Gas Test Atmospheres

Introduction:

Harness offers a half day Gas Test Atmospheres training course covering the skills and knowledge required to test the working atmosphere, using electronic test apparatus, to find out if it is safe for the proposed work. 

It applies to situations where an individual may be required to carry out gas testing of an atmosphere prior to entering a specific area or workspace. The competency requires the person to interpret readings and take actions based on the interpretation. 

Working environment may be hazardous, unpredictable, subject to time pressure, chaotic and expose responders to risk, on land or water, by day or night. Workplace atmospheres may include visible and invisible hazards and hazardous surfaces. 
 

The unit is suitable for use in the following situations: 

• Confined spaces 

• Enclosed and partially enclosed spaces 

• Hot work 

• Storage tanks, silos, pits, pipes, shafts, ducts, transport vehicles and ships 

• Testing as part of issuing a work permit 

• Monitoring as part of working under a work permit 

• Open areas 

• Holding the gas tester by hand 

• Lowering the gas tester into a space (e.g. on a line). 

This unit of competency applies to an individual working alone or as part of a team or group and working in liaison with other shift team members and the control room operator, as appropriate. 

Learning Methods:

The mode of delivery for this course is face to face in a classroom environment as well as significant practical elements outside of the classroom. 

In the delivery of this course, our trainers focus on providing an individualised adult learning environment that considers the learner’s experience and employment history. 

Theory is presented in a supportive learner centred environment designed to provide functional theoretical knowledge that is directly applicable to real world tasks. Learning materials provided include the Harness student handbook and participants will be advised in advance of attending the course if there are any materials to be provided by them.

The assessment for this course has been designed to assess the individual to the Australian Qualification Framework, relevant Training Package, Australian and Industry expectations, as well as Commonwealth and State Legislation. 

Course Content

The Harness Gas Test Atmospheres training includes: 

Prepare for Gas Testing

• Find out type of gas/atmosphere to be tested 

• Select and calibrate equipment in accordance with procedures 

• Find out gas testing regime/sampling pattern required 

• Identify hazards from possible atmosphere contaminants 

• Implement hazard control measures and use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

Test gas:

• Use gas testing equipment to test gas as required 

• Interpret and report readings 

• Monitor gas on an ongoing basis as required 

• Take required action if readings are unacceptable 

• Communicate required actions to be taken to appropriate personnel 

Maintain equipment:

• Clean and maintain gas testing equipment in accordance with procedures 

• Inspect and fault-find monitoring equipment in accordance with procedures 

• Return gas testing equipment to required location and in required location 

• Maintain records of tests and results in accordance with procedures