EWA FAQ’s
How do I know if the BEMS Experienced Worker Assessment is the correct route for me?
Information regarding all of the Building Controls ECS cards is available on the ECS website, please visit https://www.ecscard.org.uk/card-types
How much will it cost and when is payment required?
The cost of the assessment including both exams and EWA card issue is £1,395 +VAT.
An invoice will be issued directly to your employer once your exams are booked.
How long will it normally take?
The assessment can be completed in as little as 3-6 months however the Building Controls EWA card allows a maximum period of 18 months for the assessment to be completed.
Where will I upload my evidence and review feedback provided?
Once enrolled you will be issued with an account and given access to the EWA portal where all evidence can be uploaded once produced.
Who do I contact if I have a question?
You can contact the EWA team via email ewa@grouphorizon.co.uk or telephone 0191 497 7722.
Why do I initially need to apply for a Building Controls Experienced Worker card?
A temporary card is awarded and is valid for 18 months, and is designed to bridge the gap between your old card expiring and successful completion of the BEMS EWA.
This allows you to perform your duties on site whilst giving you sufficient time to collect and submit the remaining evidence to complete the Experienced Worker Assessment and achieve a Building Controls Gold Card.
To be issued with a Building Controls Experienced Worker card, you must first successfully complete the following:
- ECS Health, Safety & Environmental Awareness test (30 minutes in duration) A pass mark of 86% (43 out of 50 questions) is required.
- ECS Battery test (90 minutes in duration) A pass mark of 60% (84 out of 140 questions) is required over the 14 sections.
Why do I need to re-sit my Health, Safety and Environment Awareness test if I currently hold a valid certificate.
We advise that both exams are completed at the same time so that both run concurrently.
How long will my full ECS card be valid?
Once issued, your ECS Gold Card will be valid for a full five years.
Who can be a Technical Witness/Sponsor?
A suitable Technical Witness/Sponsor is someone who has current knowledge of the BEMS industry, a good level of experience and who is occupationally competent.
Ideally the Witness/Sponsor will;
- Have current and credible expertise and occupational competence
- Have a professional role which involves evaluating the everyday practice of others
- Be registered with a professional regulatory body such as the BCIA
- Hold a recognised qualification linked to the sector
If not already, all Expert Witnesses must make themselves familiar with the requirements and competencies of this programme and in most cases, they will work directly alongside the candidate within an operational setting either as their onsite supervisor, direct manager, or experienced co-worker.
Why is it important to disclose any conflicts of interest?
This will eliminate any concerns in relation to the impartiality and/or independence of those linked to the Experienced Worker Assessment.
Can I change my Technical Witness/sponsor while on the programme?
The EWA team must be notified of any changes and each request will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Why do my assessments need to be countersigned by a Technical Witness/Sponsor?
This practice helps authenticate the evidence you have provided.
What will happen if my assessments contain insufficient evidence and are returned?
Your assessments will be marked by a sector expert and feedback provided.
Where applicable, you will be able to update and re-submit your initial submission once all evidence needed has been added.