What is a NPORS Cat & Genny Training Course?
The NPORS Cat & Genny (Cable Avoidance Tool and Signal Generator) training course is essential for professionals who need to detect and avoid underground utilities such as electrical cables, water pipes, and gas lines during excavation projects. The course provides comprehensive training on the operation and maintenance of CAT and Genny devices, emphasising their critical role in increasing the accuracy of locating subsurface services. Trainees learn about the functionalities of these devices, the potential risks of striking underground utilities, and the best practices to avoid such incidents.
In addition to practical skills, the course covers the legal and compliance aspects related to excavation, equipping participants with knowledge of regulations to ensure safe digging practices. Through hands-on experience and problem-solving scenarios, participants are prepared to handle real-world challenges, effectively preventing costly and dangerous utility strikes.
Course Content
What can I expect from the NPORS CAT and Genny course?
When you enrol in the NPORS CAT and Genny course, you can expect a comprehensive training program designed to equip you with essential skills and knowledge for effectively locating and avoiding underground utilities. The course aims to foster a basic understanding of the industry, including the roles and responsibilities of those using CAT (Cable Avoidance Tools) and Genny (Signal Generators) equipment. You'll learn about the relevant regulations, standards, and legislation that govern underground utility detection.
During the course, you will engage in several key activities:
By the end of the course, participants will not only understand how to use CAT and Genny tools effectively but also how to perform their tasks safely, ensuring minimal risk to themselves, the public, and the infrastructure they are working around. This training is crucial for anyone involved in construction or any field requiring excavation and groundwork near potential underground hazards.
Entry Requirements
Are there any entry requirements for the NPORS CAT and Genny Training course?
Please be aware that all operators must provide documentation to support their application. This includes proof of having passed the CITB Health, Safety & Environmental touch screen test within the two years leading up to their application. Additionally, a proficient understanding of both spoken and written English is required.
Assessment
The NPORS assessment features both theoretical and practical elements. The theoretical part comprises a combination of multiple-choice and open-ended questions. Furthermore, learners will undergo a practical assessment where they apply their skills in real-world scenarios.
Certification
Operators without the necessary (S)NVQ qualifications will be issued a Trained Operator card, which remains valid for two years. Within this period, they must enrol in and successfully complete the relevant (S)NVQ pertaining to the types of plant equipment listed on their card.
Operators who possess an (S)NVQ qualification will receive a Competent Operator card, which has a validity of five years. Additionally, they will be provided with a CPD record/operator logbook to track their continuous professional development and log hours of operation in their field of work.
To keep their card and NPORS registration active, operators are encouraged to take a 1-day NPORS Refresher Course every 3 years.
Available training dates
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Cat and Genny Training View CourseHow long does a CAT and Genny course take?
A CAT and Genny training course typically takes one day to complete.
This includes both theoretical and practical training, covering the safe and effective use of the equipment, as well as assessments to ensure participants have a solid understanding of the tools and their applications. Some courses may vary slightly in duration based on the training provider or specific needs of the participants, but it is generally a full-day session.
Do you need training to use a CAT scanner?
Yes, training is required to use a CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) scanner safely and effectively.
While the equipment itself may seem straightforward, proper training ensures that operators fully understand how to interpret signals correctly, avoid mistakes, and prevent accidents such as damaging underground utilities. Training covers essential skills like reading site plans, performing pre-operation checks, conducting site surveys, identifying underground services, and complying with relevant safety regulations.
By completing a CAT and Genny training course, operators gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to use the equipment confidently, reducing the risk of costly or dangerous errors. Many employers and worksites require formal certification, like the NPORS CAT and Genny certification, before allowing operators to use the equipment.
Who can operate a CAT and Genny?
A CAT and Genny can be operated by individuals who have received the appropriate training and certification. Typically, this includes professionals involved in excavation, construction, utility work, or groundwork, where there is a risk of encountering underground services such as electrical cables, gas lines, and water pipes.
While anyone who is properly trained can operate a CAT and Genny, common roles that require this training include:
What does CAT stand for in CAT and genny?
Cable Avoidance Tool.
