15 November 2023         Blogs

To address the pressing concerns surrounding F-Gases, the European Union introduced the F-Gas Regulation 517/2014, which mandates a substantial 79% reduction in the use of HFCs between 2015 and 2030. With 2030 edging ever closer, this ambitious goal is on-track to be achieved through a phasedown approach, reducing the amount of HFCs available in the market and imposing stricter requirements for leak testing.

However, many businesses are still left wondering, what does it mean for me?

How does F-Gas Regulation 517/2014 affect my business?

If you manufacture, supply, use, install or service equipment containing F gases you must comply with legislation.

Here’s how these regulations affect your business:

1. Mandatory training requirements under F-Gas Regulation 517/2014

One of the most crucial aspects of the F-Gas Regulation is the requirement for all personnel and companies involved in handling, recovering, supplying, installing, manufacturing, maintaining, servicing, or owning equipment containing HFC refrigerants to be F-Gas certified. This means that all your employees who work with F-Gases must undergo specific training and obtain the necessary certifications. Without certified personnel, your business may not be in compliance with the law.

2. Impact on Day-to-Day Operations

If your business involves the use of equipment that contains F-Gases, such as refrigeration systems, air conditioning units, or fire protection systems, the regulations will affect your daily operations. You will need to ensure that trained and certified technicians handle tasks like installation, testing for leaks, general maintenance, and disposal or decommissioning. This could lead to changes in your workflow, staff training, and operational procedures.

3. Reporting and Record-Keeping for Businesses Using F-Gases

The F-Gas Regulation requires businesses to maintain detailed records of F-Gas use, including production, import, and export data within the EU. Compliance with these reporting requirements is essential to avoid potential fines and legal repercussions. It also means you need efficient systems in place for data collection and documentation.

4. Product Labelling for Items Containing Fluorinated Gases

Depending on the nature of your business and the products you deal with, you might be required to label certain products and equipment that contain F-Gases in accordance with the regulations. This ensures transparency and traceability in the supply chain.

5. Impact on Costs

Achieving compliance with F-Gas regulations may entail investing in employee training, equipment upgrades, and record-keeping systems. While these initial investments may increase operational costs, the long-term benefits include reduced emissions, environmental responsibility, and compliance with the law.

6. Environmental Responsibility

The primary goal of F-Gas regulations is to reduce and contain emissions of these potent greenhouse gases. By complying with these regulations, your business contributes to global efforts to combat climate change and minimise the environmental impact of F-Gases.

7. Non-Compliance with F-Gas Regulations Can Affect Market Access

In some cases, non-compliance with F-Gas regulations can affect your ability to access certain markets or participate in government contracts. Being in line with these regulations can enhance your business’s reputation and open up opportunities for collaboration and expansion.

In conclusion

F-Gas regulations have a direct impact on your business by necessitating employee training and certification, changing operational procedures, requiring data reporting and record-keeping, and promoting environmental responsibility. To ensure compliance and minimise disruption, it’s essential to stay informed about these regulations, invest in training and certification for your staff, and adapt your business practices to align with the requirements set by the F-Gas Regulation.

Further information on the regulations can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/fluorinated-gases-f-gases

   06 November 2023         Blogs

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), found in refrigeration, fire protection, air conditioning, and heat pump systems, have come under the spotlight due to their powerful greenhouse gas properties, exacerbating global warming. These fluorinated greenhouse gases, commonly known as F-Gases, are a family of compounds containing fluorine, and their regulation has recently taken centre stage in efforts to mitigate their impact on our planet.

About F-Gas Regulation 517/2014

To address the pressing concerns surrounding F-Gases, the European Union introduced the F-Gas Regulation 517/2014, which mandates a substantial 79% reduction in the use of HFCs between 2015 and 2030. This ambitious goal is achieved through a phasedown approach, reducing the amount of HFCs available in the market and imposing stricter requirements for leak testing. But perhaps one of the most crucial components of this regulation is the emphasis on training and certification for technical personnel and companies involved in working with F-Gases.

The overall aim of F-Gas is to reduce and contain emissions by using responsible refrigeration. The regulations make reference to:

• Better containment of F-gases in their applications
• Recovery of F-gases from products and equipment reaching their end of life
• Training and certification of technical personnel and businesses working with F-gases
• Reporting of production, import and export data
• Labelling of certain products and equipment containing those gases

With common HFCs like HFC 404A and HFC 134a in refrigeration systems, HFC 23 and HFC 227ea in fire protection systems, and HFC 404A and HFC 410A in air conditioning and heat pump systems, a wide range of industries are directly impacted by these regulations.

Whether you operate, service, or maintain equipment that contains these potent greenhouse gases, it’s vital to understand the implications of this legislation for your business and your role within it.

Further information on the regulations can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/fluorinated-gases-f-gases

These F-Gas regulations affect your business

Develop Training has recently seen a surge in F gas training requests, as employers are ensuring that their employees are undertaking this mandatory training requirement and they understand the impending changes and what they mean for their business.

Only trained technicians can carry out work on equipment containing F gases, including:

• installation
• testing for leaks
• general maintenance
• disposal or decommissioning when you no longer need the product

In this blog post, our F-Gas Trainer, Brandon Clark, delves into the world of F-Gases and answers some of the most frequently asked questions around F-Gas Regulation 517/2014.

Conclusion

At the heart of these regulations lies an essential component – the emphasis on training and certification for technical personnel and companies working with F-Gases. The goal is to ensure that those operating, servicing, or maintaining equipment containing F-Gases are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle these substances responsibly and safely.

This is where Develop Training steps in. With the surge in F-Gas training requests, we understand the increasing demand for education and expertise in this field. Our City & Guilds 2079-11 scheme F-Gas Cat 1 training course has been meticulously designed to provide your employees with the essential training and certification required to meet these stringent regulations.

The Cat 1 F gas training course equips participants with the essential knowledge and hands-on expertise needed to perform tasks involving the setup, servicing, upkeep, refrigerant recovery, and leakage inspection of stationary refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump equipment with a refrigerant charge exceeding 3kg or 6kg (in cases of hermetically sealed systems).

With Develop Training, you can be confident that your staff will be well-prepared to handle these obligations effectively.

F-Gas Cat 1 2079-11 training course

Develop offer the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the intricacies of F-Gases, ensuring compliance with the law and minimising the environmental impact of your operations. Our comprehensive 5 day F-Gas Cat 1 course is delivered by a time-served, fully qualified NVQ Level 3 refrigeration engineer and covers a wide array of topics, including installation, leak testing, general maintenance, and disposal or decommissioning of equipment containing F-Gases.

Choose Develop Training and equip your team with the knowledge and skills they need to meet the challenges of F-Gas regulations head-on.

It’s not just a requirement; it’s a step towards a greener, more sustainable future for your business and our planet.

Our locations

Training can be offered at our Derby, Swindon, Manchester, Linlithgow, Brentwood or York based centres or at a location of your choice.

Contact us

Contact us today on 0800 876 6708 or enquiries@developtraining.co.uk to book a place on a training course or enquire about a bespoke course at a location of your choice.

   01 November 2023         Blogs

Confined spaces present unique challenges and risks that require careful consideration and preparation. Whether you work in construction, manufacturing, utilities or any industry that involves confined spaces, it’s crucial to understand the potential hazards and safety measures to ensure a safe working environment.

In this blog post, we will explore seven essential things you should know about confined spaces and why it’s crucial for employers to understand confined space legislation and ensure employees receive proper training:

What is a Confined Space and how to define one

Before delving into the details, it’s essential to define what constitutes a confined space. As defined by the HSE, a confined space is “one which is both enclosed or largely enclosed and has a reasonably foreseeable specified risk to workers of:

• fire
• explosion
• loss of consciousness
• asphyxiation
• drowning

Examples include tanks, silos, tunnels, sewers, and even storage bins. These spaces can pose a threat due to their limited access, poor ventilation, and potential for hazardous materials or atmospheres.

1. Common Hazards in Confined Spaces

Understanding the hazards associated with confined spaces is paramount. Some of the most common dangers include:

1. Atmospheric Hazards: Confined spaces can contain toxic gases, flammable substances, or a lack of oxygen, all of which can be deadly.
2. Engulfment: Workers can be buried or submerged in materials such as grain, sand, or liquids.
3. Entrapment: Moving parts or equipment within the confined space can trap workers.
4. Physical Hazards: Limited visibility and tight spaces can lead to slips, trips, falls, or injuries from equipment.
5. Temperature Extremes: Confined spaces can have extreme temperatures, causing heat stress or hypothermia.

2. Confined Space Entry Permits and Procedures

Access to confined spaces that have a higher level of risk should be carefully controlled through a permit system. Before entry, a Confined Space Entry Permit should be issued, detailing the necessary safety measures, hazard assessments, and the personnel allowed inside. Proper training and communication are crucial in ensuring everyone understands their roles and responsibilities during confined space entry.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Workers entering confined spaces must wear appropriate PPE, which may include respirators, gas monitors, harnesses, helmets, and protective clothing. The choice of PPE should align with the identified hazards to provide maximum protection.

4. Ventilation and Air Quality Monitoring in Confined Spaces

Ventilation is essential to maintain safe atmospheric conditions inside a confined space. Adequate ventilation systems, along with continuous air quality monitoring, can help ensure that the air remains safe for workers. Gas detectors can warn of hazardous conditions, allowing workers to exit in case of danger.

5. Training and Emergency Response & Rescue from Confined Spaces

Proper training is key to preventing accidents in confined spaces. Workers should be trained in confined space entry procedures, emergency response plans, and the use of safety equipment. Additionally, a well-practiced emergency response plan should be in place to quickly rescue workers in distress.

6. Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Regular inspections and maintenance of confined spaces are crucial for identifying and addressing potential hazards. This includes checking equipment, testing the atmosphere, and ensuring that access points remain safe. Preventative maintenance reduces the likelihood of incidents and keeps workers safe.

7. Confined spaces legislation and training

The significance of training in confined spaces cannot be overstated. Training is not just important, but necessary under law.

The key duties of an employer are as follows:

To avoid entry into confined spaces wherever possible, if unavoidable, follow a safe system of work and put in adequate emergency arrangements before work starts.

To view HSE guidelines, follow this link.

At Develop Training, we believe that a well-trained workforce is the bedrock of workplace safety. Our tailored confined space training programmes equip your employees with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate confined spaces safely, ultimately reducing accidents and saving lives.

Remember, investing in training is an investment in your employees’ well-being and the overall success of your business.

Confined space training for all levels and requirements

Develop offers courses for those who need to enter, supervise or plan entry into a place designated as a confined space. Our courses cover low, medium and high risk confined spaces as well as emergency rescue and recovery of casualties.

View our full range of confined spaces courses here: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/training/utilities/confined-spaces/

Did you know we have a mobile confined space unit? Learn more

   17 October 2023         Blogs

On this month’s Meet the team blog, we’re introducing one of our electrical trainers, Mark Fear.

Career overview

Mark’s career journey began with studying Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Portsmouth, before he ventured into a role as an operative at Cadbury’s, where he worked for a total of six years. Deciding to swap chocolates for education, a shift in career led Mark to become a PE teacher, teaching both primary and secondary students. Later, his aspiration to become an engineer led him to undertake electrical training, before becoming a qualified electrician in 2013. Working as a domestic, commercial, and industrial electrician Mark has gained a wide array of electrical qualifications throughout his career.

Joining Develop

 Recognising an opportunity to combine his qualifications as an electrician with his teaching background, Mark joined Develop in March 2022. Keen to make a meaningful impact, Mark was eager to contribute to the electrical industry by passing on his knowledge and skills to aspiring electricians.

Mark explains, “Empowering the next generation with knowledge is the spark that lights the path to a brighter future in any field. I want to help inspire those working in the LV electrical field that it’s not only the technical know-how that they need but also the dedication and commitment to excel in an industry where precision and safety are paramount.”

Current role and responsibilities

Over the past 18 months, Mark has been instrumental in teaching a range of courses, including Authorised Person (AP) Low Voltage, 18^th Edition IET Wiring Regulations BS7671 (2nd Amendment), 2391 City and Guilds Testing and Inspection, GNEM 2 and GNEM 4, C & G Electrical Vehicle Charging, and C & G In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment (PAT Testing).

Bridging experience and quality training

Mark’s dual experience as a teacher and a qualified electrician is invaluable in his role and sets him apart as a Trainer. Mark understands first-hands that simply imparting knowledge isn’t enough, instead he utilises a range of engaging and hands-on teaching methods to transform the learning process and ensures delegates are able to actively try their hand at electrical activities.

Mark’s classes are a dynamic blend of traditional teaching and practical application. Delegates are not merely passive observers but active participants in their learning. The typical structure of his sessions involves a stimulating 30-40 minutes of teacher-led presentations, where he imparts a theoretical understanding of the subject matter. This is followed by the practical element of the training whereby delegates have the opportunity to roll up their sleeves, grab their tools, and put their newfound knowledge into action.

It’s here that theory becomes reality, where concepts become skills, and where Mark’s guidance becomes invaluable. This practical approach not only solidifies the learning but also instills a profound sense of confidence in his delegates, knowing that they are well-prepared to excel in their role when they return back to their day job.

Notable achievements

As a testament to his teaching, Mark was particularly pleased recently when one of his delegates announced that he had requested to join the course based on recommendations from three colleagues who had previously completed training with Mark. This in itself speaks volumes about the quality of teaching he provides.

Embracing green technologies

 Mark is passionate about integrating renewables into electrical training and qualifications. He believes it’s crucial for the new generation of electricians to be well-versed in new green technologies, as they play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future for the trade industry.

Mark explains,

The electrical industry is at a crossroads, with the global shift towards sustainability and renewable energy sources becoming increasingly imperative. The new generation of electricians must be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate this evolving terrain.

It’s no longer sufficient for them to be well-versed only in traditional electrical systems; they must also become proficient in harnessing the potential of green technologies. They also need to do this if they want to stay at the forefront of their career and future-proof their skill set.”

He continues,

I’m really looking forward to the next few years at Develop as we are soon going to be launching our own Renewable Energies division and this will mean training programmes in areas such as Solar PV, Battery Energy Storage Systems, Air Source Heat Pumps and Thermal Stores. An exciting time for certain!”

   10 October 2023         Blogs

Anyone, in any industry, can be exposed to working in confined spaces – sometimes without even realising it. It’s important to mitigate the risks associated with confined spaces, which can be fatal.

Here’s our 20-point confined space entry checklist for producing a safe system of work in such conditions:

Click here to download as a pdf

1. Supervision in confined spaces

The degree of supervision should be based on the findings of the risk assessment. In some cases an employer might simply instruct an employee how to do the work and then periodically check that all is well. For example if the work is routine, the precautions straightforward, and all the arrangements for safety can be properly controlled by the person carrying out the work. It is more likely that the risk assessment will identify a level of risk that requires the appointment of a competent person to supervise the work and who may need to remain present while the work is being undertaken.

It will be the supervisor’s role to ensure that the permit-to-work system, where applicable, operates properly, the necessary safety precautions are taken, and that anyone in the vicinity of the confined space is informed of the work being done.

Do you supervise work in confined spaces? Develop offer a number of confined space training courses specifically for those who supervise work.

2. Competence for confined space working

Workers must have adequate training and experience in the particular work involved to be competent to work safely in a confined space. Training standards must be appropriate to the task, and to the individual’s roles and responsibilities, so that work can be carried out safely. Where the risk assessment indicates that properly trained individuals can work for periods without supervision, you should check that they are competent to follow the established safe system of work and have been provided with adequate information and instruction about the work to be done.

Individual health assessments should be considered for those areas that have a higher risk attached to the confined space or the efforts required to enter and work in them.

Those that are managing the work in confined spaces must also be trained in the dangers of confined working and the measures to be taken to reduce the risk to those working in them.

3. Communications

An adequate communication system must be in place and should enable communication:
(a) between those inside the confined space;

(b) between those inside the confined space and those outside;

(c) to summon help in case of emergency.

Whatever system is used, and it can be based on speech, tugs on a rope, the telephone, radio etc, all messages should be able to be communicated easily, rapidly and unambiguously between relevant people.

Consider whether the communication methods are appropriate for any workers wearing breathing apparatus. The communication system should also cover the need for those outside the space to raise the alarm and set in motion emergency rescue procedures.

Equipment such as telephones and radios should be protected so that they do not present a source of ignition where there is a risk of flammable or potentially explosive atmospheres.

Those that are managing the work in confined spaces must also be trained in the dangers of confined working and the measures to be taken to reduce the risk to those working in them.

4. Testing/monitoring the atmosphere in a confined space

Prior to entry, the atmosphere within a confined space should be tested to check the oxygen concentration or for the presence of hazardous gas, fume or vapour. Testing should be carried out where knowledge of the confined space (e.g. from information about its previous contents or chemicals used in a previous activity in the space) indicates that the atmosphere might be contaminated or to any extent unsafe to breathe, or where any doubt exists as to the condition of the atmosphere. Testing should also be carried out if the atmosphere was known to be contaminated previously, was ventilated as a consequence, and needed to be tested to check the result.

5. Gas purging in confined spaces

Where the risk assessment has identified the presence or possible presence of flammable or toxic gases or vapours, there may be a need to purge the gas or vapour from the confined space. This can be done with air or an inert gas where toxic contaminants are present, but with inert gas only where there are flammable contaminants.

You can only use inert gas for purging flammable gas or vapour because any purging with air could produce a flammable mixture within the confined space. Where purging has been carried out, the atmosphere must be tested to check that purging has been effective, and that it is safe to breathe, before allowing people to enter.

6. Ventilation whilst working in confined spaces

Some confined spaces require mechanical ventilation to provide sufficient fresh air to replace the oxygen that is being used up by people working in the space, and to dilute and remove gas, fume or vapour produced by the work. This can be done by using a blower fan and trunking and/or an exhaust fan or ejector and trunking (provided that there is an adequate supply of fresh air to replace the used air).

Fresh air should be drawn from a point where it is not contaminated either by used air or other pollutants. Never introduce additional oxygen into a confined space to ‘sweeten’ the air as this can lead to oxygen enrichment in the atmosphere that can render certain substances (e.g. grease) liable to spontaneous combustion, and will greatly increase the combustibility of other materials. Oxygen above the normal concentration in air may also have a toxic effect if inhaled.

7. Removal of residues – cleaning

Cleaning or removal of residues is often the purpose of confined space work. In some cases residues will need to be removed to allow other work to be undertaken safely. Appropriate measures should be taken where risks from the residues are identified.

For example, dangerous substances (such as hazardous gas, fume or vapour) can be released when residues are disturbed or, particularly, when heat is applied to them. The measures might include the use of powered ventilation equipment, specially protected electrical equipment for use in hazardous atmospheres, respiratory protective equipment and atmospheric monitoring. The cleaning or removal process might need to be repeated to ensure that all residues have been removed, and may need to deal with residues trapped in sludge, scale or other deposits, brickwork, or behind loose linings, in liquid traps, in joints in vessels, in pipe bends, or in other places where removal is difficult.

8. Isolation from gases, liquids and flowing materials

Confined spaces should be securely isolated from ingress of substances that could pose a risk to those working within the space. An effective method is to disconnect the confined space completely from every item of plant either by removing a section of pipe or duct or by inserting blanks.

If blanks are used, the spectacle type with one lens solid and the other a ring makes checking easier. When disconnection cannot be done in this way one alternative is a suitable, reliable valve that is locked shut, providing there is no possibility of it allowing anything to pass through when locked, or of being unlocked when people are inside the confined space.

9. Isolation from mechanical and electrical equipment

Some confined spaces contain electrical and mechanical equipment with power supplied from outside the space. Unless the risk assessment specifically enables the system of work to allow power to remain on, either for the purposes of the task being undertaken or as vital services (ie lighting, vital communications, fire fighting, pumping where flooding is a risk, or cables distributing power to other areas), the power should be disconnected, separated from the equipment, and a check made to ensure isolation has been effective.

 10. Selection and use of suitable equipment

Any equipment provided for use in a confined space must be suitable for the purpose. Where there is a risk of a flammable gas seeping into a confined space and which could be ignited by electrical sources (eg a portable hand lamp), specially protected electrical equipment should be used, for example a lamp certified for use in explosive atmospheres.

Note that specially designed low-voltage portable lights, while offering protection against electrocution, could still present ignition sources and are not in themselves safer in flammable or potentially explosive atmospheres.

All equipment should be carefully selected bearing in mind the conditions and risks where it will be used. Earthing should be considered to prevent static charge build-up. In addition to isolation, mechanical equipment may need to be secured against free rotation, as people may tread or lean on it, and risk trapping or falling.

11. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) & Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)

So far as reasonably practicable you should ensure that a confined space is safe to work in without the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) and respiratory protective equipment (RPE). PPE and RPE should be a last resort, except for confined space rescue work (including the work of the emergency services). This is because its use can make movement more difficult, it can add to the effects of hot temperature, and can be heavy.

Your confined space risk assessment may identify the need for PPE and RPE, in which case it should be suitable and should be provided and used by those entering and working in confined spaces. Such equipment is in addition to engineering controls and safe systems of work.

12. Portable gas cylinders and internal combustion engines

Never use petrol-fuelled internal combustion engines in confined spaces because of the fumes they produce and the ease with which petrol vapour ignites. Gas cylinders should not normally be used within a confined space unless special precautions are taken.

Portable gas cylinders (for heat, power or light), and diesel-fuelled internal combustion engines are nearly as hazardous as petrol-fuelled engines and are inappropriate unless exceptional precautions are taken.

13. Gas supplied by hoses and pipes

The use of pipes and hoses for conveying oxygen or flammable gases into a confined space should be controlled to minimise the risks. It is important that at the end of every working period, other than during short interruptions, the supply valves for pipes and hoses should be securely closed before the pipes and hoses are withdrawn from the confined space to a place that is well ventilated.

Where pipes and hoses cannot be removed, they should be disconnected from the gas supply at a point outside the confined space and their contents safely vented.

14. Access and egress in confined spaces

You should provide a safe way in and out of the confined space. Wherever possible, allow quick, unobstructed and ready access. The means of escape must be suitable for use by the individual who enters the confined space so that they can quickly escape in an emergency.

Suitable means to prevent access should be in place when there is no need for anybody to work in the confined space.

The safe system of work should ensure that everyone has left the confined space during ‘boxing-up’ operations, particularly when the space is complicated and extensive (for example in boilers, cableways and culverts where there can be numerous entry/exit points).

15. Fire prevention

Wherever possible, flammable and combustible materials should not be stored in confined spaces that have not been specifically created or allocated for that purpose. If they accumulate as a result of work they should be removed as soon as possible and before they begin to create a risk.

Where flammable materials need to be located in a confined space, the quantity of the material should be kept to a minimum. In most cases flammable materials should not be stored in confined spaces. However, there may be special cases where this is necessary, for example in tunnelling. In these cases they should be stored in suitable fire-resistant containers.

If there is a risk of flammable or potentially explosive atmospheres, take actions to eliminate the risk such as removal by cleaning, effective use of thorough ventilation, and control of sources of ignition.

16. Lighting in confined spaces

Adequate and suitable lighting, including emergency lighting, should be provided. For example, the lighting should be specially protected if used where flammable or potentially explosive atmospheres are likely to occur. Other gases may be present that could break down thermally on the unprotected hot surfaces of a lighting system and produce other toxic products.

Lighting may need to be protected against knocks (e.g. by a wire cage), and/or be waterproof. Where water is present in the space, suitable plug/socket connectors capable of withstanding wet or damp conditions should be used and protected by residual current devices (RCDs).

The position of lighting may also be important, for example to give ample clearance for work or rescue to be carried out unobstructed.

17. Static electricity

Exclude static discharges and all sources of ignition if there is a risk of a flammable or explosive atmosphere in the confined space. All conducting items, such as steel trunking and airlines, should be bonded and effectively earthed. If cleaning operations are to be carried out, assess the risks posed by the use or presence of high-resistivity materials (such as synthetic plastics) in and adjacent to the confined space.

Even poor choice of clothing and PPE may lead to a build of static electricity in some cases.

18. Generators, Compressors and Smoking

The results of the risk assessment may indicate that it is necessary to set an exclusion area for equipment and smoking to a suitable distance beyond the confined space. For example, where there is a risk of explosion, or to stop any fumes and vapours from entering the confined space from the equipment.

19. Emergencies & rescue in confined spaces

The arrangements for emergency rescue, required under regulation 5 of the Confined Spaces Regulations, must be suitable and sufficient. If necessary, equipment to enable resuscitation procedures to be carried out should be provided. The arrangements should be in place before any person enters or works in a confined space.

A major cause of death and injury in confined spaces incidents is due to ill-conceived attempts to save others who have collapsed or ceased to respond. You should not enter a confined space without ensuring you will not also be affected.

Rescues need to be undertaken by trained and sufficiently equipped individuals to the environment they are entering. All those undertaking a rescue must also adhere to any risk assessments and safe systems of work that are in place for the rescue of persons who are unable to extricate themselves.

Additional first aid training for the use in resuscitation and defibrillating equipment may also need to be considered.

Need training?

Emergency rescue & recovery of casualties training course

20. Limited working time

There may be a need to limit the time period that individuals are allowed to work in a confined space, for example where RPE is used, or under extreme conditions of temperature and humidity, or if the confined space is so small that movement is severely restricted.

For a large confined space and multiple entries, a logging or tally system may be necessary to check everyone in and out and to control duration of entry. There may be additional risks to consider when entry to a confined space is required. These could include the integrity of the confined space (e.g. corroded structure, cold temperatures, loss of rigidity when a tank is drained, trip hazards, noise etc). While these are not specific risks or limited to confined spaces, they should still be considered as part of the general risk assessment and tackled as far as reasonably practicable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this 20-point confined space safe system of work checklist underscores the critical importance of implementing rigorous safety measures when working within confined spaces, regardless of the industry involved.

For organisations seeking to ensure their employees are well-prepared and trained to work safely in confined spaces, partnering with Develop Training can be a valuable solution.

Click here to download this checklist as a pdf.

Specialised confined space training programmes

Develop offers a range of specialised confined spaces training programmes designed to address the specific needs and challenges of confined space work. Our expert Trainers and wide range of low, medium, high risk and rescue courses provide employees with the knowledge and skills required to navigate the complexities of confined spaces safely and efficiently.

Low/medium/high risk and rescue confined space training courses

Whether it’s confined space training in risk assessment, proper equipment use, emergency response procedures, or compliance with safety regulations, or a customised programme that meets your organisation’s unique requirements, by choosing Develop as your training provider, you can empower your workforce with the competence and confidence needed to work in confined spaces while minimising risks and ensuring a safer work environment.

View all confined space training courses

Click here to view our full range of confined spaces training courses.

Further information on confined spaces training and legislative requirements can be found in The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997.

On-site confined spaces training

We have confined space training facilities at our York, Derby and Swindon training centres as well as a small mobile trailer and a large mobile confined space truck. Click here to learn more about our mobile confined spaces truck.

   29 September 2023         Blogs

On this month’s Meet the Team blog, we’re introducing our Senior Utilities Training Officer, Jim Donnelly.

Jim’s career journey began straight after leaving school when he joined a local authority to work within the construction field. He later joined British Gas as a Distribution Trainee, where he climbed the career ladder to take on several different roles including Assistant Distribution Fitter and Distribution Fitter during his 20 years with the company.

A long career in the gas industry

During his two decades, Jim worked on a number of large-scale construction projects as well as a series of emergency works and schemes. By the end of his time there he was working as a Main Layer.

Looking for a new challenge, Jim joined Develop back in July 2005 as a Trainee Trainer and has recently celebrated his 18-year anniversary with the company.

After taking on a range of managerial roles within the business, Jim is now a Senior Training Officer who provides compliance training for professionals working in the gas industry. His main areas of expertise are gas distribution, service laying and main laying. However, he also teaches a range of health & safety courses, and IOSH training, including the IOSH Managing Safely (IOSHMS) and IOSH Working Safely (IOSHWS) courses.

Alongside teaching, he also offers support to other trainers in the business, as well as the Utilities Delivery Manager, and he is responsible for working with delegates to help them build their portfolios.

Whilst Jim is based primarily at Develop’s training centre in Derby, his work takes him on the road to visit locations throughout the UK and he has recently spent a lot of time working on projects in Northern Ireland.

Training Terrace

Jim was heavily involved in the development of Develop’s Joint Emergency Training Set (JETSET), Training Terrace, a fully to-scale artificial street designed to safely recreate emergency response scenarios. Training Terrace allows delegates to simulate the experience of what it’s like to respond to a gas leak in a realistic yet secure environment and is located at our York centre.

An integral part of the Training Terrace project alongside Darren Hill and Daryll Garavan, Jim was able to share his knowledge and expertise and met with architects and designers to provide insight on what the needs of the gas industry were and how Develop could meet them with the new training facility.  

Highlights at Develop

Jim believes that his extensive career background allows him to relate to delegates when sharing his own life experiences and he enjoys reflecting on some of his highlights at the company to date.

Jim expands upon the importance of his background, explaining, “In the training world, establishing a genuine connection with the delegates by drawing from one’s own real-life experiences is truly invaluable. When they realise that I’ve walked the same path and have hands-on experience ‘in the trenches,’ so to speak, it garners a deep respect for my expertise. This connection not only facilitates the training process but also encourages delegates to pose questions they might hesitate to ask someone who hasn’t undergone the same experiences on the job.”

During the first few years at Develop, Jim delivered training to young offender students who could benefit from a new start with a career in the industry. A few years later, Jim was attending a trade show when he was approached by a man that he did not immediately recognise, who shook Jim’s hand and introduced himself. The man turned out to be one of the students that Jim had trained all those years ago and inspired by Jim’s training, the man became greatly interested in the gas industry, and went on to start his own business.

Worldwide travel

Another highlight is one of Jim’s favourite projects that he worked on in 2014. He was asked to join a project team on a visit to Israel where he worked with Pazgas, an energy company that markets liquid petroleum gas (LPG) in the country.

The project allowed him to work closely with employees at the company to identify their training needs and on return to the UK he worked with an external trainer to devise a training plan and materials that could be delivered company wide. Certainly an interesting and unique experience to be remembered!

Further resources

Visit our Resource Centre for a range of materials to help you plan and manage your utility training needs.

Visit our Gas Distribution page to see our full range of gas training courses.

   11 September 2023         Blogs

Undertaking work on roadways and public pavements involves inherent risks that can impact both the public and workers. Proper management and precautions are crucial to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Failure to manage street works effectively can lead to serious road traffic collisions, endanger pedestrians, and cause damage to underground services. 

The consequences of these factors can be fatal, especially when working on busier roads where the risk is heightened. The obstruction of highways poses significant risks, leading to specific legislation governing street works and rigorous enforcement measures. Moreover, workers are exposed to additional hazards stemming from the use of machinery, chemicals, hot bitumen, and other elements, requiring utmost caution and adherence to safety protocols.

This blog post explores potential problems during street works and highlights the necessary precautions that contractors should take.

A Costly Incident: A Prominent Telecommunications Company’s Street Works Breach

A real-world case involving a leading telecommunications company’s subcontractor serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of mismanaged street works. The failure to properly signpost and guard the work area and inappropriate traffic management methods resulted in significant risks to pedestrians, motorists, and cyclists. Despite numerous requests to address the issues, the company’s slow response led to prosecution by Transport for London (TfL). The company pleaded guilty to operating unsafe street works, resulting in a record-breaking fine and emphasised the importance of better communication and compliance.

Steps to Ensure Safe Street Works

All organisation’s that arrange street works, play a crucial role in ensuring safety and compliance. By taking proactive measures and working with competent contractors, organisation’s can mitigate risks and contribute to a safer working environment.

Here are some essential steps to consider:

Tip 1: Verify Contractor Competence

Before hiring a contractor, ensure they will have a qualified street works operative present on-site at all times during the project. Additionally, verify that the company has a qualified street works supervisor overseeing the works. These qualifications demonstrate the contractor’s commitment to safety and professionalism.

Tip 2: Request a Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan

Prior to commencing the work, request a traffic management plan from your contractor. This plan should be based on the Chapter 8 Traffic Signs Manual, which outlines best practices for managing traffic during street works. If your project is significant, consider involving a separate designer specialising in traffic management for larger scale works.

Tip 3: Review Risk Assessments and Method Statements

Thoroughly review the risk assessment and method statement provided by your contractor. These documents should address all potential hazards and outline specific measures to mitigate them. Ensure that the contractor has a solid plan to handle risks related to machinery, chemicals, hot bitumen, and other critical factors.

Conclusion: Prioritising Safety in Street Works

In conclusion, street works present significant challenges and risks that demand diligent management and adherence to safety guidelines. As a client, your role in choosing competent contractors and ensuring proper safety measures are in place is crucial.

By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can contribute to a safer and more compliant street works project.

Always remember that safety should be the top priority for any work involving public spaces.

New Roads & Street Works (NRSWA) training

To view Develop’s full range of New Roads and Street Works (NRSWA) training please visit: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/training/utilities/street-works/

Training with a difference – attend a street works training course at our York centre and you’ll carry out your practical training & assessment on a fully-to-scale artificial street. Find out more here: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/training-terrace-receives-rave-reviews-from-delegates/

Further resources

Visit our Resource Centre for a range of materials to help you plan and manage your street works training.

   30 August 2023         Blogs

In this month’s meet the team blog, we’re shining the spotlight on our Utility Trainer, Darren Hill.

Establishing a career in the utilities industry

Darren started his working life as a self-confessed ‘jack-of-all-trades’ working in a range of different roles and environments including a suit shop and butchers as well as repairing pool tables and delivering materials for an engineering company.

He then joined the UK’s largest gas distribution network, Cadent, where he specialised in treating gas leaks in his role as Emergency Response Team Leader. Throughout his 20-year long career with the network, Darren gained experience in numerous aspects of the gas and utilities industry, which he is now able to draw upon when teaching.

However, as Darren’s responsibilities grew in this job, he was often challenged with completing long hours and even 24-hour shifts, which ultimately inspired him to make a change.

At this stage, Darren was living in Nottingham, which happened to only be a 30-minute drive from Develop’s Derby training centre. It was here that he had previously successfully achieved his gas qualifications before joining the Develop team in August 2018.

Life at Develop

Darren has now been based at Develop’s Derby centre for over five years as a Utility Trainer, working within a range of utility sectors, including gas and street works.

Whilst predominantly based in Derby, Darren often finds himself travelling to a range of different training centres located around the UK, from Northern Ireland, to York, to Brentwood – wherever he is needed!

He teaches across a number of Network Construction Gas (NCO) courses such as Service Laying and Main Laying, as well as NRSWA Street Works and Abrasive Wheels – Grinders and Cut-off Saws (AWGC) training.

Darren’s role also means that he is also responsible for assessing delegates’ portfolios and supporting them to achieve their qualifications. This can often mean that Darren takes them from the start of their journey when they complete their initial qualification through to when they return and take additional courses to add to their skills.

With Darren’s decades of experience in the field, delegates receive training direct from somebody who has been in the real-life scenarios that he’s teaching others about and has first-hand knowledge of the challenges that delegates face.

For example, his time dealing with emergency situations as an Emergency Response Team Leader at Cadent now allows him to give back to his delegates and share his knowledge and experience of working in high pressured environments.

Utility industry experience

Having a relatable mentor with a strong background in the field reassures delegates that they can ask someone for advice that truly understands the environment they work in and the challenges they may experience since he has been ‘on the tools’ himself.

In particular, Darren works closely with Northern Gas Networks (NGN) to provide bespoke Emergency Response Training for staff at the company, which delivers gas to 2.7m homes and businesses in the North East, Northern Cumbria and much of Yorkshire.

Due to Darren’s experience, he was invited to provide insight and advice during the development of Training Terrace – Develop’s fully to-scale artificial street, which was unveiled at the refurbished York centre earlier this year.

Working alongside Daryll Garavan and Jim Donnelly, Darren gave invaluable guidance from a trainer’s perspective as well as being able to draw upon his experience in his previous role to input into the design of the facility, which has been built to safely recreate emergency response scenarios.

Proudest moments

One of Darren’s key personal highlights was achieving his Level 3 Training Assessment Quality Assurance (TAQA) qualification, a merit that felt long awaited after having worked in the industry for so many years. After putting it off to begin with, his many years of experience made him a natural fit to guide new generations.

He says that he genuinely enjoys coming into work every day, bringing a fun but focused take on gas utilities training and giving back to the industry by training the workforce of the future.

As a trainer, Darren is also able to find a sense of accomplishment in the success of others and enjoys seeing delegates who have completed initial qualifications with him return to Develop to request his expertise as they take their next step in their career development.

Further resources

Visit our Resource Centre for a range of materials to help you plan and manage your utility training needs.

Visit our Gas Distribution page to see our full range of upstream gas training courses.

   18 June 2023         Blogs

In this month’s meet the team blog, we’re introducing Dan Sutherland, our Senior Water Systems & Legionella Lecturer.

Entering into the legionella risk sector

After starting his career in sales and customer-facing roles, Dan developed a variety of transferable skills that propelled him into the legionella risk sector. Working in the industry at various water hygiene and treatment companies and training for over 17 years to date, Dan has gained expertise in training / assessing and conducting legionella risk assessments in a number of different environments. In risk assessment, his experience led him to work in progressingly more complex and high risk environments involving commercial hot and cold water systems, spa pools systems, vehicle wash systems and other manufacturing systems. Notably, Dan completed the legionella risk assessment of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships complex and Gleneagles golf resort.

Throughout his career, Dan has always aspired to be a trainer and pass on his knowledge to others, by sharing examples of his own experiences in the industry.

Life at Develop

Dan joined Develop in 2015 and has been based in Swindon — a place he argues is ‘most famous for the ‘Magic Roundabout’, five mini-roundabouts around a large roundabout where unfortunately I’m one of many who have had a ding!’. As well as appreciating the green space and lack of traffic whilst living in Swindon, Dan is especially fond of only being a three-mile drive away from the Develop local office.

Demonstrating a wealth of skills and experience, Dan has been a valued member of the legionella / water system senior team for eight years. In his role, Dan works with the Cross Industry Group Training Manager, Kate Denial, to support the delivery of all Develop’s legionella/water systems training programmes. His day-to-day duties include delivering training and assessments as well as writing and developing course materials, which allows him to share his skills, knowledge and real-life experiences first-hand with delegates.

Dan is just about to release a further course on legionella risk assessment of hot and cold water systems where the focus this time is compliance.

Outside of his daily tasks, Dan has also featured in a creative production where he worked with a professional videographer to create a 20-minute video regarding practical advice on conducting risk assessments in the legionella industry. He says that seeing and hearing yourself on screen is definitely an experience he won’t forget but a great one that allowed him to share the skills and expertise that he’s developed over the years. 

How success is measured

As a testament to his continuous development and experience, Dan has now progressed to become the Senior Trainer for the Cross Industry division. When asked how he measures his success, Dan cites the look and delivery format of newer material, his unique skills he brings to the mix and says that he finds a sense of accomplishment from seeing the increase in knowledge, understanding, clarity and impact his style has.

Dan explains, “I’ve faced various challenges during my career but I like to take a positive attitude and use my experiences as a way to build my skills and train delegates.”

A testament to Dan’s success as a trainer, can be seen in the feedback that he receives from delegates. One delegate who recently sat Develop’s Role of the Responsible Person course, posted the following feedback on Develop’s LinkedIn, “I really enjoyed the legionella course this week with Develop. Dan, the trainer, was excellent, really knows the subject and presented the course in a relaxed and engaging manner. It’s always good to refresh your knowledge and reinforce what you already know.”

Water Systems & Legionella training

To view Develop’s full range of water systems and Legionella training visit: Water Systems & Legionella – Develop Training

To find out more about our two-day course on Legionella Risk Assessment of Hot and Cold Water Systems (Practice) (WS7), visit: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/courses/water-systems-and-legionella/legionella-control/risk-assessment-hot-and-cold-water-systems-practice/

Further resources

Visit our Resource Centre for a range of materials to help you plan and manage your water systems and legionella training needs.

   14 June 2023        Blogs

Advances and processes are constantly evolving across many of the industries that Develop operates in, including utilities and construction, defence, healthcare, facilities management, and telecommunication. Increasingly, new technologies are emerging and ways of working are changing due to advancements in AI, technology and the environment post-Covid. To keep up with these changes, skilled professionals need to embrace a continuous learning culture and that’s where Develop can help.

We offer a range of different training methods including in-person, virtual classroom, e-learning and blended learning, and in 2023 alone we have already provided a wide range of training solutions to over 16,000 delegates.

To further enhance our offering, Develop recently introduced a series of digital e-learning programmes accessed via a learning management system (LMS) called LEDA. The initial set of 64 e-learning courses is designed to focus on crucial areas such as team development, leadership & management, IOSH, and a range of general health & safety courses from manual handling to fire safety awareness.

In this blog we explore the four main learning methods and the pros and cons of each. So whether you’re interested in virtual classrooms, in-person training, e-learning, or blended learning, our blog post will provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about your learning journey.

In-person learning

Traditional in-person courses allow delegates to meet trainers in a physical learning environment, whether that’s a classroom or on-site and individually or as part of a wider group. This style of learning is particularly suited to social and hands-on learners as they can interact with other people, share ideas and actively work through problems in a practical and communitive way.

In this format, delegates can receive immediate feedback from trainers and peers. They can also feel motivated by a physical sense of community and use this as an opportunity to build relationships with those around them.

Given the hands-on nature of work in the various industries that we provide training for, in-person education is often a necessity as delegates will need to operate equipment and machinery, sometimes under close supervision. For example, several one day courses that we offer such as Utility Excavation (Category 2), as well as NRSWA Reassessment (NRSWA R1) and (NRSWA R2) will require practical-hands on learning where trainers will teach delegates the correct methodology and how to operate machinery safely to prevent accident and injury.

In-person learning can be challenged by distractions from peers and made more difficult by a lack of flexibility due to timetables and the logistics of organising locations and schedules, although Develop makes this much simpler with a variety of options including bespoke and on-site training.

Virtual classroom

Through virtual classes delegates can experience the same training as an in-person classroom environment with the added flexibility of being able to attend from anywhere in the country.

Virtual classrooms are led by our expert trainers, facilitated using industry-leading platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom — and carefully designed to ensure that no significant elements of a ‘physical’ classroom environment are lost.

An additional benefit of virtual classes is heightened convenience and accessibility, and delegates don’t have to travel or commit to accommodation costs.

This form of learning relies heavily on technology and a reliable internet connection from all parties. Additionally, trainers need to ensure that despite physical challenges, all delegates are actively engaged. On longer courses, this can be ensured by trainers providing frequent feedback on delegates work, creating an environment that provokes engaging discussions and giving delegates the opportunity to comment on how their training could be tailored to best suit their needs.

This style of learning also benefits employers by offering a cost-effective method of training that can be delivered from anywhere, meaning that employees don’t need to take extensive periods of time away from work in order to complete qualifications.

e-learning

Digital e-learning allows individuals to learn at the location, time and pace of their choice, often at a cost-effective price point. Additionally, due to the accessible nature of course materials, many industry professionals believe that online learning has made it easier to stay up to date with the latest industry trends. Although e-learning is flexible, this method risks the interruption of technical difficulties.

At Develop, our e-learning LEDA platform has been developed by industry professionals to provide high-quality training courses. For employers, the e-learning platform could be used on its own or alongside our in-person and blended training programmes to supplement your employees’ learning experience and create a full-circle culture of learning.

Importantly, through the LEDA e-Learning system, employers can stay up to date with delegates, keep track of progress, better understand knowledge gaps and development opportunities and evidence commitment to employee development.

To find out more about LEDA, please visit: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/develop-launches-innovative-elearning-courses-to-meet-diverse-training-needs/

Blended learning

Blended learning uses a mix of in-person and online techniques to deliver training. This style of learning can be tailored for each course, meaning that the most effective methods are included. This can include delegates benefiting from theoretical knowledge being delivered virtually or via e-learning as well as attending practical in-person training to bolster and reinforce their learning — leading to enhanced long term knowledge retention.

Whilst many of Develop’s delegates don’t work in a hybrid environment this learning style mirrors hybrid working, in this case delegates will benefit from hybrid training delivered virtually and physically on site. The Office for National Statistics suggests that 52% of hybrid workers said that working in a hybrid manner results in quicker completion of work, 52% stated there are fewer distractions and 47% reported improved well-being. With this is in mind a hybrid learning style could be a suitable option for delegates, particularly where courses include practical assessments such as handling machinery or on-site training as well as learning theory.

Finding the ideal learning technique

Develop understands that everyone learns differently. That’s why it offers a variety of training formats to meet the individual needs of delegates. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, with the vast number of courses available through our LEDA platform as well as those delivered via in-person learning, virtual classroom, e-learning and blended learning, employers can discover which learning style will be most appropriate for their employees and suit business needs in line with their budget and time allocation.