Posted: 13 October, 2020. Written by Molly Rogers
In consultation with the Environmental Regulators and the Certification Bodies in September, and in light of the current situation regarding COVID-19, we have agreed the following concerning annual/renewal audits going forwards.
We have agreed that both remote inspections and on-site/physical inspections will continue from this month.
To inform our position, we took into consideration several variables, including the increase in COVID-19 threat level, the rise in cases of local lockdowns, and recent Government advice for people to work from home. We are assured that the remote auditing regime remains a robust temporary approach, as no issues have since been brought to our attention.
REAL currently have an agreement in place with all Environmental Regulators where there is a temporary amendment to the BCS Scheme rules which allows for remote inspections and on-site/physical inspections, to take place. The position was reviewed in July and extended in August. On-site inspections take place where possible, following a COVID risk assessment; where the auditor and operator can comply with government guidance including social distancing, hygiene practises, and PPE. Remote inspections take place where the auditor or site cannot comply with government guidance, there are local or national lockdowns in place, or there are issues with staff affecting their ability to carry out a physical audit.
We have agreed a second extension to this agreement with NIEA, SEPA, and the EA until 31st January 2021, and with NRW until 31st December 2020. Therefore, this position applies in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England until 31st January 2021, and in Wales until 31st December 2020.
This position will be reviewed again in December 2020 and January 2021, respectively, and all operators will be informed of any changes. If you would like any further information or have any questions regarding audits during this time, email us at info@realschemes.org.uk and we will be happy to help.