Welcome to Amtivo in Ireland – formerly Certification Europe, EQA and BQAI

Solvent and Decorative Paints

Approved Assessor Inspections

Book & Pay Now      Book & Pay Later

If your business uses organic solvents – for example in dry cleaning, vehicle refinishing, or industrial processes – you may be legally required to undergo an inspection by an Approved Assessor. Failure to comply can result in enforcement action by your local authority.  

Amtivo has been appointed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Ireland to provide these inspections and help you demonstrate compliance with Irish and EU environmental law. Following a successful inspection, your business will receive an Approved Assessor report confirming compliance. This report is then submitted by you to the Local Authority, who will issue your Certificate of Compliance.

What Is an Approved Assessor Inspection? 

Under Irish and European legislation, operators that use organic solvents in their operations must show they are compliant with rules designed to reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and protect human health and the environment. 

These inspections are mandated by: 

  • S.I. No. 564 of 2012: European Union (Paints, Varnishes, Vehicle Refinishing Products and Activities) Regulations (“Deco-Paint Regulations”) 
  • S.I. No. 356 of 2024: European Union (Paints, Varnishes, Vehicle Refinishing Products and Activities) (Amendment) Regulations 2024
  • S.I. No. 565 of 2012: European Union (Installations and Activities Using Organic Solvents) Regulations (“Solvents Regulations”) 
  • S.I. No. 357 of 2024: European Union (Installations and Activities Using Organic Solvents) (Amendment) Regulations 2024

During an inspection, an Approved Assessor will review your premises, records, products and practices to assess compliance with the regulatory requirements. 

aa inspections

Who Needs an Inspection? 

You’ll need an Approved Assessor inspection if your business uses organic solvents and isn’t directly licensed by the EPA. 

This commonly applies to:

  • Dry cleaning businesses
  • Vehicle refinishing and body repair shops
  • Industrial operations that use solvents as part of their processes

Inspections are required when you start operating and then at regular intervals, usually up to every three years, depending on your compliance history. If you’re not sure whether your business needs an inspection, our team is happy to help you understand what applies and guide you through the process. 

Your Compliance Obligations

To meet the requirements of the Solvent and Deco-Paint Regulations you must:

  • Maintain an up-to-date Solvent Management Plan for solvent use
  • Use compliant products (solvents and paints)
  • Keep accurate records of solvent and paints used on site
  • Keep accurate records of waste removal
  • Engage an Approved Assessor to conduct the inspection
  • Submit the inspection report to your local authority
  • Obtain and display a Certificate of Compliance, valid for up to three years, depending on your compliance history

Following a successful inspection and submission of your approved assessor compliance report, your local authority will issue the legally required Certificate of Compliance.

aa inspections

Book an Inspection

To request an inspection, simply choose from one of the two options below.

Once you have requested to book an inspection, a member of the Amtivo team will contact you to schedule the inspection at a time that suits your business. 

Book & Pay Now      Book & Pay Later

If you have multiple sites requiring inspection or require further information, please contact us directly: 

Phone: 01 2707980 
Email: [email protected] 

Once scheduled, we will provide you with an Operator’s Manual tailored to your sector, detailing: 

  • What to expect during the inspection 
  • Required documentation and records 
  • How to prepare for compliance 

EPA Guidance and Best Practice 

To help you prepare, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published guidance including:

These documents explain what inspectors will look for, and how to prepare your records and processes for assessment. 

Frequently Asked Questions