Chelmsford-based Essex Glass and Windscreens has become the first approved independent assessment centre to offer Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) in autoglazing for the independent windscreen industry.

The business is owned and run by Leon and Maria Charlton, who have worked within the independent windscreen market for over 15 years.

Now Essex Glass and Windscreens has opened its doors to independent autoglaziers who are seeking industry recognition of their technical competence.

Similar to other ATA routes, technicians are required to pass a series of practical assessments and an on-line test to achieve accreditation.

Maria Charlton said: "Today’s windscreens, with solar reflective glass, integrated rain and light sensors, built-in heated filaments and even head up display (HUD) systems have become known as ‘smart glass.’

"Therefore autoglazing technicians must have an increasingly broad knowledge of how complex windscreens work and interact with the rest of the vehicle.”