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Frequently asked questions
Joining, costs, examinations, CPD and the CSCS card. If your question isn't answered here, the Institute's team will answer it directly.
Published by the Institute · reviewed
How do I join the Institute of Demolition Engineers?
The Institute has grades of membership for new entrants, longer-term members, students, technicians and affiliates to the industry. Create an account, work through the online application, and — for the corporate grades — attend a professional interview. Applications are considered at four Membership Committee meetings each year.
How much does it cost to join?
There is a non-refundable joining fee of £300. The annual subscription then depends on your grade: £300 for Affiliate, Entrant and Technician; £275 for Associate; £250 for Full Member and Fellow; and £30 for a fully retired Full Member or Fellow.
What qualifications do I need to be a demolition engineer?
There is no single mandatory qualification, which is precisely why the Institute exists. Competence is assessed through the Institute's examinations and a professional interview, and maintained through continuing professional development. The Institute also co-developed a Foundation Degree in Demolition Management — a world first — and offers bursaries onto it.
What is the CSCS PQP card and how do I get one?
The Professionally Qualified Person card is the CSCS card for competency-assessed members of professional bodies such as the IDE, CIOB and IStructE. Full Members and Fellows whose CPD is fully up to date are eligible, and the card is free. You need at least six core and six non-core CPD hours annually across the last three years, attested by the National Secretary.
How much CPD does the Institute require?
12 hours of CPD annually, of which six must be core hours — that is, specific to IDE educational activities such as seminars, regional CPD evenings and Institute lectures.
What do the IDE examinations involve?
Two parts, taken on the same day. Part 1 is a 45-minute multiple choice paper covering legislation, codes of practice and health and safety. Part 2 runs three hours and requires three case-study answers from a choice of six. The pass mark is 70% for both parts, and there is no limit on attempts within two years of joining. A preparation day is mandatory for first-time candidates.
Where and when does the Institute meet?
Across the year there are five Council of Management meetings, four Membership Committee meetings, four Event Committee meetings, at least one meeting of the Board of IDE Trustees, and the Annual General Meeting, held once a year; its date and venue are in the events calendar. Applications for membership should be received four weeks before a Membership Committee meeting to be considered at it.
How do I sign in to the members' area?
With a link, not a password. Go to members.ide.org.uk, enter the email address the Institute holds for you, and a sign-in link arrives from info@ide.org.uk. Open it and you are in; you then stay signed in on that device until you sign out. Members who prefer a password can set one in their account and use it instead. If no link arrives within a few minutes, check your junk folder, then contact the office to confirm the address on your record.
How do I check whether someone is a member?
Search the members' register to confirm a person's grade and that their membership is current. The register returns grade and standing only — no contact details, addresses or employment information are published.
What happens if I don't pay my subscription?
Failure to pay subscription fees later than two months after the deadline given will automatically result in termination of membership. If you are having difficulty, contact the Institute before the deadline rather than after it.
Do you have a refund policy?
Joining fees are not refunded unless an application is inappropriate. Subscription fees and examination fees are non-refundable. Events are put on at favourable rates so refunds are not offered except in exceptional circumstances. Merchandise can be refunded within 14 days for unopened, packaged goods in original condition, where they were not gifts or tokens of appreciation.
Do you sell merchandise?
Yes, to members only. The Institute sells high quality merchandise at its seminars — currently an A5 notebook and pen set (£7.50) and the IDE tie (£15). If you want something specific, email the Institute.
Can I sponsor the Institute?
Yes. Sponsorship packages support the Institute's education projects or its annual events, and give sponsoring organisations exposure to a wider audience across the demolition industry.
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