AuthorisedGasTester Standard

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Authorised Gas Tester

Levels 1, 2 & 3 Training

OPITO Course Codes

Initial Training: Levels 1, 2 and 3 are 9024, 9225 and 9226 respectively.

Further Training: Levels 1, 2 and 3 are 9227, 9228 and 9229 respectively.

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The contents of this document were developed by an industry work group coordinated by The contents of this document were developed by an industry work group coordinated by OPITO and included:

OPITO and included:

Specialist Training Organisations Specialist Training Organisations OGUK Competence Steering Group OGUK Competence Steering Group Drilling Contractors

Drilling Contractors

Guidance and advice on this standard is available by contacting: Guidance and advice on this standard is available by contacting: For UK and North Sea enquiries:

For UK and North Sea enquiries: OPITO OPITO Minerva House Minerva House Bruntland Road Bruntland Road Portlethen Portlethen Aberdeen, Scotland Aberdeen, Scotland AB12 4QL AB12 4QL Tel: +44 (0) 1224 787800 Tel: +44 (0) 1224 787800 Fax: +44 (0) 1224 787830 Fax: +44 (0) 1224 787830 Email:

Email: [email protected]@opito.com

For International enquiries: For International enquiries: OPITO

OPITO

Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd 10

10ththFloor, UBN TowerFloor, UBN Tower 10 Jalan P. Ramlee 10 Jalan P. Ramlee 50250 Kuala Lumpur 50250 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Malaysia Tel: +6 (03) 20727350 Tel: +6 (03) 20727350 Fax: +6 (03) 20727355 Fax: +6 (03) 20727355 Email:

All rights reserved. No part of No part of this publication mthis publication may be reproduced, stay be reproduced, stored in a retrievored in a retrieval oral or information storage system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, mechanical, information storage system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission in writing of the publishers. photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission in writing of the publishers.

AMENDMENTS

AMENDMENT

AMENDMENT & & DATE DATE PAGES PAGES CHANGESCHANGES MADE BY MADE BY CHECKED CHECKED BY BY APPROVED APPROVED BY BY Revision 1 released Revision 1 released 26-Mar 2010 26-Mar 2010

Any amendments made to this standard by

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The contents of this document were developed by an industry work group coordinated by The contents of this document were developed by an industry work group coordinated by OPITO and included:

OPITO and included:

Specialist Training Organisations Specialist Training Organisations OGUK Competence Steering Group OGUK Competence Steering Group Drilling Contractors

Drilling Contractors

Guidance and advice on this standard is available by contacting: Guidance and advice on this standard is available by contacting: For UK and North Sea enquiries:

For UK and North Sea enquiries: OPITO OPITO Minerva House Minerva House Bruntland Road Bruntland Road Portlethen Portlethen Aberdeen, Scotland Aberdeen, Scotland AB12 4QL AB12 4QL Tel: +44 (0) 1224 787800 Tel: +44 (0) 1224 787800 Fax: +44 (0) 1224 787830 Fax: +44 (0) 1224 787830 Email:

For International enquiries: For International enquiries: OPITO

OPITO

Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd 10

10ththFloor, UBN TowerFloor, UBN Tower 10 Jalan P. Ramlee 10 Jalan P. Ramlee 50250 Kuala Lumpur 50250 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Malaysia Tel: +6 (03) 20727350 Tel: +6 (03) 20727350 Fax: +6 (03) 20727355 Fax: +6 (03) 20727355 Email:

All rights reserved. No part of No part of this publication mthis publication may be reproduced, stay be reproduced, stored in a retrievored in a retrieval oral or information storage system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, mechanical, information storage system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission in writing of the publishers. photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission in writing of the publishers.

AMENDMENTS

AMENDMENT

AMENDMENT & & DATE DATE PAGES PAGES CHANGESCHANGES MADE BY MADE BY CHECKED CHECKED BY BY APPROVED APPROVED BY BY Revision 1 released Revision 1 released 26-Mar 2010 26-Mar 2010

Any amendments made to this standard by

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INTRODUCTION and COURSE DESCRIPTION

The international oil and gas industry recognises that a major objective is to prevent incidents occurring, and if they do occur, to control them and minimise their effect. It is important therefore to set common standards of training and to ensure they are maintained.

The specific purpose of this document is to set out the basic training, validation and certification requirements for Authorised Gas Testers (Levels 1, 2 & 3) conducted at OPITO approved training centres. The gas tester role is critical to ensure safe working conditions in permit controlled confined space or for hot work. Even sentries should be trained in gas testing skills as they play the lead in maintaining a safe working environment.

It will be for the duty holder or nominated representative to decide which personnel will undergo this training according to the requirements of the employing organisation. Operating companies and employers should also recognise that site specific training is integral to the training of a gas tester.

Where there is a need to have competence formally confirmed this will be done at the workplace through a company’s competence management system against the National Occupational Standard for The Testing for Oxygen, Toxic and Flammable Gases , which is included in Section E . An OPITO certificate is not awarded for an assessment of competence.

These standards have been developed using the UK legislative framework. Where this regime does not apply, training providers may substitute national requirements and demonstrate to OPITO their equivalence. Where no suitable equivalence exists the training provider should use the UK framework as an exemplar.

GLOSSARY

LEL Lower Explosive Limit

PPE Personal Protective Equipment PTW Permit to Work

RPE Respiratory Protective Equipment UEL Upper Explosive Limit

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FOR THE PURPOSE OF THIS STANDARD

Validate means to look at a “snapshot” of a delegate’s knowledge or performance at a particular point in time; for example, watching the delegate demonstrating initial training activities or the fact that he/she has passed a written examination.

Assess, and its associated nouns assessment and assessor, refer to the more in-depth analysis of a candidate’s performance during a formal competence assessment.

Occasionally, qualified assessors are required to validate that the training outcomes have been achieved by delegates in a training course; individual OPITO standards specifically outline this requirement in Section C.1, if applicable.

SECTION A INITIAL TRAINING PROGRAMME

Delegates attending this training programme will be given either: (a) a series of presentations or

(b) a computer based training programme (see Appendix 1)

Irrespective of the method used, the programme will explain to the delegates what they are expected to know and do when testing for oxygen and toxic and flammable gases.

The role of Authorised Gas Tester has three levels. Each level requires a different degree of knowledge as listed in A.4 Training Programme. The various levels do not represent a progression, but are unique training courses in their own right. Because there is some overlap it is up to the operators and training providers to decide how best to deliver the training levels, i.e. as three separate programmes or amalgamated into one or two single programmes.

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A.1 Target Groups

These programmes are designed to meet the initial onshore training and validation requirements for personnel preparing to work as Authorised Gas Testers for a variety of products and work environments.

AGT Level 1 is required for those involved with performing a test for oxygen, flammable and toxic gases up to and including working in confined spaces.

NOTE: Persons undertaking Safety Watch duties at the entrance to a confined space shall be an AGT Level 1 Gas Tester.

AGT Level 2 is required for those involved with testing for flammable gas in preparation for hot work.

AGT Level 3 is required for those who provide safety watch duties by the ongoing monitoring of a hot work site.

A.2 Delegate Prior Achievement

There are no delegate pre-requisites for attendance on each of these courses.

A.3 Physical & Stressful Demands of the Courses

All personnel who participate in gas testing training should be medically fit and capable of participating fully. The responsibility for the individual completing the course, without any adverse effects to their present state of health, lies with the delegate and/or the company sponsoring the delegate. Where doubt exists regarding the medical fitness of any delegate the training establishment should seek the advice of a medical officer.

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A.4 Performance Validation

Delegates attending these training and validation programmes will be given a series of explanations and demonstrations which will identify what they are expected to know and do. Validation of the delegates' performance will be against the stated training outcomes in A.5 Training Outcomes regardless of the delivery methodology used. A multiple choice written test with a minimum of 20 questions and a pass mark of 80%, should be used to gauge the delegates’ understanding of the topics.

Delegates successfully completing the course validation will be judged to have been given the underpinning knowledge for Authorised Gas Tester Level 1, 2 or 3 to proceed to the workplace for site specific assessment under direct supervision of a competent person’.

If required, further time and opportunity for coaching will be given to delegates to enable them to reach the standard leading to the award of a certificate. However, the time available for this during a programme is limited and it should be recognised there may be occasions where other arrangements need to be made.

A.5 Modules Summary and Training Outcomes

During the initial training programme delegates will gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of an Authorised Gas Tester.

The training course consists of the following modules and elements: MODULE 1 Authorised Gas Tester Level 1

Element 1.1 Testing in confined spaces Element 1.2 Relevant legislative controls

Element 1.3 Atmosphere measuring and monitoring equipment Element 1.4 Gas testing in confined spaces

Element 1.5 Interpreting and documenting the results MODULE 2 Authorised Gas Tester Level 2

Element 2.1 Testing for hot work

Element 2.2 Relevant legislative controls

Element 2.3 Atmosphere measuring and monitoring equipment Element 2.4 Gas testing for hot work

Element 2.5 Interpreting and documenting the results MODULE 3 Authorised Gas Tester Level 3

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MODULE 1 Authorised Gas Tester Level 1

On successful completion of the training, the delegate will be able to demonstrate an understanding of:

(1) Confined space criteria

(2) The hazards of operations within an oxygen deficient, toxic or flammable environment

(3) Carrying out a suitable and sufficient risk assessment (4) Using safe systems of work

(5) The implications of organisational and statutory requirements (6) Interpreting operational requirements

(7) Selecting and using PPE and RPE

(8) Working within the Permit to Work system

(9) The operating principles of atmosphere monitoring and measuring equipment (10) Gas detector pre-start checks

(11) Calibrating the instruments used in atmospheric testing

(12) How to set up the relevant detector for each gas testing application (13) The behaviour of different flammable and toxic gases

(14) The range and frequency of tests

(15) Acceptable levels of flammable and toxic gases (16) Performing gas tests in sequence

(17) Obtaining a representative atmosphere sample (18) Monitoring and retesting

(19) Where to site ongoing monitoring equipment (20) Interpreting and documenting the results

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Module 2 Authorised Gas Tester Level 2

(1) Hot work and the production of flammable and toxic gases (2) The principles of hot work gas testing

(3) The hazards and properties of flammable gases (4) Using risk assessments and safe systems of work

(5) The implications of organisational and statutory requirements (6) How to interpret operational requirements

(7) How to select, use and care for PPE and RPE (8) How to work within the Permit to Work system (9) Interpreting relevant operational instructions

(10) The operating principles of atmosphere measuring equipment

(11) The strengths and weaknesses of flammable and toxic gas detection equipment (12) How to set up the relevant detector and confirm its correct functioning

(13) Locating sentinel styled equipment for optimum benefit

(14) How to correctly obtain a representative sample of the atmosphere being tested (15) Gas detector pre-start checks

(16) Calibrating the instruments

(17) Detectors used for the flammable product (18) Interpreting and documenting the results

Module 3 Authorised Gas Tester Level 3

(1) Hot work and the creation of toxic products

(2) The implications of organisational and statutory requirements (3) How to select, use and care for PPE and RPE

(4) How to work within the Permit to Work system (5) How to interpret operational requirements

(6) The hazards and properties of flammable gases (7) The behaviour of different gases

(8) How a flammable gas or vapour clouds could arrive at the hot work site (9) Checking the controls on the equipment

(10) The importance of regular communication (11) Completing the relevant documentation

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A.6 Training Content

The training programme outlined below will assist the delegates to meet the stated training outcomes. The order in which elements of the training programme are delivered may vary. To make efficient use of time and ensure effective learning there should, wherever practicable, be an integration of the three phases of explanation, demonstration and practice. Full use should be made of visual / audio visual aids and course handout material.

MODULE 1

Authorised Gas Tester Level 1

ELEMENT 1.1 Testing in confined spaces

Give an explanation of:

1.1.1 Confined space criteria: (a) Limited openings for entry and exit (b) Unfavourable natural ventilation

(c) Not designed for continuous worker occupancy

1.1.2 The type of production operation being tested for flammable and toxic gases

1.1.3 The potential cumulative hazards of operations within an oxygen deficient, toxic or flammable environment

1.1.4 Carrying out a suitable and sufficient risk assessment before testing activities and confined space entry

1.1.5 Using safe systems of work including: (a) Appointment of a supervisor

(b) Entry permits (c) Ventilation

(d) Testing and continuous monitoring of the air (e) Communications

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ELEMENT 1.2 Relevant legislative controls

1.2.1 The implications of organisational and statutory requirements with respect to gas testing - to include HASAWA, Confined Space Regulations, COSHH and the relevant codes of practice and PFEER

1.2.2 The fact that the owner is responsible to make the confined space safe for entry

1.2.3 How to interpret operational requirements - to include policies, procedures, instructions, codes of practice and standards

1.2.4 How to select, use and care for PPE for different toxic and flammable gases through risk assessment

1.2.5 Consideration of appropriate levels of respiratory protective equipment 1.2.6 How to work both with and within the Permit to Work system

ELEMENT 1.3 Atmosphere measuring and monitoring equipment

1.3.1 How to access and interpret the relevant operational instructions

1.3.2 The operating principles of atmosphere monitoring and measuring equipment and frequently observed failure modes

1.3.3 The strengths and weaknesses of the various types of atmospheric flammable and toxic gas detection equipment - to include transportable, portable and personal monitors

1.3.4 How to correctly select between aspirating and non-aspirating detectors to obtain a representative sample of the atmosphere being tested

1.3.5 Equipment required in inert atmospheres 1.3.6 Gas detector pre-start checks

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ELEMENT 1.4 Gas testing in confined spaces

1.4.1 The hazards and properties of flammable and toxic gases including oxygen deficiency and enrichment, nitrogen and specialist materials appropriate to the location

1.4.2 The behaviour of different gases – to include heavier than air & lighter than air behaviour and “neutral buoyancy” effect

1.4.3 The range and frequency of tests

1.4.4 Acceptable levels of flammable and toxic gases and the correct amount of oxygen

1.4.5 The implications of WEL for toxic gases and LEL for flammable gases

1.4.6 How to set up the relevant detector for each gas testing application, its potential failure modes and confirming its correct functioning

1.4.7 Performing gas tests in sequence:

(a) Oxygen deficient or enriched atmospheres – ensure that proper oxygen levels are present

(b) Flammable atmospheres – ensure that combustible gases are not present (c) Toxic atmospheres – ensure that toxic gases are below the exposure limit

1.4.9 How to obtain a representative atmosphere sample from a range of confined spaces

1.4.10 Taking samples at the top, middle and bottom to locate varying concentrations of gases and vapors

1.4.11 Sampling confined spaces at a distance from the opening because air intrusion near the entrance can give a false sense of adequate oxygen present

1.4.12 Testing flammable gases in inert atmospheres 1.4.13 Monitoring and retesting after the initial entry

1.4.14 Where to site ongoing monitoring equipment for vessel entry

ELEMENT 1.5 Interpreting and documenting the results

1.5.1 How to interpret the results, to include both normal and abnormal 1.5.2 How to document the results and advise relevant personnel

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MODULE 2

Authorised Gas Tester Level 2

ELEMENT 2.1 Testing for hot work

2.1.1 Hot work (any operation involving naked flames or producing heat and/or sparks or any operation that has spark potential)

2.1.3 The principles of hot work gas testing as applied to the work area

2.1.4 The hazards and properties of flammable gases – to include gas and vapour cloud movement

2.1.5 The acceptable levels of flammable gases and the correct amount of oxygen

2.1.6 Carrying out a suitable and sufficient risk assessment before testing activities

2.1.7 Using safe systems of work including: (a) Appointment of a supervisor

(b) Removing flammable or combustible materials (c) Testing and continuous monitoring of the air (d) Providing a fire watch

(e) Communications

2.1.8 Using observers to raise the alarm and initiate emergency response

ELEMENT 2.2 Relevant legislative controls

2.2.1 The implications of organisational and statutory requirements with respect to gas testing - to include HASAWA, COSHH and the relevant codes of practice and PFEER

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ELEMENT 2.3 Atmosphere measuring and monitoring equipment

2.3.5 Gas detector pre-start checks

2.3.6 Calibrating the instruments used in atmospheric testing 2.3.7 Determining the extent of the test boundaries

ELEMENT 2.4 Gas testing for hot work

2.4.1 The different types of detectors used for the flammable product

2.4.2 How to set up the relevant detector for each gas testing application and confirm its correct functioning

2.4.3 How to correctly select between aspirating and non-aspirating detectors, relevant to the atmosphere being tested

2.4.4 The operating principles of atmospheric monitoring and measuring equipment including their strengths, weaknesses and frequently observed failure modes

2.4.5 Where to locate ‘sentinel styled’ portable or transportable site monitoring equipment for optimum benefit

ELEMENT 2.5 Interpreting and documenting the results

2.5.1 How to interpret the results, to include both normal and abnormal 2.5.2 How to document the results and advise relevant personnel

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MODULE 3

Authorised Gas Tester Level 3

ELEMENT 3.1 Providing safety watch duties for hot work sites

3.1.1 Hot work (any operation involving naked flames or producing heat and/or sparks or any operation that has spark potential)

3.1.3 The implications of organisational and statutory requirements with respect to gas testing - to include HASAWA, COSHH and the relevant codes of practice and PFEER

3.1.8 The hazards and properties of flammable gases

3.1.10 How a flammable gas or vapour clouds could arrive at the hot work site 3.1.11 The importance of checking the controls on the equipment is as specified 3.1.12 The importance of regular communication

3.1.13 Who to contact if there is a problem you cannot resolve 3.1.14 Completing the relevant documentation

A.7 Duration of Training

The optimum 'contact time' for this training and validation is estimated at: AGT 1 12 hours

AGT 2 7 hours AGT 3 4 hours

The above figures may reduce if programmes are merged as delivery may be over one or more days according to client and delegate preferences.

The total contact time per day shall not exceed 8 hours. The total training day shall not exceed 10 hours (the total training day includes contact time, coffee and meal breaks and travel time between training sites where applicable).

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SECTION B FURTHER TRAINING

Delegates attending this training programme will be given either: (c) a series of presentations or

(d) a computer based training programme (see Appendix 1)

Irrespective of the method used, the programme will explain to the delegates what they are expected to know and do when testing for oxygen and toxic and flammable gases. There will also be presentations and discussions about changes to equipment design, legislation, certification and, where possible, company procedures.

B.1 Further Training Target Group

These programmes are designed to meet further onshore training and validation requirements for personnel working as Authorised Gas Testers for a variety of products and work environments.

AGT Level 1 is for working in confined space or acting as a sentry for confined space AGT Level 2 is for testing the environment that will be used for hot work

AGT Level 3 is for safety watch duties other than confined space

B.2 Delegate Prior Achievement for Further Training

The delegate should have a valid and appropriate AGT Level 1, 2 or 3 certificate depending on the relevant level of further training.

B.3 Physical & Stressful Demands of the Course

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B.4 Further Performance Validation

Delegates attending these training and validation programmes will be given a series of explanations and demonstrations which will identify what they are expected to know and do. Validation of the delegates' performance will be against the stated training outcomes in B.5 Training Outcomes regardless of the delivery methodology used. A multiple choice written test with a minimum of 20 questions and a pass mark of 80%, should be used to gauge the delegates’ understanding of the topics.

Delegates successfully completing the further training validation will be judged to have been ‘Trained at an OPITO approved training centre so they can perform Level 1 (or Level 2 or Level 3) gas testing operations onsite.’

B.5 Further Training Modules Summary and Training Outcomes

During the further training programme delegates will gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of an Authorised Gas Tester at Level 1, 2 or 3.

Module 4 Authorised Gas Tester Level 1 Element 4.1 Recent changes

Element 4.2 Atmosphere measuring and monitoring equipment Element 4.3 Gas testing in confined spaces

Element 5.2 Atmosphere measuring and monitoring equipment Element 5.3 Gas testing for hot work

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MODULE 4 Authorised Gas Tester Level 1

(1) Changes to equipment design, legislation and certification

(2) The operating principles of atmosphere monitoring and measuring equipment (3) Gas detector pre-start checks

(4) Calibrating the instruments used in atmospheric testing

(5) How to set up the relevant detector for each gas testing application (6) The behaviour of different flammable and toxic gases

(7) The range and frequency of tests

(8) Acceptable levels of flammable and toxic gases (9) Performing gas tests in sequence

(10) Obtaining a representative atmosphere sample (11) Monitoring and retesting

(12) Where to site ongoing monitoring equipment MODULE 5 Authorised Gas Tester Level 2

(1) Changes to equipment design, legislation and certification (2) The operating principles of atmosphere measuring equipment

(3) The strengths and weaknesses of flammable and toxic gas detection equipment (4) How to set up the relevant detector and confirm its correct functioning

(5) Locating sentinel styled equipment for optimum benefit

(6) How to correctly obtain a representative sample of the atmosphere being tested (7) Gas detector pre-start checks

(8) Calibrating the instruments

(9) Detectors used for the flammable product MODULE 6 Authorised Gas Tester Level 3

(1) Changes to equipment design, legislation and certification (2) The hazards and properties of flammable gases

(3) The behaviour of different gases

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B.6 Further Training Content

MODULE 4

Authorised Gas Tester Level 1

ELEMENT 4.1 Recent changes

4.1.1 Changes to equipment design, legislation, certification and, where possible, company procedures

ELEMENT 4.2 Atmosphere measuring and monitoring equipment

4.2.5 Equipment required in inert atmospheres 4.2.6 Gas detector pre-start checks

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ELEMENT 4.3 Gas testing in confined spaces

4.3.1 The hazards and properties of flammable and toxic gases 4.3.2 The behaviour of different gases

4.3.3 The range and frequency of tests

4.3.4 Acceptable levels of flammable and toxic gases and the correct amount of oxygen

4.3.5 The implications of WEL for toxic gases and LEL for flammable gases

4.3.6 How to set up the relevant detector for each gas testing application, its potential failure modes and confirming its correct functioning

4.3.7 Performing gas tests in sequence:

4.3.8 How to obtain a representative sample of the atmosphere being tested 4.3.9 How to obtain a representative atmosphere sample from a range of

confined spaces

4.3.10 Taking samples at the top, middle and bottom to locate varying concentrations of gases and vapors

4.3.11 Sampling confined spaces at a distance from the opening 4.3.12 Testing flammable gases in inert atmospheres

4.3.13 Monitoring and retesting after the initial entry

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MODULE 5

Authorised Gas Tester Level 2

ELEMENT 5.1 Recent changes

ELEMENT 5.2 Atmosphere measuring and monitoring equipment

5.2.5 Gas detector pre-start checks

5.2.6 Calibrating the instruments used in atmospheric testing 5.2.7 Determining the extent of the test boundaries

ELEMENT 5.3 Gas testing for hot work

5.3.1 The different types of detectors used for the flammable product

5.3.2 How to set up the relevant detector for each gas testing application and confirm its correct functioning

5.3.3 How to correctly select between aspirating and non-aspirating detectors, relevant to the atmosphere being tested

5.3.4 The operating principles of atmospheric monitoring and measuring equipment including their strengths, weaknesses and frequently observed failure modes

5.3.5 Where to locate ‘sentinel styled’ portable or transportable site monitoring equipment for optimum benefit

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MODULE 6

Authorised Gas Tester Level 3

ELEMENT 6.1 Recent changes

ELEMENT 6.2 Further Training Safety Watch Duties for Hot Work

6.2.1 The hazards and properties of flammable gases

6.2.3 How a flammable gas or vapour clouds could arrive at the hot work site 6.2.4 The importance of checking the controls on the equipment is as specified 6.2.5 The importance of regular communication

6.2.6 Who to contact if there is a problem you cannot resolve

B.7 Duration of Further Training

The optimum 'contact time' for this training and validation is estimated at: AGT 1 7 hours

AGT 2 7 hours AGT 3 2 hours

The above figures may reduce if programmes are merged as delivery may be over one or more days according to client and delegate preferences.

The total contact time per day shall not exceed 8 hours. The total training day shall not exceed 10 hours (the total training day includes contact time, coffee and meal breaks and travel time between training sites where applicable).

For those who complete the CBT package the time spent at the terminal should comply fully with the Display Screen Equipment Legislation.

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SECTION C RESOURCES FOR INITIAL & FURTHER TRAINING

In order that the Authorised Gas Tester training may be delivered successfully it is essential that the right people are there to support the programme and that the appropriate facilities and equipment are in place.

C.1 Staff

Instructional staff will be required to carry out the training. It is important that the staff involved have the appropriate qualifications and experience.

Training staff will:

 Have recent, substantial experience of working as an Authorised Gas Tester in

the oil and gas or petrochemicals industries or continuous experience in delivering similar training

 Be trained in instructional/lecture techniques and/or have proven

instructing/teaching experience

 Be included in an ongoing staff training programme which includes worksite visits

to enable them to maintain and update skills and knowledge All staff will have:

 Appropriate competencies to conduct/assist with the element of training being

undertaken

C.2 Trainer/Delegate Ratio

The maximum number of delegates to be supervised by one instructor at any one time during each theory activity is twelve (1:12).

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C.3 Facilities & Location of Training

Different facilities may be required and it is important to make sure that these are available: Administration arrangements appropriate for enrolment and certification of delegates and all aspects of the delivery of training in accordance with this standard

Theory training area(s) designed to enable each delegate to view, hear and participate fully in the subject matter being taught

All facilities must be maintained and where appropriate, inspected and tested in accordance with current standards/legislation and manufacturers’ guidelines

Location of Training

It is recognised that the restricted range of resources and facilities required makes this course suitable for on-location training. However, prior to any courses being delivered remotely, training providers must comply with the following requirements:

(a) Prior to initial approval, the training provider will specify a single ‘approved site’ and advise OPITO of its intention to deliver training remotely

(b) The training provider will advise OPITO of the location of any remote training in advance of each delivery

(c) The training provider shall ensure the suitability of facilities and arrangements prior to delivery

(d) Documented evidence will be retained by the training provider to show that delivery of training at the remote site meets the criteria detailed in this OPITO standard including, but not limited to, facilities, equipment and qualification of instructional staff

(e) Documented management procedures shall be retained which record any measures required to assure the quality and safety of on location training

(f) All records and associated documentation must be retained at a single, specified location, mutually agreed with OPITO, and made available at time of audit

(g) OPITO reserves the right to physically audit any or all of the remote sites operated by the training provider

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C.4 Equipment

Equipment, of a type commonly used in industry, is required to meet the needs of the training programme including:

(1) Examples of relevant permits (2) Examples of appropriate PPE

(3) Examples of gas detection equipment – portable and personal monitors (4) Operating instructions for the detection equipment

In accordance with requirements of OPITO approval, training providers must ensure that first aid equipment and medical assistance would be available immediately should a delegate be in need of it.

All equipment must be maintained, and where appropriate, inspected and tested in accordance with current standards/legislation, guidance and manufacturers recommendations.

SECTION D ADMINISTRATION & CERTIFICATION

D.1 Joining Instructions – not applicable

D.2 Periodicity

Authorised Gas Testers Levels 1, 2 or 3 must revalidate their OPITO certificates every three years.

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D.3 Certification

An OPITO Certificate will be issued to all delegates assessed as meeting the stated outcomes for the appropriate level. The issue of a certificate indicates that the delegate has completed the training successfully such that he/she is ready to join a work team for further installation-specific training and assessment against the competence statements in Section E.

It is the responsibility of the training provider to supply the delegate’s details to OPITO. It is also the responsibility of the training provider to issue the delegates with a certificate containing the following:

 Establishment Name

 Full OPITO Course Title stating that it is OPITO approved and clearly identifying

training location i.e. onshore / offshore.

 Delegate's Name  Course Dates  Certificate Number  Establishment Signatory

D.4 Course Administration

Each delegate attending any OPITO approved programme must be registered with the Central Register (CR) operated by OPITO. Registration must be made by the training establishment to OPITO within one week following the course.

OPITO confirms that information on the registration form will be contained in a computerised register which will be available to employers, prospective employers and training providers in the oil and gas industry to verify training records. At all times use of this data will be strictly in accordance with principles laid down in the UK Data Protection Act, 1998.

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SECTION E OPITO APPROVED COMPETENCE STATEMENTS

E.1 Development of Competence Statements

To develop a training course, an assessment of workplace competence is required. In other words, what does an employee have to know and do if he/she is an Authorised Gas Tester? The competence statements from the National Occupational Standard for The Testing for Oxygen, Toxic and Flammable Gases are included in this section.

Using a competence-based approach the following were identified and developed for this role: (a) What personnel are expected to do

(b) The underpinning knowledge and skills they would require to enable them to do what was expected

(c) How they could demonstrate what was expected of them (d) How their performance would be assessed

Using the identified knowledge and skills, the content of a training programme was developed and is outlined in Section A of this standard.

E.2 Competence Outcomes

Three levels of persons are involved with testing for oxygen, flammable and toxic gases.

AGT Level 1 is required for those involved with performing a test for oxygen, flammable and toxic gases up to and including working in confined spaces. Personnel undertaking this role will be assessed against Units 1, 2 & 3 (which are outlined in E.3 Competence Units).

NOTE: Persons undertaking Standby/Safety Watch duties at the entrance to a confined space shall be an AGT Level 1 Gas Tester.

AGT Level 2 is required for those involved with testing for flammable gas in preparation for hot work. Personnel undertaking this role will be assessed against Units 2 & 3.

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During this work you must take account of the relevant operational requirements and safe working practices AS THEY APPLY TO YOU.

The following units and elements apply:

Unit 1 Perform a Test for Oxygen, Flammable and Toxic Gases in Confined Spaces

Element 1.1 Prepare to carry out a test for oxygen, toxic and flammable gases in confined spaces

Element 1.2 Complete the gas test for oxygen, toxic and flammable gases in confined spaces Unit 2 Perform a Test for Flammable Gases in Preparation for Hot Work

Element 2.1 Prepare to carryout a test for flammable gases in preparation for hot work Element 2.2 Complete the gas test for flammable gases

Unit 3 Monitor the Work Area for Flammable Gases Unit 3.1 Monitor the work area for flammable gases

E.3 Competence Units

Unit Wide Knowledge and Understanding

Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

 How to select, use and care for PPE for different toxic and flammable gases - to

include both sight and hearing protection, gloves, footwear, hard hats and coveralls

 The strengths and weaknesses of the various types of atmospheric flammable

and toxic gas detection equipment - to include transportable, portable and personal monitors

 The implications of organisational and statutory requirements

 The implications of Occupational Exposure Limits for flammable and toxic gases  The hazards associated with working within a toxic, flammable or Non-Life

supporting atmosphere

 How to work both with and within the Permit to Work system

 How to interpret operational requirements - to include policies, procedures,

instructions, codes of practice and standards

 The range and frequency of tests and their acceptable limits  The hazards and properties of flammable, toxic and inert gases

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UNIT 1

Perform a Test for Oxygen, Flammable and Toxic Gases in

Confined Spaces

ELEMENT 1.1

Prepare to carry out a test for oxygen, toxic and flammable

gases in confined spaces

This element is about preparing the worksite for the test and includes identifying the correct gas detector for the area or environment.

Standards of Performance

In achieving this element you will have (in accordance with procedures):

1.1.1 Undertaken a risk assessment with the relevant personnel to identify and confirm all the types of potential gas hazards and their possible locations

1.1.2 Selected, inspected and prepared for use the appropriate oxygen or gas detector(s) in accordance with the relevant instructions

1.1.3 Confirmed the equipment functional and fit for purpose

1.1.4 Identified equipment defects and taken the appropriate remedial action

1.1.5 Confirmed the status of the relevant work permits and authorisations with the relevant personnel

1.1.6 Selected the appropriate documentation for the test and environment 1.1.7 Worked safely in accordance with operational requirements

Scope:

In preparing to carryout a test for oxygen, toxic and flammable gases in confined spaces you must use the following pieces of equipment and /or operations:

 Personal protective equipment

 Portable atmospheric monitoring equipment relevant to the test in hand  Work permits and authorisation documentation

 Recording documentation  Personal monitoring equipment

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Element 1.1 Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Wide Knowledge and Guidance)

 How to access and interpret the relevant operational instructions

 How to produce general risk assessments and how to apply them in the

workplace

 The hazards and properties of flammable and toxic gases including oxygen

deficiency and enrichment, nitrogen and specialist materials appropriate to the location

 The different types of detectors used for the relevant application

 How to set up the relevant detector for each gas testing application and confirm

its correct functioning

 How to correctly select between aspirating and non-aspirating detectors to obtain

a representative sample of the atmosphere being tested

 The operating principles of atmosphere monitoring and measuring equipment

including their strengths weaknesses and frequently observed failure modes

 The potential cumulative effects of operations within an oxygen deficient, toxic or

flammable environment

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ELEMENT 1.2

Complete the gas test for oxygen, toxic and flammable gases

in confined spaces

This element is about completing the gas test in accordance with the manufacturer’s and companies requirements.

1.2.1 Completed the gas test to conform to statutory and organisational requirements 1.2.2 Effectively used equipment in accordance with the relevant instructions

1.2.3 Confirmed the readings were within the specified limits

1.2.4 Identified any deviations and took appropriate action in accordance with work place requirements

1.2.5 Worked safely and in accordance with operational instructions relevant to confined spaces

1.2.6 Accurately recorded the results of the test on the appropriate documentation

Scope:

Whilst completing the test for oxygen, toxic and flammable gases in confined spaces you must use the following:

 Portable atmospheric monitoring equipment to include oxygen, flammable and

toxic gas detectors, including both electrical and chemical stain types

 Personal monitoring equipment

 Gas testing techniques to include physical measurements, observation, sampling,

records and data assessment

 Relevant Instructions to include legislation, codes of practice, manufacturers’ and

company instructions

Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Wide Knowledge and Guidance)

 How to interpret the results, to include both normal and abnormal

 The acceptable levels of flammable and toxic gases and the correct amount of

oxygen

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UNIT 2

Perform a Test for Flammable Gases in Preparation for Hot Work

ELEMENT 2.1

Prepare to carry out a test for flammable gas in preparation for

hot work

This element is about preparing the worksite for the test and includes identifying the correct gas detector for the area or environment.

2.1.1 Undertaken a risk assessment with the relevant personnel to identify and confirm all the types of potential gas hazards and their possible locations

2.1.2 Selected, inspected and prepared for use the appropriate oxygen or gas detector(s) in accordance with the relevant instructions

2.1.3 Confirmed the equipment functional and fit for purpose

2.1.4 Identified equipment defects and taken the appropriate remedial action

2.1.5 Confirmed the status of the relevant work permits and authorisations with the relevant personnel

2.1.6 Selected the appropriate documentation for the test and environment 2.1.7 Worked safely in accordance with operational requirements

Scope:

In preparing to carry out a test for flammable gases you must use the following pieces of equipment and/or operations:

 Personal protective equipment

 Portable gas monitoring equipment relevant to the test in hand  Work permits and authorization documentation

 Recording documentation  Personal monitoring equipment

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Element 2.1 Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Wide Knowledge and Guidance)

 The hazards and properties of flammable gases including oxygen deficiency and

enrichment and specialist materials appropriate to the location

 How to produce general risk assessments and how to apply them in the

workplace

 The operating principles of the different types of detectors used for the flammable

product including their strengths, weaknesses and frequently observed failure modes

 How to correctly set up the relevant detector for each gas testing application

 How to correctly select between aspirating and non-aspirating detectors, relevant

to the atmosphere being tested

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ELEMENT 2.2

Complete the gas test for flammable gases

This element is about completing the gas test in accordance with the manufacturer’s and companies requirements.

2.2.1 Completed the gas test to conform to statutory and organisational requirements 2.2.2 Effectively used equipment in accordance with the relevant instructions

2.2.3 Confirmed the readings were within the specified limits

2.2.4 Identified any deviations and took appropriate action in accordance with work place requirements

2.2.5 Worked safely and in accordance with operational instructions relevant to the work area 2.2.6 Accurately recorded the results of the test on the appropriate documentation

Scope:

Whilst completing the test for oxygen, toxic and flammable gases in confined spaces you must use the following:

 Transportable and portable atmospheric monitoring equipment  Personal monitoring equipment

 Gas testing techniques to include physical measurements, observation, sampling,

records and data assessment

 Relevant Instructions to include legislation, codes of practice, manufacturers’ and

company instructions



Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Wide Knowledge and Guidance)

 The principles of hot work gas testing as applied to the work area  How to interpret the results, to include both normal and abnormal

 The acceptable levels of flammable gases and the correct amount of oxygen  The behaviour of different gases – to include heavier than air & lighter than air

behaviour and “neutral buoyancy” effect

 Where to locate ‘sentinel styled’ portable or transportable site monitoring

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UNIT 3

Monitor the Work Area for Flammable Gases

ELEMENT 3.1

Monitor the work area for flammable gases

In achieving this element you will have (in accordance with procedures): 3.1.1 Accurately sited the equipment for optimum benefits

3.1.2 Monitored the level of gas at intervals as required by the work permit 3.1.3 Effectively and regularly checked the operation of the gas monitor 3.1.4 Identified and reported any deviations to the relevant personnel

3.1.5 Confirmed that the detector / monitor is correctly responsive to a flammable gas atmosphere

Scope:

Whilst monitoring the work area for flammable gases you must use:

 Transportable and portable atmospheric monitoring equipment  Personal monitoring equipment

Element 3.1 Knowledge and Understanding

 How to select, use and care for PPE for different toxic and flammable gases - to

include both sight and hearing protection, gloves, footwear, hard hats and coveralls

 The implications of organisational and statutory requirements - to include

Occupational Exposure Limits for flammable gases

 How to work both with and within the Permit to Work system

 How to access and interpret operational requirements - to include policies,

procedures, instructions, codes of practice and standards

 The hazards and properties of flammable gases

 The type of production operation being tested for flammable gases

 The importance of checking the controls on the equipment is as specified  The importance of regular communication

 Who to contact if there is a problem you cannot resolve

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Appendix 1 COMPUTER BASED LEARNING PACKAGES

This section sets out the principle criteria for the design and presentation of the Computer Based Learning packages.

Programme Design

The design of the programme should ensure the package is interactive and engaging for the learner. There must be a clear navigation system which ensures that the delegate is at ease with the learning technology and the programme should assume the learner has little or no computer experience.

Screen text should be limited to summarising and for bullet points. Prompts should be included in the programme to alert the learner to the need for regular breaks about every 20 minutes. The design media used should be ‘just behind’ cutting edge IT technology but take account of the local circumstances of the client.

CBT Equipment

Trained facilitators should be available at remote locations to correct simple faults with the learning package and the hardware.

On site learning should take place on dedicated equipment in a location suitable for the purpose.

AuthorisedGasTester Standard