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About Detection of Buried Services for Construction (CAT and Genny)

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Underground Services Detection – Face-to-Face Training

Course Information

This practical, classroom-based course is designed for anyone involved in excavation or surveying on construction sites where detecting underground services is critical. It is ideal for:

  • Ground survey teams
  • Utility repair and installation specialists
  • Groundworks operatives
  • Supervisors and managers overseeing such operations
  • Construction operatives responsible for service detection before commencing work
  • Those requiring refresher training

Course Overview

The training focuses on the safe and effective use of the CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) and Genny (Signal Generator). It also covers techniques for locating underground pipes using flexible trace wires and sondes, including surface and foul drainage systems.

Equipment Requirements
Participants should bring a hi-vis vest or jacket, or full site PPE if the course is held on an active construction site.

Key Course Details

Course Logistics

Duration: Half day

Location: Delivered on-site nationwide

Dates: Call 01623 287830

Minimum numbers:  1+ (charged at a day rate)

Maximum numbers: 10 classroom

Course Details & Recognition

Cost: Day rate - £945 + VAT

Accreditation: CITB ATO Workforce Skills Support Certification

Certificate Validity: 3 years

Funding & Grants

CITB Short Course Grant Code: N/A

CITB Support

Ken Wood & Sons Construction have been utilising the services provided by Workforce Skill Support for a number of years now. Their expertise and understanding of the Construction Industries Training requirements and associated advice is invaluable. Every request is dealt with professionally and efficiently whilst understanding our needs and working within budgets. We would highly recommend using Workforce Skills Support for all your training needs.

Ken Wood & Sons Construction

Detection of Buried Services for Construction (CAT and Genny)Course Aims

To provide a comprehensive overview of standard radiodetection tools—CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) and Genny (Signal Generator)—in line with HSG47 health and safety guidelines for avoiding underground service hazards. Participants will learn correct location techniques, detection methods, and understand the limitations of the equipment.
Everything you need

Learning Outcomes

Here is a brief overview of the content of training, select the topic title to see the content of the course:

  • how to obtain plans

  • advantages of accessing updated/new plans

  • identification of utilities and features using the provided key/legend

  • the importance of using existing or implementing generic safe excavation procedures such as risk assessments, method statements, and permits to dig

  • check the equipment for condition and conformity and adhere to any specific manufacturers recommendations for equipment checks and verifications

  • check the surrounding area for indications of existing utilities and cross reference to plans if applicable

  • check area for possible obstructions that may interfere with the performance of the EML equipment and application

  • maintain manufacturers recommended application methods and or best practice for specific location and environments

  • HSG47 safe excavation methods in relation to using the Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) and Signal Generator (Genny), (requirement for training, understanding application methods and limitations, mechanical excavation exclusions) if not already included in existing RAMS

  • demonstrate equipment checks to establish condition and conformity

  • complete a check of the surrounding area to be surveyed for indications of existing utilities

  • complete a check of the area to be surveyed for possible obstructions that may interfere with the performance of the CAT and Genny equipment and safe application

  • employ manufacturers recommended application methods and or best practice for specific location and environments

  • describe and demonstrate equipment tests

Find out more about this Course

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about this course? Here is a compilation of our most frequently asked questions.

This Cat & Genny course is delivered through a classroom-based presentation combined with hands-on practical training in the safe use of the CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) and Genny (Signal Generator). It can also include (upon request) instruction on using flexible trace wire and sondes for locating underground services such as surface and foul drainage pipes.

Absolutely. We offer nationwide in-house delivery for group bookings and can even help arrange a local venue if needed. Travel costs may apply depending on location.

This is a short, tutor-led session typically lasting half a working day (approx. 3 to 4 hours).

The maximum number of delegates for the Detection of Buried Services course is 10 face-to-face.

No, this course will be delivered on a day rate and can be paired with another half day course on the same day for the day rate specified for the course.

There are no mandatory renewal or refresher for this standard.

The course can be tailored to meet specific client needs and delivered either onsite (using the client’s facilities) or at a convenient training location.

Operatives attending the course are requested to bring a hi-vis vest or jacket or full site PPE if the training will take place on a construction site.

The training focuses on the safe and effective use of the CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) and Genny (Signal Generator). It also covers techniques for locating underground pipes using flexible trace wires and sondes, including surface and foul drainage systems.

This practical, classroom-based course is designed for anyone involved in excavation or surveying on construction sites where detecting underground services is critical. It is ideal for:

  • Ground survey teams
  • Utility repair and installation specialists
  • Groundworks operatives
  • Supervisors and managers overseeing such operations
  • Construction operatives responsible for service detection before commencing work
  • Those requiring refresher training

Training includes use of Radiodetection CAT4+ and Genny4 units, supplied by the training provider.

Participants should bring a hi-vis vest or jacket, or full site PPE if the course is held on an active construction site.

No, however we do have similar courses that are grant eligible for the CITB Levy. Refer to our courses for Detection of Buried Utilities for Construction Using Electromagnetic Location - EML training and Level 2 Award in Utility Avoidance.

Yes – all attendees will receive a CITB ATO Workforce Skills Support Certification upon successful completion of the course. 

While it is not a regulated qualification, it is designed to meet industry needs and support workforce development.

Yes, the certificate will have an expiration date of 3 years from completion date of the course.

This is advised by the awarding organisation based on HSE Guidance