HETAS urges sweeps to brush up on skills
The Heating Equipment Testing and Approvals Scheme (HETAS) is is urging chimney sweeps to brush up their knowledge and practical skills with the H009 Service and Maintenance Course ahead of the heating season. HETAS is the UK’s only specialist organisation approving biomass and solid fuel heating appliances, fuels and services.
In the past year, over 4,000 chimney fires occurred in England. HETAS advises that chimneys are swept at least once a year – just before the start of the heating season and ideally, a second sweep after the peak of the main heating season. As well as removing soot and tar deposits, chimney sweeps can also identify any obstructions or defects.
HETAS has developed the H009 course, working in collaboration with recognised chimney sweep associations, including The National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS), The Association of Professional Independent Chimney Sweeps (APICS) and The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps (GoMCS).
The two-day course is available at training centres across the UK and Ireland. It focuses on practical activities and assesses participants on service and maintenance procedures to sustain high standards of sweeping.
Upon successful completion of the course, chimney sweeps can register with HETAS on servicing and maintenance business registration scheme. Consumers can be connected to HETAS approved chimney sweeps via the search tool on the HETAS website – the HETAS logo assures consumers they can be confident in the expertise, skills and service provided by their chimney sweep.
Bruce Allen, CEO of HETAS comments: “As consumers look to have their chimney swept ahead of the heating season, chimney sweeps should look to take this opportunity to refresh their skills and ensure they are HETAS approved. This organisation committed to helping consumers get the most out their appliance by providing recommended maintenance procedures, as well as day-to-day tips for usage.”
