This will be of interest: http://www.hse.gov.uk/pr...3/rnn-w-phillipjones.htm There's a link therein to the relevant professional body - best placed to confirm requisite standards?

Thanks both. I found time to do a little research. Certification to BS EN 1443 apparently, problem I'm finding is most sweeps are carried out by one man bands who have never heard the words hazardous waste - consignment note - carcinogenic and more importantly 30 days payment (if they're lucky) I'm waiting to hear back from someone whio is a menber of the guild of master chimney sweeps, at least ot sounds compliant!!!!!!

Yes, many sweeps are 'one man bands' but that doesn't mean that they don't know what they're doing. The one I use is extremely diligent and provides all of the necessary certification, reports etc. HETAS is recognised registration scheme, not dissimilar to OFTEC and gas safe, that requires members to have completed a recognised training course and be a member of a trade body, such as, but not limited to the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps. They have a search function http://www.hetas.co.uk/find-chimney-sweep/