EUSR CAT 1 & CAT 2 TRAINING

The EUSR Category 1 and 2 training are two separate courses that can be combined to focus on the safe detection and excavation of underground utility services. Category 1 covers locating services using approved methods and equipment like a CAT and Genny, while Category 2 focuses on safe digging practices and maintaining excavations with hand tools and provides necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to comply with industry standards and HSE guidance (HSG47)

Course Objectives:

• To reduce the risk of utility strikes during excavation.
• To ensure safe working practices when detecting underground services.
• To comply with HSE guidance (HSG47) and relevant legislation.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Understanding Utility Plans:
• Reading and interpreting utility drawings and line search documents.
• Identifying symbols and coded information.
2. Detection Equipment Training:
• Safe use of Cable Avoidance Tools (CAT) and Signal Generators (Genny).
• Overview of detection technologies including ground-penetrating radar (GPR).
3. Practical Site Skills:
• Preparing and using location equipment.
• Site marking techniques for identified utilities.
• Hands-on exercises in real-world scenarios.
4. Hazard Awareness:
• Identifying dangers associated with underground and overhead services.
• Understanding why some services are harder to detect.
• Emergency procedures and risk mitigation.
5. Legislation and Standards:
• HSE HSG47 – Avoiding Danger from Underground Services.
• HSG150 – Health and Safety in Construction.
• PAS 128:2022 – Specification for underground utility detection.
• GS6 – Avoiding danger from overhead power lines.
6. Assessment and Certification:
• Written theory tests, practical observation, and oral questions.
• Successful delegates receive an EUSR Category 1 card, valid for 3 years.

Course Objectives:
• To equip delegates with the knowledge and practical skills to safely excavate and maintain holes and trenches using hand tools and handheld power tools.
• To reduce the risk of utility strikes and ensure compliance with health and safety legislation.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Legislation and Guidance:
   • Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSWA)
   • CDM Regulations 2015
   • HSG47 – Avoiding Danger from Underground Services
   • HSG150 – Health and Safety in Construction
   • PUWER 1998, Work at Height Regulations 2015
   • Confined Spaces Regulations 1997
2. Safe Digging Practices:
   • Techniques for hand digging and using handheld power tools.
   • Identifying and managing excavation hazards.
   • Interpreting utility drawings and line search documents.
   • Marking and preparing excavation sites safely.
3. Risk Management:
   • Conducting and interpreting Risk Assessments.
   • Understanding and applying Permits to Work.
   • Recognising good vs. poor excavation practices.
4. Soil and Ground Conditions:
   • Identifying different soil types and how they affect excavation safety.
   • Adapting techniques to changing ground conditions.
5. Assessment and Certification:
   • Includes both a written test and a practical assessment.
   • Successful candidates receive an EUSR Category 2 Card, valid for 3 years.