P403 Air Sampling and Fibre Counting (PCM)

Our P403 course

Analysis of airborne samples plays a key role when managing asbestos in buildings in line with the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2012. The P403 Air Sampling and Fibre Counting (PCM) gives analysts the knowledge and skills required to safely take air samples, prepare fibre counting slides, and accurately analyse these slides under a microscope (using Phase Contrast Microscopy) to identify airborne fibre levels within the area sampled.

Why choose Asbestos Management Services?

Our dedicated team of experts have a wealth of experience conducting air monitoring activities across a large and varied estate. We train our own staff to successfully pass the P403 and P404 qualifications and are experts in all areas of air sampling, fibre counting and clearance monitoring. We have many years of experience working on both large and small removal / remediation projects, associated with public buildings including extensive education stock, where SCOLA and ROSLA system buildings are prevalent.

As a non-profit organisation, we hold quality at the heart of everything we do.

In addition to our highly qualified asbestos training providers, we also have a support team available via phone or email. With Asbestos Management Services, you will always receive the highest levels of training and support.

Who is it for?

The qualification is suitable for anyone who is:

• Required to undertake air sampling and fibre counting as part of their work.
• Considering a career in asbestos analysis.
• Responsible for managing asbestos analysts.

Level of Qualification

This is a level 4 qualification in the BOHS qualifications framework, equivalent to NVQ Level 4 (HNC). 

How is it Delivered?

The P403 course will require at least 18 hours of study time, of which 14 hours will be taught (teaching and practical assessments) and 4 hours will be independent (in your own time).  In addition, there will be 6 hours of examination time.

Content / Learning Outcomes

Overall Aim - To provide you with the theoretical knowledge and practical ability to undertake air sampling in relation to asbestos and fibre counting to quantify respirable fibres using phase contrast microscopy (PCM).

Learning Outcomes - On completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate the correct method for:

• Setting up air sampling equipment and collecting air samples.
• Mounting and clarifying the filter on a microscope slide.
• Setting up the microscope and the required quality checks.
• Analysing samples and providing accurate fibre counts.

Assessment

The assessment is in three parts:

• Written examination - This is an open-book examination comprising of approximately 30 short-answer questions (120 Marks) which covers all the syllabus.
• Practical examination - The practical assessment must be conducted by the Tutor during the relevant part of the course for all candidates. This is to ensure that every candidate can demonstrate their practical ability and use of correct methods.
• Practical assessment - This is an open-book examination which requires candidates to count eight prepared microscope slides that are supplied by BOHS in a time allowance of 4 hours.

To take the P403 certificate, a candidate should have:

• Awareness of the contents of HSG 248 Asbestos: The Analysts’ Guide for sampling, analysis and clearance procedures, and in particular Appendix 1 Fibres in air: sampling and evaluation of fibres by phase contrast microscopy
• Prior experience of analysing fibre count samples and may already be participating in a quality control scheme
• Previous training to cover the core competences outlined within the foundation material detailed within Table A9.1 of HSG 248 Asbestos: The Analysts’ Guide. This may be achieved by in-house learning or through the completion of the P400 foundation module