Posted: 20 March, 2020. Written by Molly Rogers
*UPDATE 31/03/2020: In line with Government advice, on-site inspections are no longer taking place. We are currently in discussion with the Certification Bodies and Environmental Regulators regarding our views on maintaining end-of-waste and temporary certification in expectancy of further announcements. We will make all operators aware of any changes to the Scheme position.
We wish everybody well and keep safe!
In consultation with the appointed Certification Bodies and in light of the current situation regarding COVID-19, we have agreed the following:
Site inspections will continue to take place, subject to a risk assessment by the Certification Body and Operator following changes in government advice or company policy. If site inspections are unable to take place, the current CCS position on initial and renewal audits are as follows:
Initial audits
If site inspections cannot take place, audits will be carried out remotely. Operators will be required to provide all necessary paperwork to the auditor in advance and use real-time video conferencing technologies, in order for the auditor to carry out visual assessments remotely. A spot inspection at the site will be carried out when it is safe and possible to do so.
Renewal audits
If site inspections cannot take place, audits will be carried out remotely. Operators will be required to provide all necessary paperwork to the auditor in advance and use real-time video conferencing technologies, in order for the auditor to carry out visual assessments remotely. If the Certification Body identifies any major non-conformances or has any major concerns, a spot inspection at the site will be carried out when it is safe and possible to do so.
Temporary certificates/extensions will not be granted. However, if there is an urgent need for either, these will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
We assure to keep all operators well informed of any changes to the scheme’s position at this time. If you have any further questions, please contact us at info@realschemes.org.uk.