The CIWM / WAMITAB Level 4 Operator Competence qualification (often called COTC/OCC; pathways such as HROC, MROC and LROC) is the benchmark qualification for a Technically Competent Manager (TCM) named on an environmental permit.
If you manage permitted activities at waste, recycling, treatment, transfer, or landfill sites, Level 4 is typically required. Once qualified, you’ll also need to maintain status via the Continuing Competence test every two years.
Here are some of the best providers of CIWM / WAMITAB Level 4 training and qualifications in the UK:
Enviroawards Limited
What they offer (Level 4 focus): CIWM (WAMITAB) Level 4 Operator Competence across risk bands and site types (e.g., transfer/treatment, HWRC, clinical, thermal treatment). Blended learning with on-site assessment; online resources via their VLE.
Who it’s for: TCMs responsible for permitted sites who need primary competence; managers preparing for specific pathways (HROC/MROC/LROC).
Coverage: UK-wide delivery and support (including online learning components).
Address: Suite/Office 141, 960 Capability Green, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3PE
Website: enviroawardsltd.co.uk
EWS Training Ltd
What they offer (Level 4 focus): CIWM (WAMITAB) Level 4 Primary Competence, mentoring and Continuing Competence support.
Who it’s for: New and existing TCMs who need assessment and ongoing compliance support.
Coverage: Nationwide provider.
Address: Unit 1b, Little Caring Farm, Caring Lane, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1TH
Website: ews-training.co.uk
HSEC Services (Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance Services Ltd)
What they offer (Level 4 focus): CIWM (WAMITAB) Level 4 Operator Competence with on-site assessment; pathway pages (e.g., non-hazardous transfer/treatment, inert landfill, etc.). Also offers a VRQ training route and Continuing Competence preparation.
Who it’s for: TCMs at ELV, clinical, landfill, MBT, transfer and treatment sites needing primary competence.
Coverage: Delivery nationwide.
Address: No. 6b The Walk, Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 9AJ
Website: hsecservices.co.uk
Certora Training Ltd
What they offer (Level 4 focus): Level 4 Operator Competence (including MROC/LROC options) and support for site managers; training delivered on-site or at centres.
Who it’s for: TCMs managing specific site types who need primary competence; managers seeking structured preparation.
Coverage: Nationwide; centres in Chesterfield, Bromsgrove, Livingston and Mansfield.
Address: 2 Millennium Way, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S41 8ND
Website: certoratraining.co.uk
Albion Environmental Ltd
What they offer (Level 4 focus): CIWM (WAMITAB) Level 4 assessments across multiple activities (with a published list of awards) plus Continuing Competence support.
Who it’s for: TCMs at permitted facilities across the UK (experience with SEPA routes in Scotland).
Coverage: UK-wide training and assessment.
Address: Albion House, 1 Damside, Ayr, Ayrshire, KA8 8ER
Website: albion-environmental.co.uk
Choosing the right Level 4 route
- Match the pathway to your permit activities (eg transfer, treatment, landfill, clinical, HWRC, MBT, thermal treatment).
- Assessment logistics: confirm on-site assessment availability and assessor coverage for your region.
- Support: look for mentoring and Continuing Competence prep to maintain status every two years.
CIWM (WAMITAB) Level 4 – FAQs
What is CIWM (WAMITAB) Level 4?
It is the primary competence qualification for Technically Competent Managers (TCMs) on environmental permits, with pathways aligned to specific site activities and risk levels (HROC/MROC/LROC).
Who needs Level 4?
Managers who are named as TCM on environmental permits for permitted waste and resource management operations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (and equivalent competence recognised in Scotland).
How is Level 4 assessed?
Through evidence-based assessment by an approved centre/assessor, typically including on-site observations, knowledge checks and portfolio evidence aligned to the chosen pathway.
What happens after I qualify?
You must maintain your status by passing the CIWM Continuing Competence test every two years, and keep records aligned to your permit conditions.
How do I choose the correct pathway?
Map your permit(s) and actual activities to the CIWM pathway descriptors (e.g., transfer vs treatment, hazardous vs non-hazardous, landfill type). Your provider can confirm the correct code.
