Gas Test Atmospheres
NOTE: This training is not offered by iMINCO. Information provided for educational purposes only.
When working in an industry that exposes you to harmful toxic gases, you must have the proper training in managing the risk to yourselves and others in the workplace. This Gas Testing training course is designed for workers who work in close proximity or directly within hazardous atmospheres in the workplace.
The Gas Test Atmospheres unit of competency is about testing the working atmosphere to determine if it is safe for the proposed work. Atmospheric testing is required for two distinct purposes: Evaluation of the hazards of the permit space and verification that acceptable entry conditions for entry into that space exist. Testing involves the use of electronic test apparatus.
In a typical scenario you 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. Areas that may need to be tested atmospherically would include such situations as working in a confined space, restricted spaces, working close to hazardous material storage areas, or any area which may contain dangerous goods or fluids.
Potential risks in a mining environment
Gas explosions
Gas explosions often occur in coal mines from a build-up of methane gas. Therefore, good ventilation of the work area is essential to prevent pockets of gas forming. Equipment used in coal mines must also be closely monitored for faults that can cause sparks and trigger explosions.
Chemical leakage
Chemicals are frequently used to transform the ores from their natural state into usable commodities. Accidents occur when the chemicals are not securely stored and if miners do not follow safety procedures correctly. Miners working with these chemicals must also have adequate ventilation to prevent the risk of inhaling toxic fumes and dust which can cause long-term physical damage.
The training course is highly practical and hands-on, with a variety of challenging exercises and situations operating gas testing equipment. Upon successful completion of this course, each participant will receive a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment.
Course details
The Gas Test Atmospheres course features a mix of theory and practical assessment.
- Understanding the Legislative framework for gas detection.
- Understanding the different types of gas detectors.
- Understanding the role and functions of key components.
- Understanding and use of special features of gas detectors.
- How to interpret warnings, faults, and displayed messages on gas detector equipment.
- When is gas testing required in the workplace.
- Gas Testing Permits to work.
- Risk assessments and the need to consider atmospheric monitoring requirements during the risk assessment.
- The responsibilities of a supervisor in relation to gas atmosphere testing.
- An overview of the Confined Space Permit.
- Oxygen Deficiency, Oxygen Enrichment, Lower Explosive Levels, Carbon Monoxide. Hydrogen Sulphide, Methane and other gasses.
- Toxic & explosive gases ” their effects and safe exposure levels: TWA`s, STEL`s, IDLH`s.
- An overview of the air densities of common gasses.
- Risk management concepts / risk assessments.
- Human breathing principles.
- How to fill out gas testing log sheets.
- Maintaining your gas detector.
- Gas detector calibration bump testing requirements.
- Logging and maintaining gas detector records.
Course Duration: 5 hours
Course cost: Check with your local provider.
Course Outcomes: Statement of Attainment for MSAPMOHS217A – Gas Test AtmospheresGas Test Atmospheres training can also be conveniently delivered at your workplace, using your equipment (or ours), on-site by a Gas Test Atmospheres trainer. This greatly reduces disruption to your normal day-to-day operations and productivity. This training course will teach your employees to recognise when gas testing is required, how to conduct gas testing and how to determine whether the area can be entered and worked in safely.
As iMINCO is an information provider and not an RTO.
