A new route enables applicants to join the HETAS Approved Chimney Sweep Scheme as a Direct Entrant (DE). This route is available to any experienced sweep with a suitable HETAS qualification such as H003, H005 or H009. To check ongoing sweeping competence, DE registrants will be regularly assessed by HETAS.

As has traditionally been the case, sweeps who are full members of one of the professional chimney sweep associations recognised by HETAS can still register through their affiliated membership. This requires continual membership with the association for the complete HETAS registration period.

Bruce Allen, chief executive of HETAS, explained: “It’s vital that we’re able to support all professional chimney sweeps who can evidence robust demonstrable experience in chimney sweeping and want to get HETAS certified assessment and registration.

“This is why we opened a Direct Route at the end of 2019, but following feedback from the industry and a review in January, we’ve now simplified and clarified the process to make it easier and more cost-effective.

“We firmly believe that opening this second registration route will help to raise standards for the industry through the provision of quality training, continuous learning and development and ongoing assessment.

“We will continue to work with APICS, Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, NACS and Sweep Safe to support their members in becoming HETAS Approved Chimney Sweeps.”