Cat and Genny Training

Advanced Proficiency and Safety in Cable Avoidance Techniques

What is a Cat and Genny Training Course?

The Cat and Genny Training course offers in-depth education on safely and effectively using cable avoidance tools, specifically Cat and Genny systems. This course prepares participants to operate these crucial tools with precision, enhancing safety and efficiency on construction sites and other work environments. The curriculum extensively covers device operation, interpretation of signals, practical strategies for avoiding underground hazards, and an introduction to HSG47 – Avoiding Dangers from Underground Services.

Course Content

What can I expect from Cat and Genny course?

Participants will develop proficiency in:

Legislation and Safety Guidance: Understand the legal aspects and safety guidance including HSG47 to navigate the complexities of underground services.
Understanding Cable Avoidance and Associated Hazards: Learn the principles of electromagnetic theory, the limitations of CAT Detectors and Genny 4 Signal Generators, and methods for hazard avoidance.
Operational Techniques: Master the use of Cat and Genny equipment with a focus on detecting buried services and understanding depth measurements.
Practical Application: Engage in hands-on sessions using Cat and Genny devices to locate buried services, apply ground markings, and perform safety inspections and function checks.

Entry Requirements

Are there any entry requirements for the Cat and Genny course?

The Cat and Genny course is specifically designed for individuals involved in any excavation activities where identifying, locating, and marking underground services are crucial. This includes but is not limited to workers on construction sites, roadworks, and industrial estates. Participants must also have a good understanding of spoken and written English to ensure clear comprehension of course materials and safety instructions.

Due to the physical demands associated with handling the equipment and performing excavation tasks, participants should be in good physical health. If there are any health concerns that might impact your ability to operate the equipment safely, it is crucial to discuss these with your employer. Appropriate assessments and accommodations can be made to ensure all participants can use the equipment effectively and safely.

Assessment

How is the Cat and Genny training course assessed?

The assessment process for the Cat and Genny course is designed to validate the knowledge and skills acquired by participants during their training. It consists of two main components: a theoretical test and a practical assessment.

Theoretical Test: Learners will sit a short theoretical test that covers all key concepts discussed in the course. This test ensures that participants have understood the underlying principles of using Cat and Genny equipment, including safety protocols, operational techniques, and the interpretation of underground service layouts.
Practical Assessment: During the practical segment of the course, participants are required to demonstrate their hands-on proficiency. They will engage in real-world scenarios to locate a variety of buried services using the Cat and Genny tools. This assessment requires participants to accurately identify underground utilities while strictly adhering to industry standards and best practices. The practical assessment not only tests their ability to use the equipment effectively but also their capacity to apply these skills safely and responsibly in a controlled environment.

Together, these assessments ensure that participants are fully equipped and competent to handle the challenges of detecting underground services in their professional roles, reinforcing both safety and efficiency on the job.

Certification

Participants will receive a certificate upon successful completion, validating their expertise in using Cat and Genny for cable avoidance. This certification is essential for compliance with industry standards and enhancing safety on job sites.

FAQs

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FAQs

What does a CAT and Genny detect?

A CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) and Genny (Signal Generator) are used together to detect and trace underground utilities and services. Here's what they specifically detect:

Electric Cables: When used in conjunction with the Genny, the CAT can detect electromagnetic signals that the Genny emits, which are induced in these cables. This is particularly useful for locating live electrical cables.
Metal Pipes: The Genny can also induce signals in metal pipes, allowing the CAT to detect these as well. This is useful for tracing the paths of metal water and gas pipes underground.
Other Conductive Utilities: Apart from electricity cables and metal pipes, any other conductive materials buried underground can be detected if the Genny’s signal can be induced in them.

Additionally, the CAT can be used in a passive mode where it picks up naturally occurring electromagnetic fields from live electrical cables without the need for a Genny. This allows for the detection of live power cables even if a Genny is not used.

Overall, the combination of a CAT and Genny enhances the capability to detect and trace a variety of underground utilities, significantly reducing the risk of accidentally striking these utilities during excavation or other ground-intrusive activities.

Do you need to be qualified to use a CAT scanner?

Yes, it is generally necessary to be trained and possibly certified to use a CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) scanner effectively and safely. While formal qualifications may not always be mandated by law, comprehensive training is crucial for several reasons:

Safety: Using a CAT scanner involves detecting potentially dangerous utilities such as electrical cables and gas lines. Proper training ensures that the operator understands how to use the equipment safely to avoid accidents, such as striking a live cable.
Efficiency: Training helps operators use the CAT scanner more effectively, ensuring that utilities are accurately located and marked, which saves time and prevents costly mistakes.
Compliance: In many regions, there are specific health and safety regulations that govern excavation and construction work. Training in the use of a CAT scanner may be required to comply with these regulations.
Understanding Limitations: Professional training typically covers not only the operation of the equipment but also its limitations, which is vital for interpreting the results correctly.

For these reasons, anyone planning to use a CAT scanner should undergo appropriate training, which is often provided by the manufacturers of the equipment, professional training organisations, or within company training programs.

Can a CAT and Genny detect water pipes?

Yes, a CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) and Genny (Signal Generator) can detect water pipes, but there are some conditions and limitations to be aware of. Here’s how it works:

Metal Water Pipes: CAT and Genny systems are very effective at detecting metal water pipes. The Genny can induce a signal directly into metal pipes, or indirectly by using a signal clamp. The CAT then detects this signal, allowing the operator to trace the path of the pipe.
Non-Metallic Water Pipes: Detecting non-metallic pipes, such as those made of plastic, is more challenging because they do not conduct the electromagnetic signals used by a CAT and Genny. In these cases, a signal transmitter (sonde) can be used. The sonde is inserted into the pipe (if possible) and transmits a signal that can be detected by the CAT.

Therefore, while CAT and Genny equipment is versatile, detecting non-metallic pipes requires additional methods or tools to ensure accurate location. Training and understanding the capabilities and limitations of your specific equipment are crucial for successful detection.