Key information

  1. Status: Approved for delivery
  2. Reference: ST0061
  3. Version: 1.1
  4. Level: 3
  5. Typical duration to gateway: 48 months
  6. Typical EPA period: 3 months
  7. Maximum funding: £18000
  8. Route: Construction and the built environment
  9. Date updated: 01/08/2024
  10. Approved for delivery: 12 September 2017
  11. Lars code: 193
  12. EQA provider: Ofqual
  13. Example progression routes:
  14. Review: this apprenticeship will be reviewed in accordance with our change request policy.
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Apprenticeship summary

Overview of the role

Maintenance and repair of building services, such as: ventilation, heating, and water supply.

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in industrial and commercial buildings, for example office blocks, factories, schools, and hospitals. Building Services Engineering makes buildings work. It is a specialist branch of engineering within the construction sector. Service and maintenance engineers play a key role in planning and completing a range of maintenance work. They also monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment through building and energy management systems.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to plan and compete a variety of maintenance activities involving industrial and commercial building services engineering systems. They carry out scheduled preventative maintenance as well as any required remedial or corrective repairs. These engineers use building and energy management systems to monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with clients, suppliers, site managers and other trades on site.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for health and safety appropriate to their scope of work. They make sure systems keep working according to the specifications they were designed with. Service and maintenance engineers will fault find, fault diagnose, repair, and maintain systems, components, and equipment. They work within occupied and unoccupied buildings and facilities on their own, proficiently and without supervision. They must communicate with team members and site managers. In addition to taking environmental regulations into account, they will assume ownership of the quality of their job.

A building services and maintenance engineers must stay updated on the latest industry standards and regulations to ensure compliance and keep the systems in line with current guidelines. Overall, their expertise and attention to detail contribute to the smooth operation and longevity of the systems they maintain. Maintenance engineers also play a crucial role in the overall efficiency and performance of the systems they oversee. 

 Service and maintenance engineers are also responsible for conducting regular inspections and preventive maintenance to identify potential issues before they become major problems. Additionally, they may be required to keep detailed records of their work, including any repairs or replacements made, to ensure accurate documentation and compliance with regulations. 

 

Typical job titles include:

Building services maintenance engineer Maintenance engineer Service and maintenance engineer

Duties

  • Duty 1 Comply with health, safety, and environmental regulations; building regulations; industry guidance notes and relevant codes of practice.
  • Duty 2 Plan and organise to undertake service and maintenance activities in ways which use resources to complete work, with consideration for cost, quality, time, safety, security and environmental impact.
  • Duty 3 Prepare work areas to undertake service and maintenance activities.
  • Duty 4 Carry out planned or reactive maintenance activities on systems.
  • Duty 5 Provide the client or contract supervisor with recommendations for repairs, replacements, and potential improvements; and the likely impact, cost and timescales for any work required that is additional to the specification or contract.
  • Duty 6 Finish service and maintenance activities by completing and submitting the necessary reports following contract related processes and procedures.
  • Duty 7 Restore work area to a safe and clean condition on completion of service and maintenance activities.
  • Duty 8 Communicate and liaise with own project team, and those in other teams, such as clients or specialist contractors.
  • Duty 9 Prepare and complete required work documentation.
  • Duty 10 Plan and project manage servicing and maintenance activities.
  • Duty 11 Develop and maintain competency in using a range of practical and workshop activities.

Apprenticeship summary

ST0061, building services engineering service and maintenance engineer level 3

This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.

What is an end-point assessment and why it happens

An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.

Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.

The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 48 months. The EPA period is typically 3 months.

The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction


EPA gateway

The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.

The gateway requirements for your EPA are:

  • achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the project's title and scope must be agreed with the EPAO and a project summary submitted
  • for the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, you must submit a portfolio of evidence

Assessment methods

Multiple-choice test

You will complete a multiple-choice test. It will be closed book, meaning you will not have access to any books or reference materials.

The test will have 50 multiple-choice questions. You will have 75 minutes to complete it.



Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 8 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You need to compile a portfolio of evidence before the EPA gateway. You can use it to help answer the questions.


Observation with questions

You will be observed by an independent assessor completing your work. It will last at least 3 hours. They will ask you at least 3 questions.


Who to contact for help or more information

You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.

You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.

You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.Reasonable adjustments

If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.

Print occupational standard

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in industrial and commercial buildings, for example office blocks, factories, schools, and hospitals. Building Services Engineering makes buildings work. It is a specialist branch of engineering within the construction sector. Service and maintenance engineers play a key role in planning and completing a range of maintenance work. They also monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment through building and energy management systems.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to plan and compete a variety of maintenance activities involving industrial and commercial building services engineering systems. They carry out scheduled preventative maintenance as well as any required remedial or corrective repairs. These engineers use building and energy management systems to monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with clients, suppliers, site managers and other trades on site.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for health and safety appropriate to their scope of work. They make sure systems keep working according to the specifications they were designed with. Service and maintenance engineers will fault find, fault diagnose, repair, and maintain systems, components, and equipment. They work within occupied and unoccupied buildings and facilities on their own, proficiently and without supervision. They must communicate with team members and site managers. In addition to taking environmental regulations into account, they will assume ownership of the quality of their job.

A building services and maintenance engineers must stay updated on the latest industry standards and regulations to ensure compliance and keep the systems in line with current guidelines. Overall, their expertise and attention to detail contribute to the smooth operation and longevity of the systems they maintain. Maintenance engineers also play a crucial role in the overall efficiency and performance of the systems they oversee. 

 Service and maintenance engineers are also responsible for conducting regular inspections and preventive maintenance to identify potential issues before they become major problems. Additionally, they may be required to keep detailed records of their work, including any repairs or replacements made, to ensure accurate documentation and compliance with regulations. 

 

Typical job titles include:

Building services maintenance engineer Maintenance engineer Service and maintenance engineer

Occupation duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 1 Comply with health, safety, and environmental regulations; building regulations; industry guidance notes and relevant codes of practice.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K12 K16 K25 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33 K34 K43

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S8 S11 S15 S16 S21 S30 S31

B1 B3

Duty 2 Plan and organise to undertake service and maintenance activities in ways which use resources to complete work, with consideration for cost, quality, time, safety, security and environmental impact.

K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K17 K18 K19 K23 K24 K25 K27 K29 K30 K31 K32 K33 K34 K35 K36 K39 K43

S2 S4 S5 S6 S7 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S16 S21 S26

B3 B5

Duty 3 Prepare work areas to undertake service and maintenance activities.

K7 K9 K10 K14 K15 K16 K17 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K35 K37 K39 K43

S1 S3 S7 S14 S15 S19 S20 S21 S22

B1

Duty 4 Carry out planned or reactive maintenance activities on systems.

K9 K10 K12 K14 K19 K20 K21 K22 K25 K26 K27 K35 K36 K37 K39

S4 S7 S8 S10 S15 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23

Duty 5 Provide the client or contract supervisor with recommendations for repairs, replacements, and potential improvements; and the likely impact, cost and timescales for any work required that is additional to the specification or contract.

K20 K21 K22 K27 K34 K38 K40 K41 K43 K45

S13 S17 S18 S19 S20 S22 S23 S24 S25 S26 S28 S30 S33

Duty 6 Finish service and maintenance activities by completing and submitting the necessary reports following contract related processes and procedures.

K10 K26 K27 K28 K37 K39 K42 K45

S7 S10 S14 S15 S17 S18 S23 S25 S33

Duty 7 Restore work area to a safe and clean condition on completion of service and maintenance activities.

K17 K28

S10 S15 S25

Duty 8 Communicate and liaise with own project team, and those in other teams, such as clients or specialist contractors.

K2 K7 K8 K9 K17 K20 K21 K22 K26 K28 K34 K38 K40 K41 K42 K43 K44

S3 S4 S6 S13 S16 S19 S20 S22 S24 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31

B2 B5 B6

Duty 9 Prepare and complete required work documentation.

K38 K39 K40 K42

S4 S5 S16 S27 S28

Duty 10 Plan and project manage servicing and maintenance activities.

K2 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K14 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K34 K35 K36 K39 K42 K44

S2 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S10 S13 S16 S21 S22 S25 S26 S27 S30

B2 B6

Duty 11 Develop and maintain competency in using a range of practical and workshop activities.

K9 K10 K11 K13 K14 K16 K17 K19 K25 K34 K35 K36 K37 K42

S6 S12 S13 S14 S17 S18 S21 S23 S32

B2 B4 B5 B6

KSBs

Knowledge

K1: Regulations and legislation that impact the sector and its safe operation. Back to Duty

K2: Company policy and procedure that impact the sector. Back to Duty

K3: Individual and organisational consequences for non-compliance to regulations and legislation. Back to Duty

K4: Principles of risk assessments, for example hierarchy of risk. Back to Duty

K5: Methods of hazard identification and risk management. Back to Duty

K6: Control measure application and method statements. Back to Duty

K7: industry related procedures, processes, standards, specification, and codes of practice. Back to Duty

K8: Principles of project management. Back to Duty

K9: Principles of planning work programmes. Back to Duty

K10: Scientific principles underpinning building services engineering including measurement, force and pressure, heat and power, materials, and electricity. Back to Duty

K11: Sustainability principles and techniques. Back to Duty

K12: Environmental and sustainability regulations, legislation, standards, and guidance. Back to Duty

K13: Waste management techniques including recycling, reuse, and safe disposal of waste. Back to Duty

K14: Principles and techniques of efficient use of resources, for example, materials, time, and cost. Back to Duty

K15: Preparation requirements for starting work including setting out. Back to Duty

K16: Principles of selection, use, securing and storing of hand and power tools, equipment, and components. Back to Duty

K17: Factors that delay the completion of planned work. Back to Duty

K18: Reasons for, and techniques in, amending or replanning of work. Back to Duty

K19: Design, layout, and operating principles of the installation of systems. Back to Duty

K20: Principles and practices of pre-commissioning building service engineering systems. Back to Duty

K21: Principles, practices, and standard operating procedures of testing and commissioning building service engineering systems. Back to Duty

K22: Principles, practices, and standard operating procedures of decommissioning building service engineering systems. Back to Duty

K23: Materials, equipment, technologies, and processes used to complete planned maintenance activities on building services engineering systems. Back to Duty

K24: Materials, equipment, technologies, and processes used to complete reactive maintenance activities on building services engineering systems. Back to Duty

K25: Principles of isolating building services engineering systems. Back to Duty

K26: Principles and practices of identification, diagnosis and resolution of faults in building service engineering systems. Back to Duty

K27: Methodology for replacement of components. Back to Duty

K28: Handover techniques and processes. Back to Duty

K29: Principles of safe working with gas in systems and components. Back to Duty

K30: Principles of safe working with electricity in systems and components. Back to Duty

K31: Principles of safe working with oil in building service engineering systems and components. Back to Duty

K32: Principles of safe working with hot and cold water in systems and components. Back to Duty

K33: Principles of safe working with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and components. Back to Duty

K34: Limits of competence on safe working with gas, electricity, HVAC, water, and oil. Back to Duty

K35: Principles of mechanical sustainable energy systems for example, carbon reduction, solar, rainwater and heat recovery. Back to Duty

K36: Principles and procedures for using information technology and digital systems to monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment. Back to Duty

K37: Principles and techniques of building management systems set points, time schedules and temperatures. Back to Duty

K38: Types of documentation that a service and maintenance engineer may encounter and use. Back to Duty

K39: Methods of interpreting and extracting relevant information such as manufacturer's instructions, drawings, plans, specifications, or previous reports. Back to Duty

K40: Written communication techniques. Back to Duty

K41: Spoken communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. Back to Duty

K42: Principles of providing internal feedback to improve the quality of business products and services. Back to Duty

K43: Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. Back to Duty

K44: When to escalate tasks and issues, and to whom. Back to Duty

K45: Principles and practices of repairing components. Back to Duty

Skills

S1: Apply safe working practices and comply with safe working methods, including highlighting control method application and safe systems of work. Back to Duty

S2: Comply with current company policies and procedures. Back to Duty

S3: Undertake dynamic risk assessment to identify and manage a safe working environment. Back to Duty

S4: Produce a risk assessment. Back to Duty

S5: Produce a method statement. Back to Duty

S6: Plan work activities. Back to Duty

S7: Apply sustainable principles and techniques. Back to Duty

S8: Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Back to Duty

S9: Follow organisational and site procedures for waste management across the site. Back to Duty

S10: Plan, organise, and carry out tasks in a way that utilises resources, for example cost, quality, safety, security, and environmental impact. Back to Duty

S11: Plan, organise, prepare, and secure area of work for setting out and work activities. Back to Duty

S12: Minimise delays to planned work. Back to Duty

S13: Amend and replan work activities. Back to Duty

S14: Prepare and maintain work areas to ensure safe access and egress for self and others. Back to Duty

S15: Select, use, secure and store hand and power tools, equipment, and components. Back to Duty

S16: Interpret information from sources such as manufacturer's instructions, drawings, plans, specifications, or previous reports. Back to Duty

S17: Carry out testing and commissioning of a building services engineering system. Back to Duty

S18: Carry out decommission of a building services engineering system. Back to Duty

S19: Undertake planned maintenance activities to building services engineering systems. Back to Duty

S20: Undertake reactive maintenance activities to building services engineering systems. Back to Duty

S21: Isolate building service engineering systems. Back to Duty

S22: Identify and diagnose faults and outline solutions for resolution. Back to Duty

S23: Replace components. Back to Duty

S24: Communicate options in writing for repairs, replacements or improvements including the impact of cost, and timescales in writing. Back to Duty

S25: Handover completed maintenance activities. Back to Duty

S26: Use information technology and digital systems to monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment. Back to Duty

S27: Record or enter information - paper based or electronic. Back to Duty

S28: Provide internal feedback. Back to Duty

S29: Communicate verbally with internal and external stakeholders using sector specific terminology. Back to Duty

S30: Follow equity, diversity, and inclusion principles and policy. Back to Duty

S31: Refer problems outside of own responsibility or authority to the relevant person. Back to Duty

S32: Identify, carry out and record industry related continuing professional development (CPD) activities. Back to Duty

S33: Repair components. Back to Duty

Behaviours

B1: Promotes safe working. Back to Duty

B2: Supports equity, diversity, and inclusivity workplace culture. Back to Duty

B3: Takes personal responsibility for sustainable outcomes. Back to Duty

B4: Takes ownership of work, performance, and training, committing continued professional development (CPD). Back to Duty

B5: Adapt to new and changing situations with stakeholders. Back to Duty

B6: Collaborate with customers, other trades and the whole team. Back to Duty

Qualifications

English and Maths

Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.

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End-point assessment plan

V1.1

Introduction and overview

This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the building services engineering service and maintenance engineer apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.

Building services engineering service and maintenance engineer apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.

A full-time building services engineering service and maintenance engineer apprentice typically spends 48 months on-programme. The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.

The EPA should be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 3 months.

The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.

An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must work with the training provider to select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship providers and assessment register (APAR).

This EPA has 3 assessment methods.

The grades available for each assessment method are below.

Assessment method 1 - multiple-choice test:

  • fail
  • pass

Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Assessment method 3 - observation with questions:

  • fail
  • pass

The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

EPA summary table

On-programme - typically 48 months

The apprentice must:

  • complete training to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) outlined in this apprenticeship’s standard
  • complete training towards English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules

  • compile a portfolio of evidence

End-point assessment gateway

The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the apprenticeship.

The apprentice must:

  • confirm they are ready to take the EPA
  • have achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules

For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.

Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.

End-point assessment - typically 3 months

The grades available for each assessment method are below

Multiple-choice test:

  • fail

  • pass

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • fail

  • pass

  • distinction

Observation with questions:

  • fail

  • pass

Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:

    • fail
    • pass
    • distinction

Duration of end-point assessment period

The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 3 months.

The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and start the EPA as quickly as possible.

EPA gateway

The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.

The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.

They must:

  • confirm they are ready to take the EPA
  • have achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules

  • submit a portfolio of evidence for the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Portfolio of evidence requirements:

The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by the interview. It will typically contain 10 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.

Evidence sources may include:

  • workplace documentation and records
  • workplace policies and procedures
  • witness statements
  • annotated photographs
  • video clips with a maximum total duration 10 minutes; the apprentice must be in view and identifiable

This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.

The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance, for example, witness statements, rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.

The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.

Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.

Order of assessment methods

The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.

The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.

Multiple-choice test

Overview

In the multiple-choice test, the apprentice answers questions in a controlled and invigilated environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

  • it allows for the efficient testing of knowledge where there is a right or wrong answer.
  • it allows for flexibility in terms of when, where, and how is taken.
  • it allows larger volumes of apprentices to be assessed at one time.

Delivery


The multiple-choice test must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

The test can be computer or paper based.

The test will consist of 50 multiple-choice questions.

Multiple-choice questions must have four options, including one correct answer.

The apprentice must be given at least 2 weeks’ notice of the date and time of the test.

Test administration

The apprentice must have 75 minutes to complete the test.

The test is closed book which means that the apprentice cannot refer to reference books or materials whilst taking the test.

The test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the EPAO. The EPAO must have an invigilation policy setting out how the test must be conducted. It must state the ratio of apprentices to invigilators for the setting and allow the test to take place in a secure way.

The EPAO must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example, with 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities.

The EPAO is responsible for the security of the test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The EPAO must ensure that their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the test.

Marking

The test must be marked by an independent assessor or marker employed by the EPAO. They must follow a marking scheme produced by the EPAO. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.

A correct answer gets 1 mark.

Any incorrect or missing answers get zero marks.

The EPAO is responsible for overseeing the marking of the test.

Assessment location

The apprentice must take the test in a suitably controlled and invigilated environment that is a quiet room, free from distractions and influence. The EPAO must check the venue is suitable.

The test could take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO

should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.    

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.  

The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the test:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • test specification
    • sample test and mark schemes
    • live tests and mark schemes
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Overview

In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

  • it assesses KSBs holistically and objectively
  • it allows for the assessment of KSBs that do not occur on a predictable or regular basis
  • it allows for assessment of responses where there are a range of potential answers
  • it can be conducted remotely, potentially reducing cost

Delivery

The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.

The purpose is to assess the apprentice's competence against the following themes:

  • health and safety, regulations, and legislation
  • environment and sustainability
  • planning and pre-commissioning
  • reactive maintenance and fault finding
  • decommissioning
  • technology
  • communication
  • limitations and expectations
  • collaboration and teamwork
  • equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI)
  • continued professional development (CPD)

The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the interview.

The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.

The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.

The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.

The interview must last for 60 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.

The independent assessor must ask at least 8 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.

The independent assessor must make the grading decision.

The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:

  • the apprentice’s answers to questions
  • the KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
  • the grade achieved 

Assessment location

The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.

The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.

The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.

The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.

Observation with questions

Overview

In the observation with questions, an independent assessor observes the apprentice in their workplace and asks questions. The apprentice completes their day-to-day duties under normal working conditions. Simulation is not allowed. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

  • this is an observation of normal work activities rather than set tasks
  • it can assess KSBs holistically and objectively
  • it should give employers assurance about an apprentice's competence as it takes place in a real work setting

Delivery

The observation with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

An independent assessor must conduct and assess the observation with questions.

The independent assessor must only observe one apprentice at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.

The EPAO must give the apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the observation with questions.

The observation must take 3 hours.

The independent assessor can increase the time of the observation with questions by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.

The observation with questions cannot be split, except for comfort breaks or to allow the apprentice to move from one location to another. Such breaks will not count towards the total observed time.

The EPAO must manage invigilation of the apprentice during the assessment, to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations.

The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the observation with questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.

The independent assessor should observe the following during the observation:

  • interpretation of information
  • dynamic risk assessment
  • select, use, secure and store tools, equipment, and components
  • plan work activities and prepare work area
  • undertaking a building services engineering system maintenance task including the replacement of a component or components
  • commissioning and testing a building service engineering system
  • handover activities

These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

The independent assessor must ask questions. Questioning can occur both during and after the observation.

The purpose of the questions is:

  • to seek clarification where required
  • to assess the level of competence against the grading descriptors

The time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time. The independent assessor must ask at least 3 questions. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessor should ask questions during natural stops between tasks and after completion of work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.

The independent assessor must ask questions about KSBs that were not observed to gather assessment evidence. These questions are in addition to the above set number of questions for the observation with questions and should be kept to a minimum.

The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must assess the observation and responses to questions holistically when deciding the grade.

The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:

  • the KSBs observed
  • the apprentice’s answers to questions
  • the KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
  • the grade achieved

Assessment location

The observation with questions must take place in the apprentice’s normal place of work for example, their employer’s premises or a customer’s premises. Equipment and resources needed for the observation must be provided by the employer and be in good and safe working condition.

Questioning that occurs after the observation should take place in a suitable environment, for example a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.  

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the observation with questions:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.

Grading

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
Health and safety, regulations, and legislation
K2 K3 K4 K6 S2 S4 S5

Explains how they comply with company policies and procedures to ensure safe operation in their field of work. (K2, S2)

Explains the individual and organisational consequences for non-compliance to regulations and legislation. (K3)

Describes how they produce risk assessment in accordance with risk assessment principles to meet the needs of a piece of work. (K4, S4)

Describes how they produce method statements in accordance with the application of control measures to meet the needs of a piece of work. (K6, S5)

None.

Environment and sustainability
K11 K12 S7 S8 B3

Explains how they take personal responsibility for sustainable outcomes, acting in accordance with sustainability principles and techniques, to meet the needs of the workplace and demonstrate environmental good practice. (K11, S7, B3)

Describes how they follow procedures to comply with environmental and sustainability regulations standards, and guidelines.  (K12, S8)

Supports the development of environmental and sustainability practice in the workplace for example, through promoting good practice to others, identifying improvements to practices. (K11, S7)

 

Planning and pre-commissioning
K17 K18 K20 S12 S13

Explains how they minimise the impact of delays on planned work to meet the needs of the client and workplace. (K17, S12)

Describes how they amend and replan work activities in changing circumstances and how this meets the needs of the client and workplace. (K18, S13)

Explains the principles and practices of pre-commission a building service engineering system to meet the needs of the maintenance task. (K20)

Explains the importance of minimising delays to planned work on the business and customer. (K17, S12)

Justifies their decisions when amending and replanning work activities in changing circumstances to meet the needs of the client and workplace. (K18, S13)

Reactive maintenance and fault finding
K24 K26 K45 S20 S22 S33

Describes how they identify and diagnose faults, and outlines solutions for resolution in line with manufacturer’s guidance and standard operating procedures to meet the needs of the task. (K26, S22)

Describes how they undertake reactive maintenance activities to a building services engineering system, using materials, equipment, technologies, and processes in line with employers or manufacturer's instructions and standard operating procedures. (K24, S20)

Explains how they repair components in line with manufacturer's instructions and standard operating procedures to meet the needs of the task. (K45, S33)

 

Justifies the resolutions they have outlined, upon finding and diagnosing a fault, and how these meet the needs of the client and workplace. (K26, S22)

Explains the importance of undertaking reactive maintenance activities to a building services engineering system in line with employers or manufacturer's instructions and standard operating procedures. (K24, S20)

Decommissioning
K22 S18

Describes how they complete the decommissioning of a building services engineering system in line with employers or manufacturer's instructions and standard operating procedures. (K22, S18)

Explains the importance of decommissioning a building services engineering system in line with employers or manufacturer's instructions and standard operating procedures. (K22, S18)

Technology
K36 S26

Describes how they use information technology and digital systems in line with organisation procedures to monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment to meet business needs. (K36, S26)

None.

Communication
K40 K41 S24 S29 B5

Explains how they communicate options in writing, for repairs, replacements, or improvements, including the impact on costs and timescales to meet the needs of the stakeholders. (K40, S24)

Describes how they adapt to new and changing situations and communicate verbally with stakeholders, using sector specific terminology to meet the needs of the audience. (K41, S29, B5)

 

 

 

Explains the importance to the business and stakeholders of using sector specific terminology and meeting the needs of the audience when communicating verbally and in writing. (K40, K41, S24, S29)

Limitations and escalation
K34 K44 S31

Describes how they refer problems outside of their own responsibility, limit of competence or authority to the relevant person, to ensure safe working practice. (K34, K44, S31)

 

Explains the importance of working within their own levels of responsibility and authority and reporting problems outside of this. (K34, K44, S31)

 

 

Collaboration and teamwork
K42 S28 B6

Explains how they collaborate with customers, other trades and the whole team and provide internal feedback to improve the quality of business products and services. (K42, S28, B6)

None.

Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI)
K43 S30 B2

Explains how they contribute to equity, diversity, and inclusivity in their own workplace by following their organisations principles and policies. (K43, S30 B2).

None.

Continuing professional development (CPD)
S32 B4

Explains how they identify, carry out and record industry related continuing professional development (CPD) activities to meet business needs and commit to their own personal development. (S32, B4)

None.

Observation with questions

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
Interpretation of information
K38 K39 S16 S27

Reads and interprets information required to complete the activity. (K38, K39, S16)

Records or enters paper-based or electronic information for work tasks in line with procedures. (S27)

Working safely
K5 K16 S1 S3 S14 S15 B1

Undertakes a dynamic risk assessment to identify and manage the working environment to meet the needs of the maintenance activity. (K5, S3)

Selects, uses, secures, and stores hand tools, power tools, components, and equipment in line with operating instructions or manufacturers’ guidelines. (K16, S15)

Promotes and applies safe working methods and practices including highlighting control method application and safe systems of work. (S1, B1)

Prepares and maintains work areas to ensure safe access and egress for self and others in line with company policies. (S14)

 

Working sustainably
K13 K14 S9 S10

Plans, organises, and carries out tasks in a way that utilises resources sustainably, following organisational and site procedures for waste management. (K13, K14 S9, S10)

Isolation
K25 S21

Isolates building services engineering systems in line with standard operating procedures and manufacturer's guidance. (K25, S21)

Planning and undertaking maintenance activities
K9 K15 K21 K23 K27 S6 S11 S17 S19 S23

Plans work using planning, prioritising, and time management techniques. (K9, S6)

Plans, organises, and prepares the work area for setting out and work activities ensuring safety and security in line with company policy and procedures. (K15, S11)

 

Undertakes planned maintenance activities to a building services engineering system, using materials, equipment, technologies, and processes in line with employers or manufacturer's instructions and standard operating procedures. (K23, S19)

Replaces components in line with task requirements. (K27, S23)

Completes testing and commissioning of a building services engineering system in line with employers or manufacturer's instructions and standard operating procedures. (K21, S17)

Handover activities
K28 S25

Conducts handover activities in line with organisational procedures. (K28, S25)

Multiple-choice test

Grade Minimum marks required Maximum marks required
Fail 0 34
Pass 35 50

Overall EPA grading

Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:

  • fail

  • pass

  • distinction

An independent assessor must individually grade the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence and observation with questions in line with this EPA plan.

The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.

If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.

To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall distinction the apprentice must achieve a pass in the multiple-choice test, a distinction in the interview and a pass in the observation with questions.

Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.

Multiple-choice test Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence Observation with questions Overall Grading
Fail Fail Fail Fail
Any grade Fail Any grade Fail
Fail Any grade Any grade Fail
Any grade Any grade Fail Fail
Pass Pass Pass Pass
Pass Distinction Pass Distinction

Re-sits and re-takes

If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does. The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.

The employer and the EPAO should agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 2 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 3 months of the EPA outcome notification.

Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.

Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.

The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of pass for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.

Roles and responsibilities

Roles Responsibilities

Apprentice

As a minimum, the apprentice should:

  • complete on-programme training to meet the KSBs as outlined in the apprenticeship standard for a minimum of 12 months
  • complete the required amount of off-the-job training specified by the apprenticeship funding rules and as arranged by the employer and training provider
  • understand the purpose and importance of EPA
  • prepare for and undertake the EPA including meeting all gateway requirements

Employer

As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:

  • select the training provider
  • work with the training provider to select the EPAO
  • work with the training provider, where applicable, to support the apprentice in the workplace and to provide the opportunities for the apprentice to develop the KSBs
  • arrange and support off-the-job training to be undertaken by the apprentice 
  • decide when the apprentice is working at or above the apprenticeship standard and is ready for EPA
  • ensure the apprentice is prepared for the EPA
  • ensure that all supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan
  • confirm arrangements with the EPAO for the EPA in a timely manner, including who, when, where
  • provide the EPAO with access to any employer-specific documentation as required for example, company policies
  • ensure that the EPA is scheduled with the EPAO for a date and time which allows appropriate opportunity for the apprentice to meet the KSBs
  • ensure the apprentice is given sufficient time away from regular duties to prepare for, and complete the EPA
  • ensure that any required supervision during the EPA period, as stated within this EPA plan, is in place
  • ensure the apprentice has access to the resources used to fulfil their role and carry out the EPA for workplace based assessments
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA
  • pass the certificate to the apprentice upon receipt

EPAO

As a minimum, the EPAO must:

  • conform to the requirements of this EPA plan and deliver its requirements in a timely manner
  • conform to the requirements of the apprenticeship provider and assessment register
  • conform to the requirements of the external quality assurance provider (EQAP)
  • understand the apprenticeship including the occupational standard and EPA plan
  • make all necessary contractual arrangements including agreeing the price of the EPA
  • develop and produce assessment materials including specifications and marking materials, for example mark schemes, practice materials, training material
  • maintain and apply a policy for the declaration and management of conflict of interests and independence. This must ensure, as a minimum, there is no personal benefit or detriment for those delivering the EPA or from the result of an assessment. It must cover:
    • apprentices
    • employers
    • independent assessors
    • any other roles involved in delivery or grading of the EPA
  • have quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable and consistent assessment and maintain records of internal quality assurance (IQA) activity for external quality assurance (EQA) purposes
  • appoint independent, competent, and suitably qualified assessors in line with the requirements of this EPA plan
  • appoint administrators, invigilators and any other roles where required to facilitate the EPA
  • deliver induction, initial and on-going training for all their independent assessors and any other roles involved in the delivery or grading of the EPA as specified within this EPA plan. This should include how to record the rationale and evidence for grading decisions where required
  • conduct standardisation with all their independent assessors before allowing them to deliver an EPA, when the EPA is updated, and at least once a year
  • conduct moderation across all of their independent assessors decisions once EPAs have started according to a sampling plan, with associated risk rating of independent assessors
  • monitor the performance of all their independent assessors and provide additional training where necessary
  • develop and provide assessment recording documentation to ensure a clear and auditable process is in place for providing assessment decisions and feedback to all relevant stakeholders
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the apprenticeship
  • arrange for the EPA to take place in a timely manner, in consultation with the employer
  • provide information, advice, and guidance documentation to enable apprentices, employers and training providers to prepare for the EPA
  • confirm the gateway requirements have been met before they start the EPA for an apprentice
  • arrange a suitable venue for the EPA
  • maintain the security of the EPA including, but not limited to, verifying the identity of the apprentice, invigilation and security of materials
  • where the EPA plan permits assessment away from the workplace, ensure that the apprentice has access to the required resources and liaise with the employer to agree this if necessary
  • confirm the overall grade awarded
  • maintain and apply a policy for conducting appeals

Independent assessor

As a minimum, an independent assessor must:

  • be independent, with no conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider, specifically, they must not receive a personal benefit or detriment from the result of the assessment
  • have, maintain and be able to evidence up-to-date knowledge and expertise of the occupation
  • have the competence to assess the EPA and meet the requirements of the IQA section of this EPA plan
  • understand the apprenticeship’s occupational standard and EPA plan
  • attend induction and standardisation events before they conduct an EPA for the first time, when the EPA is updated, and at least once a year
  • use language in the delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the apprenticeship
  • work with other personnel, where used, in the preparation and delivery of assessment methods
  • conduct the EPA to assess the apprentice against the KSBs and in line with the EPA plan
  • make final grading decisions in line with this EPA plan
  • record and report assessment outcome decisions
  • comply with the IQA requirements of the EPAO
  • comply with external quality assurance (EQA) requirements

Training provider

As a minimum, the training provider must:

  • conform to the requirements of the apprenticeship provider and assessment register
  • ensure procedures are in place to mitigate against any conflict of interest
  • work with the employer and support the apprentice during the off-the-job training to provide the opportunities to develop the KSBs as outlined in the occupational standard
  • deliver training to the apprentice as outlined in their apprenticeship agreement
  • monitor the apprentice’s progress during any training provider led on-programme learning
  • ensure the apprentice is prepared for the EPA
  • work with the employer to select the EPAO
  • advise the employer, upon request, on the apprentice’s readiness for EPA
  • ensure that all supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA

Marker

As a minimum, the marker must:

  • attend induction training as directed by the EPAO
  • have no direct connection or conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider
  • mark test answers in line with the EPAO’s mark scheme and procedures

Invigilator

As a minimum, the invigilator must:

  • attend induction training as directed by the EPAO
  • not invigilate an assessment, solely, if they have delivered the assessed content to the apprentice
  • invigilate and supervise the apprentice during tests and in breaks during assessment methods to prevent malpractice in line with the EPAO’s invigilation procedures

Reasonable adjustments

The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

  • how an apprentice qualifies for reasonable adjustment
  • what reasonable adjustments may be made

Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.

Internal quality assurance

Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.

EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.

They must also appoint independent assessors who:

  • have recent relevant experience of the occupation or sector to at least occupational level 3 gained in the last 2 years or significant experience of the occupation or sector

Value for money

Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:

  • completing applicable assessment methods online, for example computer-based assessment
  • utilising digital remote platforms to conduct applicable assessment methods
  • assessing multiple apprentices simultaneously where the assessment method permits this
  • using the employer’s premises
  • conducting assessment methods on the same day

Professional recognition

This apprenticeship is not aligned to professional recognition.

KSB mapping table

Knowledge Assessment methods
K1

Regulations and legislation that impact the sector and its safe operation.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K2

Company policy and procedure that impact the sector.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K3

Individual and organisational consequences for non-compliance to regulations and legislation.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K4

Principles of risk assessments, for example hierarchy of risk.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K5

Methods of hazard identification and risk management.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K6

Control measure application and method statements.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K7

Industry related procedures, processes, standards, specification, and codes of practice.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K8

Principles of project management.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K9

Principles of planning work programmes.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K10

Scientific principles underpinning building services engineering including measurement, force and pressure, heat and power, materials, and electricity.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K11

Sustainability principles and techniques.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K12

Environmental and sustainability regulations, legislation, standards, and guidance.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K13

Waste management techniques including recycling, reuse, and safe disposal of waste.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K14

Principles and techniques of efficient use of resources, for example, materials, time, and cost.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K15

Preparation requirements for starting work including setting out.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K16

Principles of selection, use, securing and storing of hand and power tools, equipment, and components.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K17

Factors that delay the completion of planned work.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K18

Reasons for, and techniques in, amending or replanning of work.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K19

Design, layout, and operating principles of the installation of systems.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K20

Principles and practices of pre-commissioning building service engineering systems.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K21

Principles, practices, and standard operating procedures of testing and commissioning building service engineering systems.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K22

Principles, practices, and standard operating procedures of decommissioning building service engineering systems.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K23

Materials, equipment, technologies, and processes used to complete planned maintenance activities on building services engineering systems.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K24

Materials, equipment, technologies, and processes used to complete reactive maintenance activities on building services engineering systems.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K25

Principles of isolating building services engineering systems.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K26

Principles and practices of identification, diagnosis and resolution of faults in building service engineering systems.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K27

Methodology for replacement of components.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K28

Handover techniques and processes.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K29

Principles of safe working with gas in systems and components.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K30

Principles of safe working with electricity in systems and components.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K31

Principles of safe working with oil in building service engineering systems and components.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K32

Principles of safe working with hot and cold water in systems and components.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K33

Principles of safe working with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and components.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K34

Limits of competence on safe working with gas, electricity, HVAC, water, and oil.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K35

Principles of mechanical sustainable energy systems for example, carbon reduction, solar, rainwater and heat recovery.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K36

Principles and procedures for using information technology and digital systems to monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K37

Principles and techniques of building management systems set points, time schedules and temperatures.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K38

Types of documentation that a service and maintenance engineer may encounter and use.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K39

Methods of interpreting and extracting relevant information such as manufacturer's instructions, drawings, plans, specifications, or previous reports.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
K40

Written communication techniques.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K41

Spoken communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K42

Principles of providing internal feedback to improve the quality of business products and services.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K43

Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K44

When to escalate tasks and issues, and to whom.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K45

Principles and practices of repairing components.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Skill Assessment methods
S1

Apply safe working practices and comply with safe working methods, including highlighting control method application and safe systems of work.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S2

Comply with current company policies and procedures.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S3

Undertake dynamic risk assessment to identify and manage a safe working environment.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S4

Produce a risk assessment.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S5

Produce a method statement.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S6

Plan work activities.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S7

Apply sustainable principles and techniques.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S8

Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S9

Follow organisational and site procedures for waste management across the site.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S10

Plan, organise, and carry out tasks in a way that utilises resources, for example cost, quality, safety, security, and environmental impact.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S11

Plan, organise, prepare, and secure area of work for setting out and work activities.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S12

Minimise delays to planned work.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S13

Amend and replan work activities.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S14

Prepare and maintain work areas to ensure safe access and egress for self and others.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S15

Select, use, secure and store hand and power tools, equipment, and components.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S16

Interpret information from sources such as manufacturer's instructions, drawings, plans, specifications, or previous reports.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S17

Carry out testing and commissioning of a building services engineering system.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S18

Carry out decommission of a building services engineering system.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S19

Undertake planned maintenance activities to building services engineering systems.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S20

Undertake reactive maintenance activities to building services engineering systems.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S21

Isolate building service engineering systems.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S22

Identify and diagnose faults and outline solutions for resolution.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S23

Replace components.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S24

Communicate options in writing for repairs, replacements or improvements including the impact of cost, and timescales in writing.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S25

Handover completed maintenance activities.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S26

Use information technology and digital systems to monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S27

Record or enter information - paper based or electronic.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
S28

Provide internal feedback.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S29

Communicate verbally with internal and external stakeholders using sector specific terminology.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S30

Follow equity, diversity, and inclusion principles and policy.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S31

Refer problems outside of own responsibility or authority to the relevant person.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S32

Identify, carry out and record industry related continuing professional development (CPD) activities.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S33

Repair components.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Behaviour Assessment methods
B1

Promotes safe working.

Back to Grading
Observation with questions
B2

Supports equity, diversity, and inclusivity workplace culture.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B3

Takes personal responsibility for sustainable outcomes.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B4

Takes ownership of work, performance, and training, committing continued professional development (CPD).

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Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B5

Adapt to new and changing situations with stakeholders.

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Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B6

Collaborate with customers, other trades and the whole team.

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Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Mapping of KSBs to grade themes

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Health and safety, regulations, and legislation
K2 K3 K4 K6
S2 S4 S5

Company policy and procedure that impact the sector. (K2)

Individual and organisational consequences for non-compliance to regulations and legislation. (K3)

Principles of risk assessments, for example hierarchy of risk. (K4)

Control measure application and method statements. (K6)

Comply with current company policies and procedures. (S2)

Produce a risk assessment. (S4)

Produce a method statement. (S5)

None

Environment and sustainability
K11 K12
S7 S8
B3

Sustainability principles and techniques. (K11)

Environmental and sustainability regulations, legislation, standards, and guidance. (K12)

Apply sustainable principles and techniques. (S7)

Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. (S8)

Takes personal responsibility for sustainable outcomes. (B3)

Planning and pre-commissioning
K17 K18 K20
S12 S13

Factors that delay the completion of planned work. (K17)

Reasons for, and techniques in, amending or replanning of work. (K18)

Principles and practices of pre-commissioning building service engineering systems. (K20)

Minimise delays to planned work. (S12)

Amend and replan work activities. (S13)

None

Reactive maintenance and fault finding
K24 K26 K45
S20 S22 S33

Materials, equipment, technologies, and processes used to complete reactive maintenance activities on building services engineering systems. (K24)

Principles and practices of identification, diagnosis and resolution of faults in building service engineering systems. (K26)

Principles and practices of repairing components. (K45)

Undertake reactive maintenance activities to building services engineering systems. (S20)

Identify and diagnose faults and outline solutions for resolution. (S22)

Repair components. (S33)

None

Decommissioning
K22
S18

Principles, practices, and standard operating procedures of decommissioning building service engineering systems. (K22)

Carry out decommission of a building services engineering system. (S18)

None

Technology
K36
S26

Principles and procedures for using information technology and digital systems to monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment. (K36)

Use information technology and digital systems to monitor and manage the operation of plant and equipment. (S26)

None

Communication
K40 K41
S24 S29
B5

Written communication techniques. (K40)

Spoken communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. (K41)

Communicate options in writing for repairs, replacements or improvements including the impact of cost, and timescales in writing. (S24)

Communicate verbally with internal and external stakeholders using sector specific terminology. (S29)

Adapt to new and changing situations with stakeholders. (B5)

Limitations and escalation
K34 K44
S31

Limits of competence on safe working with gas, electricity, HVAC, water, and oil. (K34)

When to escalate tasks and issues, and to whom. (K44)

Refer problems outside of own responsibility or authority to the relevant person. (S31)

None

Collaboration and teamwork
K42
S28
B6

Principles of providing internal feedback to improve the quality of business products and services. (K42)

Provide internal feedback. (S28)

Collaborate with customers, other trades and the whole team. (B6)

Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI)
K43
S30
B2

Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. (K43)

Follow equity, diversity, and inclusion principles and policy. (S30)

Supports equity, diversity, and inclusivity workplace culture. (B2)

Continuing professional development (CPD)

S32
B4

None

Identify, carry out and record industry related continuing professional development (CPD) activities. (S32)

Takes ownership of work, performance, and training, committing continued professional development (CPD). (B4)

Observation with questions

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Interpretation of information
K38 K39
S16 S27

Types of documentation that a service and maintenance engineer may encounter and use. (K38)

Methods of interpreting and extracting relevant information such as manufacturer's instructions, drawings, plans, specifications, or previous reports. (K39)

Interpret information from sources such as manufacturer's instructions, drawings, plans, specifications, or previous reports. (S16)

Record or enter information - paper based or electronic. (S27)

None

Working safely
K5 K16
S1 S3 S14 S15
B1

Methods of hazard identification and risk management. (K5)

Principles of selection, use, securing and storing of hand and power tools, equipment, and components. (K16)

Apply safe working practices and comply with safe working methods, including highlighting control method application and safe systems of work. (S1)

Undertake dynamic risk assessment to identify and manage a safe working environment. (S3)

Prepare and maintain work areas to ensure safe access and egress for self and others. (S14)

Select, use, secure and store hand and power tools, equipment, and components. (S15)

Promotes safe working. (B1)

Working sustainably
K13 K14
S9 S10

Waste management techniques including recycling, reuse, and safe disposal of waste. (K13)

Principles and techniques of efficient use of resources, for example, materials, time, and cost. (K14)

Follow organisational and site procedures for waste management across the site. (S9)

Plan, organise, and carry out tasks in a way that utilises resources, for example cost, quality, safety, security, and environmental impact. (S10)

None

Isolation
K25
S21

Principles of isolating building services engineering systems. (K25)

Isolate building service engineering systems. (S21)

None

Planning and undertaking maintenance activities
K9 K15 K21 K23 K27
S6 S11 S17 S19 S23

Principles of planning work programmes. (K9)

Preparation requirements for starting work including setting out. (K15)

Principles, practices, and standard operating procedures of testing and commissioning building service engineering systems. (K21)

Materials, equipment, technologies, and processes used to complete planned maintenance activities on building services engineering systems. (K23)

Methodology for replacement of components. (K27)

Plan work activities. (S6)

Plan, organise, prepare, and secure area of work for setting out and work activities. (S11)

Carry out testing and commissioning of a building services engineering system. (S17)

Undertake planned maintenance activities to building services engineering systems. (S19)

Replace components. (S23)

None

Handover activities
K28
S25

Handover techniques and processes. (K28)

Handover completed maintenance activities. (S25)

None

Employers involved in creating the standard: BESA, Choice Training Ltd, FP Hurley, HE Simm, Laing O'Rourke, Leeds College of Building, NG Bailey, The City of Liverpool College

Version log

Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date
1.1 Occupational standard, end-point assessment and funding band revised. 01/08/2024 Not set Not set
1.0 Approved for delivery. 12/09/2017 31/07/2024 Not set

Crown copyright © 2024. You may re-use this information (not including logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence. Visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence

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