TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT Authorising Engineers


A Q&A with the Technical Platform Chairs at the 2024 AE Conference.


Authorising Engineers (AEs) in healthcare have evolved to address the critical need for independent oversight and expertise in managing complex healthcare systems. The concept of AEs originated from the recognition that healthcare facilities require specialised knowledge and skills to ensure the safety, compliance, and efficiency, of their engineering systems. In the complex world of healthcare, maintaining high standards of safety and compliance is paramount. This is where the role of Authorising Engineers (AEs) becomes indispensable. The IHEEM AE process and registration are critical components that ensure the highest levels of expertise and safety are upheld across various disciplines within


healthcare estates. Authorising Engineers are essential in healthcare settings because they provide an independent, authoritative, and impartial perspective on the management and operation of critical systems. They ensure that these systems meet stringent regulatory and safety standards.


A vital resource for


healthcare organisations The Institute of Healthcare Engineering and Estate Management (IHEEM) maintains a register of Authorising Engineers who have met the necessary standards and qualifications. This register serves as a vital resource for healthcare organisations seeking to engage qualified


Harry Evans


Harry Evans BSc (Hons), MRICS, MRSPH, MIHEEM, MCABE, SVHSoc, is an IHEEM- registered Authorising Engineer AE(W) for HDE Authorising Engineers, and Chairman of the NHS Estates Training Advisory Group (TAG). He is a chartered professional with over 40 years’ experience in the design and maintenance of commercial, industrial, and healthcare premises, and throughout his career has gained a wealth of qualifications, expertise, and experience, in a wide range of building and engineering services.


He began his NHS career in 2000 within the Capital Design Department of the


Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust. He subsequently took on the role of Head of Operational Estates for Salford, a position he held for over 12 years. In 2015, he was appointed as an Authorising Engineer (Water) for Equans. Currently, he runs his own private consultancy practice, HDE Authorising Engineers, where he provides AE services to the NHS and other organisations throughout the UK. Harry Evans can act as your Authorising Engineer (Water) – AE(W) for Trusts as described in HTM-00: sections 3.16 – 3.17, providing expert guidance and independent oversight to healthcare organisations. His extensive experience and dedication to maintaining high standards make him a trusted professional in the field.


May 2025 Health Estate Journal 11


professionals. The presence of an AE on this register signifies a commitment to excellence and adherence to industry best practices. Becoming an Authorising Engineer


• Education and training: Candidates must possess relevant qualifications,


• Experience: A significant amount of practical experience in the relevant


discipline is required.


involves a rigorous registration process. Prospective AEs must demonstrate extensive knowledge and experience in their field, undergo a thorough assessment, and adhere to a strict code of conduct. The registration process, and the elements considered, typically include:


and undergo continuous professional development.


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