UK trade body the Property Care Association (PCA) has broadened the scope of its industry-leading structural waterproofing course, introducing new features which align it to the new British Standard BS 8102:2009.
Designed to appeal to anyone involved in the design, planning and installation of any below ground spaces, the intensive three-day course draws on the major elements of BS 8102:2009 - the new Code of Practice for the Protection of Structures Against Water From The Ground.
The code now sets out the requirement for an underlying "Design Philosophy", in conjunction with a risk assessed approach to below ground construction.
In line with this, the PCA's course features a comprehensive look at Waterproofing Design, which covers the design philosophy aspect.
The three different types of Waterproofing Systems considered by the code, namely Type A waterproofing barrier materials applied to the structure, Type B structurally integral watertight construction and Type C drained cavity construction are also included.
Water in The Ground, Concrete Render Technology and the Theory of Structures are also investigated. The course ends with the study of condensation and case studies.
On completion of the course, delegates can then go on to take exams to achieve the Certificated Surveyor in Structural Waterproofing (CSSW) qualification.
Steve Hodgson, general manager of the PCA, which has its own training facility at its headquarters in Huntingdon, said: "Candidates will consider all aspects of underground waterproofing. The course is not simply for those converting cellars, but anyone involved in the design, planning and installation of any below ground spaces.
"The new content has made this in effect a new course for the Association.
"It provides a robust and challenging training programme, offering the latest information and findings on structural waterproofing.
"As limits on space continue to put challenges on construction projects in the UK, many architects, designers and building professionals are looking for advice on creating usable space below ground.
"This course gives the best insight to make informed choices on the subject."
The structural waterproofing course runs twice in 2011, on 12-14 April and 6-8 September.
The course joins a range of training provided by the PCA the UK trade body for the structural waterproofing, wood preservation, damp-proofing, flood remediation and structural repair sectors which is relevant for property and construction professionals and available to members and non-members of the Association.
The PCA also offers tailored in-house training programmes.
To find out more and see the Association's prospectus, log onto the website http://www.property-care.org or telephone 0844 375 4301.
ENDS
Notes To Editors
Noted for its training and technical expertise, The Property Care Association (PCA) represents the UK's structural waterproofing, wood preservation, damp-proofing, flood remediation and structural repair sectors.
It incorporates the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association (BWPDA), which has been in formation for more than 75 years.
The PCA is a member of TrustMark the scheme supported by the Government, to help property owners find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople to make home improvements.
Its contractor members are all carefully vetted before being awarded membership - and are then subject to rigorous auditing procedures once admitted to the Association.
As well as delivering a trusted repair procedure, PCA members are able to carry out specialist surveys as part of the house-buying procedure to identify potential problems as well as a range of other services designed to preserve and protect homes and buildings across the UK.
To find a PCA member log on to http://www.property-care.org and select the Find A Member' service.
Press release issued by Jane Shepherd of Shepherd PR Limited, on behalf of the Property Care Association, telephone 01538 308685, mobile 07985 129315.