JOHN SANDFORD BECOMES A CERTIFIED WATER TECHNOLOGIST
We are delighted to announce that SMS Environmental Director, John Sandford CMIOSH, has successfully become the first UK based recipient of the Association of Water Technologies Certification (CWT). The AWT has recognised John’s level of experience and professionalism within the Water Treatment industry and has granted him Certified Water Technologist (CWT) status.
The CWT certification is awarded to individuals with demonstrable up-to-date knowledge on water treatment technology who embody the “highest standard in the industry”, reflecting the AWT principles of honesty, integrity and a commitment to conservation of resources. To make this possible, John has passed the AWT examination covering all areas of water treatment technology, showcasing his proficiency in regulatory compliances and safety and also had to receive references from industry recognised water treatment specialists regarding his proficiency in the field.
Association of Water Technologies commented explaining that:
The AWT recognises the achievements of water treatment professionals who earn the CWT designation and applauds their accomplishment and their success.
The Association of Water Technologies is an international organisation representing companies that specialise in applying water treatments for industrial and commercial cooling and heating systems. Representing the majority of the US Water Treatment market, there are over 500 companies and organisations supported by the association; As a result, SMS Environmental has long recognised the value in affiliation with AWT.
John had this to say about receiving the certification:
In the absence of a formal alternative in the UK for evaluating the competence of individual experienced water treatment providers, I looked abroad and found that the AWT certification scheme evaluated and accurately recognised the competency of Water Treatment professionals to the highest of standards. I also saw the CWT courses as a great opportunity to test my knowledge of some of the best practices in the industry.
He continued:
It’s been a pleasure working with the AWT in the US, I see the CWT certification as the current benchmark of what an assurance scheme should look like and would love to see it recognised further within the UK. Alternatively, I would support any move to establish a similar scheme within the UK by one of the industry's associations or societies, the evidence is that it is much needed.
John has always been a passionate advocate for improved measures of competency within the water treatment industry which is why SMS became the first full-service provider to gain the UKAS Accreditation for Legionella Risk Assessments and why, following his example, SMS Environmental has committed to supporting more employees to attain the CWT status. We are now in the process of formalising it as a stage of professional development for field-based employees and contract managers. Fitting well with our vision for our industry to strive for excellence, quality and integrity and achieve positive outcomes for all facilities users through the transformative application of competence.