Train to gain

25 September, 2014

The PSSR (S.I. 2000 No.128) affect both suppliers and end-users of compressed air systems. Two provisions include the need for the user to have a written scheme of examination and as a result of this, the ability to carry out an examination of the compressed air system.

To cover both provisions BCAS offers a range of courses; a one-day workshop, a five-day residential course and now, a new refresher course to maintain certification with BCAS.

For the written scheme, the one-day workshop looks at the elements necessary for consideration in the production of the scheme. The workshop provides background of the PSSR and related standards and codes of practice, detailing the knowledge and understanding required as a provider of a written scheme.

Those attending receive a manual with the current advice on written schemes as well as a BCAS written scheme template, which can be incorporated into company paperwork. A certificate of attendance is issued at the completion of the workshop.

The examination element is catered for by a five-day residential course. It provides both knowledge-based and practical ‘hands-on’ modules, which include; understanding of compressed air systems and of the PSSR and related standards, appreciation of non-destructive examination techniques and demonstrating practical skills in the testing of relevant safety related devices.

This course has been run very successfully since 1995. As a result of comments received, BCAS has now aligned itself with other industries that offer competence-based courses and has introduced a refresher course for all of those who currently hold certificates.

The one-day refresher course provides updates on the current PSSR and related standards and codes of practice, contributing to the knowledge and understanding required in the role of examiner.

This seeks to identify practices developed by applying the skills learned from the original course. A key requirement of the course is that all those attending bring their own test equipment. The test equipment required will be to cover pressure vessel material thickness as well as safety valve and pressure gauge testing devices. Each type of test equipment is required to have current calibration certificates.

As well as assessing the capabilities of those on the course it also provides the opportunity to compare the differing makes and models of equipment and the sharing of experiences.

BCAS introduced time-limited certificates for three years in May 2008. All those holding such certificates, including those issued prior to May 2008, are being contacted to inform them of the need to attend the refresher course in order to maintain the certification with BCAS.

For further information about the range of training courses offered by BCAS, visit the website at www.bcas.org.uk.