Underfloor-heating qualification under development

UHMA (the Underfloor Heating Manufacturers’ Association) has launched the UK’s first independent training course in the design and installation of underfloor heating. Brian Sensecall, secretary of the association, explains, ‘The stature of underfloor heating has reached a level when a recognised qualification has become essential. UHMA is working with other industry groups to produce a syllabus and course manual with an emphasis on the practicalities of installation and commissioning — plus that vital design element.’ UHMA is developing a course with British Plumbing Employers’ Council, SummitSkills and Stephenson College at Coalville in Leicestershire. Once the pilot programme is established at Stephenson College, it is planned to extend the course to other suitable training institutions. The course will be accredited by BPEC and open to building-services professionals who already have an NVQ3 or equivalent craft or trade qualification.