Qualifications and Skills
An ECoW is responsible for ensuring site contractors and management are equipped with the correct knowledge to protect environmental features on site. This can often require decisions to be made quickly, sometimes in highly pressured circumstances.
Only certain individuals have the correct combination of qualifications, skills and confidence to undertake such a role. An experienced ECoW will hold Chartered status with an appropriate Institute and have a good working understanding of the construction process. Less experienced ECoWs will have a relevant degree (either environmental or construction related) and experience of construction sites. In some instances the most appropriate person to fulfill the ECoW role may not hold formal qualifications but will have substantial experience. The skills needed by an ECoW include:
An ECoW is responsible for ensuring site contractors and management are equipped with the correct knowledge to protect environmental features on site. This can often require decisions to be made quickly, sometimes in highly pressured circumstances.
Only certain individuals have the correct combination of qualifications, skills and confidence to undertake such a role. An experienced ECoW will hold Chartered status with an appropriate Institute and have a good working understanding of the construction process. Less experienced ECoWs will have a relevant degree (either environmental or construction related) and experience of construction sites. In some instances the most appropriate person to fulfill the ECoW role may not hold formal qualifications but will have substantial experience. The skills needed by an ECoW include:
- Knowledge and experience of typical construction practices;
- Assertiveness and strong communication skills, in particular an ability to relay environmental information at both a technical and layman level;
- Robust understanding of relevant scientific principles; and
- A sound understanding of environmental legislation (and licensing) and how it applies to construction/development sites.