Proficiency Modules

Introduction

Each Module is a stand-alone modular-based training course of 2-4 days’ duration which is in a specific and individual area of work and covers both theory and practical training in the subject area. The aim of each Module is for individuals to be proficient to carry out the work covered by the Module.   Although these qualifications are normally attained by sitting an examination after having attended a course, they may also be attained by sitting the examination only, as an external candidate. 

Information on the location/dates of taught courses and relevant contact details can be downloaded from the links at the bottom of this page; other details about courses (content, fees etc) should be obtained direct from the course providers.  

Candidates must pass all elements of the Module within 18 months of the date of passing the first element. Failure to do so will invalidate the result of the original element and require a re-sit.

The Module numbers/titles are given below, with links to each syllabus:

P401 Identification of Asbestos in Bulk Samples (PLM)
P402 Buildings Surveys and Bulk Sampling for Asbestos (including Risk Assessment and Risk Management Strategies)
P403 Asbestos Fibre Counting (PCM)
P404 Air Sampling and Clearance Testing of Asbestos
P405 Management of Asbestos in Buildings
P406 Supervision and Management of the Safe Removal and Disposal of Asbestos
P601 Initial Appraisal and Thorough Examination and Testing of Local Exhaust Ventilation Systems
P602 Basic Design Principles of Local Exhaust Ventilation Systems
P701 Management and Assessment of Exposure to Hand-Arm Vibration
P801 Control of Dermal Exposure at Work
P901 Legionella - Management and Control of Building Hot and Cold  Water Services
P902 Legionella - Management and Control of Evaporative Cooling and other High Risk Systems

* Three marks are awarded for a correct answer, one mark deducted for an incorrect answer and no marks awarded or deducted for an abstention.

Results will be issued by BOHS. Results will not be given out on the telephone.

† If candidates have no experience in fibre counting or bulk sample identification then it is advised that they should initially take the relevant course, gain some practical experience in the respective work and then take the examination/assessment at a later date.

Any candidate who has been awarded a certificate for all five proficiency modules (P401-P405) will be deemed to have passed S301 Module ‘Asbestos and Other Fibres’.

Re-Sit Information for Candidates**

If you have failed both elements of the Proficiency Module you must apply to the course provider to re-sit and pay the appropriate fees. It is only necessary for you to re-sit the part that you failed; you need not re-sit the part that you passed.

Failed Written Examination

You must apply to BOHS to re-sit this part of the examination, using the Proficiency Module External Application Form, which can be downloaded from the bottom of this page.

You may request to re-sit this examination at any teaching centre where another Society examination is being held. A list of currently advised dates/venues can be downloaded below.

Please ensure that your completed application form and appropriate fee (contact the Secretariat for current fee details) are with us four weeks before your preferred date. If the teaching centre is able to provide a place for you on your preferred date we will write and advise you, enclosing a map if necessary. If the teaching centre is unable to provide a place on your preferred date, we will contact you by phone in the first instance, if possible, to arrange another mutually convenient date.

Failed Practical Examination

You should apply to the teaching centre where you originally sat this examination.

You will be required by the teaching centre to pay a fee for the practical examination re-sit, part of which, if applicable, will be paid to BOHS on your behalf.

** This information is also relevant to Candidates who have passed one element, but have yet to sit the other.

Course dates / venues

 Why choose BOHS qualifications?

BOHS’ professional qualifications have been well regarded in the occupational hygiene field since their introduction in May 1969, with over 20,000 successful candidates to date.

We work closely with regulators and practitioners to ensure that our syllabi and examinations are up-to-date and relevant. Thirteen of our qualifications are currently listed in HSE guidance as being the industry standard for their particular subject.

The creation of a syllabus and examination process for any subject is complex and involves many stages to ensure the quality and integrity of the system. Our systems have been in existence for many years and are subject to a continuous review process that includes the use of many independent experts, to ensure the maintenance and improvement of all subjects.

Most of BOHS’ qualifications also have a number as well as a sometimes rather long title. For example, P402, Buildings Surveys and Bulk Sampling for Asbestos (including Risk Assessment and Risk Management Strategies), is often just referred to as “P402”. If you are booking to attend a course, you should be aware that some training organisations not associated with BOHS advertise courses which refer to these numbers but do not lead to BOHS quality controlled examinations, so please check with the training organisation concerned before you book.

BOHS is a fully independent professional body which has no affiliations to any particular industry or trade organisation. As a Company Limited by Guarantee and a Registered Charity, any surplus (i.e. profit) made by BOHS is automatically re-invested in the company, not paid to Directors or Shareholders.