The document, due to be released in December, advises providers to be "courteous and respectful" to inspectors, and also to "respect that inspectors will on occasion need to observe practice and talk to staff and users without the presence of a manager or registered person." Inspectors must ensure that "everyone they encounter during inspections or regulatory visits is treated fairly and with respect."

Ofsted said that a consultation with inspectors and providers before publication had received a positive response.