. Time and cost savings: By using a CPS-registered electrician, you can bypass the need for third-party inspections and building control applications. This not only saves you time but also reduces the associated costs. The compliance certificates issued by CPS-registered electricians serve as proof that the work meets industry standards, eliminating the need for additional inspections or approvals. 3. Peace of mind: The CPS provides reassurance that the electrical work being carried out is being done by a competent professional. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially when it comes to the safety of your home or business premises. CPS-registered electricians are required to adhere to strict safety regulations, minimizing the risk of accidents, faults, or potential damage. 4. Industry recognition: Being part of the CPS demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and high standards. This can be a valuable asset for electricians and electrical businesses, as it sets them apart from competitors who may not be part of the scheme. Being able to self-certify work and issue compliance certificates can be a significant selling point, giving customers confidence in the quality and reliability of the services provided.
How to become a competent person
Becoming a competent person under the CPS involves meeting specific criteria and undergoing a rigorous assessment process. The exact requirements may vary depending on the scheme, but generally, electricians need to demonstrate their competence and knowledge in electrical installation work. This can be achieved through a combination of qualifications, experience, and assessments. To become a competent person, electricians typically need to hold relevant qualifications, such as a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment or an equivalent qualification. They may also need to complete additional training courses to ensure they are up to date with the latest regulations and practices. Once the necessary qualifications and training have been obtained, electricians can apply to join a government-approved CPS scheme. The application process usually involves providing evidence of qualifications, experience, and competence, as well as undergoing an assessment to verify their skills and knowledge. Upon successful completion of the application process, electricians will become registered as competent persons under the CPS. This allows them to self-certify their electrical work and issue compliance certificates, providing reassurance to customers that the work meets industry standards.
Competent Person Scheme vs. Building Control Application
One of the significant advantages of the Competent Person Scheme is the ability for registered electricians to self-certify their work, eliminating the need for building control applications in certain circumstances. While building control applications may still be required for certain types of electrical work, the CPS provides a streamlined alternative for many common electrical installations, repairs, and inspections.
Building control applications involve submitting plans and specifications to the local authority for approval before the work can commence. This process can be time-consuming and may require additional inspections during and after the work is completed. In contrast, the CPS allows registered electricians to carry out the work and issue compliance certificates, providing reassurance that the work meets the necessary safety and quality standards.
By choosing a CPS-registered electrician, homeowners and businesses can save time and money by avoiding the need for building control applications. The compliance certificates issued by CPS-registered electricians serve as proof that the work meets industry standards, providing validation of the quality and reliability of the electrical work carried out.
Common misconceptions about the Competent Person Scheme
Despite its many benefits, there are some common misconceptions about the Competent Person Scheme that may prevent homeowners and businesses from taking full advantage of its advantages. Let's address some of these misconceptions: 1. Misconception: Only large electrical companies can join the CPS. Reality: The CPS is open to both small and large electrical businesses, as long as they meet the necessary criteria and requirements. 2. Misconception: CPS-registered electricians are more expensive. Reality: While the cost of electrical work can vary depending on various factors, such as the complexity of the job and the location, the CPS itself does not significantly impact the cost. The benefits and peace of mind provided by CPS-registered electricians often outweigh any potential differences in price. 3. Misconception: CPS-registered electricians are not as skilled as those who go through the traditional building control process. Reality: CPS-registered electricians must meet specific competence and qualification requirements. They undergo rigorous training and assessment to ensure they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out electrical work to the highest standards.
The role of a competent person in ensuring compliance and safety
A competent person plays a crucial role in ensuring that electrical work is carried out to the highest standards of safety and compliance. By being registered under the Competent Person Scheme, electricians are required to adhere to strict safety regulations and industry best practices. This includes staying up to date with the latest electrical regulations and undergoing regular training and assessments. The role of a competent person extends beyond simply carrying out the work. They are responsible for assessing the risks associated with the electrical work, identifying potential hazards, and implementing appropriate safety measures. This includes ensuring that the correct materials and equipment are used, and that the work is carried out in a safe and efficient manner. By choosing a CPS-registered electrician, homeowners and businesses can have confidence that the work is being carried out by a professional with the necessary competence and expertise to prioritize safety and compliance.
FAQs about the Competent Person Scheme
Q: Is the Competent Person Scheme mandatory? A: No, the Competent Person Scheme is not mandatory. However, it is highly recommended to choose a CPS-registered electrician to ensure that the work is carried out to the highest standards of safety and compliance. Q: Are all electrical works covered by the Competent Person Scheme? A: While the Competent Person Scheme covers a wide range of electrical works, there are some types of work that may still require building control applications or third-party inspections. It is best to consult with a CPS-registered electrician to determine if your specific project falls under the scheme. Q: How can I verify if an electrician is registered under the Competent Person Scheme? A: You can check the official website of the scheme or contact the scheme operator to verify the registration of an electrician. Q: Can I carry out electrical work myself without using a CPS-registered electrician? A: In some cases, homeowners can undertake minor electrical work themselves. However, it is important to ensure that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to do so safely. For more complex or regulated electrical work, it is highly recommended to hire a CPS-registered electrician.
Conclusion: Why the Competent Person Scheme is essential for businesses
The Competent Person Scheme provides numerous benefits for both homeowners and businesses planning to undertake electrical work. By choosing a CPS-registered electrician, you can have confidence that the work will be carried out to the highest standards of safety and compliance. The ability to self-certify work and issue compliance certificates saves time, money, and hassle, while also providing validation of the quality and reliability of the electrical services provided. Whether you require electrical installations, repairs, or inspections, opting for a CPS-registered electrician ensures that you receive high-quality, reliable service. Don't compromise on safety - choose a competent person for your electrical needs.