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Andrij Velhosh had pleaded guilty to 48 offences of fraud by false representation and one offence of possession of a false passport, after impersonating candidates in the HSE tests - taking the test for them.
Sentencing, Recorder Niall Quinn QC told Velhosh that these were serious offences and not victimless crimes. The HSE test is designed to increase safety in what is still a dangerous industry and the matter was so serious that only an immediate custodial sentence could be considered.
Velhosh was told that he had put the people for whom he obtained bogus qualifications at risk, as well as undermining the integrity of the HSE test that is designed to improve safety and confidence in the building industry.
Individuals who paid Mr Velhosh to take the test on their behalf may yet face criminal charges as well.
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