Business from technology

Asbestos and hazardous materials experts can now demonstrate their competence with VTT personnel certification

6 June 2012

VTT personnel certification is expanding to encompass asbestos and hazardous materials experts (AHM experts). An AHM expert is qualified to perform asbestos and hazardous materials surveys, draw up demolition and dust control plans during construction, and monitor the carrying out of those plans.

With VTT personnel certification, an AHM expert proves that his/her competence is up to date. The person commissioning the renovation work or an employer in the construction field, for example, can also confirm that the certificate holder is competent and will follow best construction practices.

The need to certify AHM experts arose from the industry's own initiative. “Common rules were needed for the industry to guarantee the quality and safety of operations,” states VTT Expert Services Oy Lead Assessor Lina Markelin-Rantala.

The possibility to obtain personnel certification has been well received in the industry. RATEKO organised the first AHM expert training events in March and April. The next training will take place in October. The first exams and demonstration assignments are currently being finished.

AHM experts are experienced
Certified AHM experts are required to have solid experience in the field and knowledge of the characteristics of asbestos and other hazardous materials. A certified AHM expert has participated in preparatory training, and passed a written exam and demonstration assignment. In addition, regular reporting on worksites and participation in supplementary training is required of certified AHM experts.

Experience requirements for AHM expert personnel certification

• The minimum requirement is a construction, building technology or health technician diploma, and a minimum of two years of work experience in the construction industry.
  
• Alternatively, five years of work experience in professional asbestos and other hazardous materials surveys.
  
• Additionally, knowledge of old structures, the construction materials used in Finland, and the characteristics of asbestos and other hazardous materials.
  

VTT personnel certification in widespread use
VTT personnel certification helps guarantee the competence of professionals in the field. It creates a commonly accepted operating method, and ensures the competence of personnel and the quality and safety of operations.

VTT personnel certificates are granted for professionals in the following fields: AHM expert services, wet-room waterproofing installation, supervision of wet-room work, sheet-metal roofing installation, thermal imaging of buildings, expertise on healthy buildings, measuring of structure moisture, measuring the tightness of buildings and fire seal installation. There are currently approximately 6000 valid certificates. A certified professional can prove his or her competence with a VTT personnel certification card.