Safeguarding Subterranean Excavation: CAT and Genny Training

The Importance of Safe Digging Practices

When you receive an excavation-related contract or utility assignment, it is your responsibility to be aware of the safety procedures associated with any subterranean facility. Working underground always carries the risk of encountering something in an unexpected location. Therefore, incorporating a safe work strategy when digging is crucial. Start by creating a detailed design, followed by locating and identifying any underground utilities, and using safe digging techniques. In addition to EUSR HSG47, operatives must complete a CAT Course.

Advantages for the Student

By taking this course, students will gain knowledge in the following areas and apply it practically to locate and avoid utility services:

●     Environmental, health, and safety duties

●     Site-specific risk assessment

●     Individual safety gear

●     Subterranean utility services risks

●     Health and safety laws and recommendations

●     Finding utility services using plans and approved techniques

●     The guiding principles and operations of the CAT and Genny

Benefits for Employers

Employers who send their employees to this course can expect the following advantages:

●     Reduced risk from health and safety hazards related to utility service damage

●     Lower costs associated with damaged equipment and utility services

What This Course Will Teach You

The standard for this course is based on the following National Occupational Standards:

●     EUSMUNC06: Locate and Avoid Services for Utility Networks Construction

●     EUSEPUS044: Location and Identification of Subterranean Utility Services in the Electricity Power Utilities Sector

The course also covers pertinent guidelines from HSE documents:

●     HSG47: Avoiding Danger from Underground Services

●     HSG150: Health and Safety in Construction

When the standard is met, participants will demonstrate successful performance by showcasing the following abilities and knowledge:

●     How to read line search documents and utility drawings

●     How to locate underground services using detection equipment

●     How to recognise the risks and hazards associated with subterranean services

What to Bring to the Course

Participants should bring the following items with them:

1. High-visibility jacket or vest
2. Passport photo for their EUSR card

Safety-Critical Training: Beyond the Basics

This safety-critical training increases the knowledge needed to safely locate underground utility services through both theoretical and practical examinations. The education goes beyond standard "in-house" sessions and aligns with both EUSR and National Occupational Standards. It is often referred to as EUSR HSG47 or CAT & Genny training.

This course is beneficial for individuals who need to read utility drawings and/or use service detection equipment to locate a range of subsurface services.