Our CAT and Genny Operator course delivers 4 hours of theory and practical instruction and is designed to teach up to a maximum of 8 delegates, providing the essential knowledge needed to safely and correctly operate a Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) along with a Signal Generator (GENNY) when tracing underground services to meet the guidance from HSG 47 for Avoiding Danger from Underground Services.
The course involves hands on use of the actual locators to detect and trace the route of buried underground services. This will cover the different types of buried services that exist, current legislation and best practice concerning detecting buried services, the safety implications of not using a locator and associated ancillary equipment, use of local utility plans, observation of evidence in the street etc.
This course consists of a training room lecture, presentation, written assessment, practical training and assessment.
The CAT and Genny Operator course is intended for those who operate, supervise or manage the use of Cable Avoidance Tools and Signal Generators in the workplace to avoid the dangers of underground services.
There are no prerequisites for this course, although an understanding of underground services, utility plans and cable avoidance tools are an advantage.
Since the safe use of cable avoidance tools require that delegates consult safety notices and read and thoroughly understand the manufacturer’s instruction manual, English literacy and language comprehension are important requirements for any user.
During this course, we use a variety of models from the Radiodetection Cat 4 Range. However, if you have your own (calibrated) model you would like to use, please bring this with you for the course.
The agenda for the CAT & Genny Operator course includes:
- Purpose of locators and signal generators
- Safe digging practices
- Locating utilities
- The need to use utility plans
- HSG47 legislation guidance
- The theory of locating services
- Functions of a Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT)
- Functions of a Signal Generator (Genny)
- Range of Modes on a CAT
- Utilising Power mode
- Utilising Radio mode
- Utilising Signal Generator mode
- Utilising AllScan mode
- Understanding Depth Measurements
- Understanding Strike Alerts
- Theory Assessment
- Outdoor Practical Training - Service tracing session using local utility plans
- Practical Assessment
Successful delegates will receive a CAT and Genny Operator e-certification accredited by Kentec Training valid for a period of 3 years from the date of the course.
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As the practical element of your CAT & Genny course can take place in the public space, you are required to wear high-visibility vest or clothing. You are not required to bring your own Cable Avoidance Tool as one will be provided for the duration of the practical training. Full PPE requirements will be confirmed in your booking confirmation and joining instructions.
If needed, high-visibility PPE can be purchased from Reception at our Tonbridge and Ashford Training Centres.
Yes, we can absolutely offer you support. We understand that everyone learns differently, and we’re committed to making our courses accessible to all. Our instructors are experienced in delivering training to individuals with varying levels of reading and writing ability.
We can offer additional verbal guidance, practical demonstrations, and one-to-one support when attending training courses at one of our training centres. If required, we can also arrange for assistance during written assessments, such as a reader.
Please let our support team know in advance if you have any concerns, and we’ll do everything we can to support you in successfully completing your training.
Several of our training courses involve practical elements, which may include working at height, lifting equipment, or operating machinery. You should be in good general health and physically able to take part in these activities safely. If you have any medical conditions, injuries, or concerns that may affect your ability to participate, please let our support team know in advance so we can advise you on course suitability and any reasonable adjustments that may be available.
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