Revised IGEM/IG/1 to strengthen training for new entrants

Sector skills council Energy & Utility Skills has set out the new requirements of IGEM/IG/1 for new entrants to the gas industry.

All training programmes undertaken by new entrants into the gas utilisation industry are changing. The aim is to bring a consistent and robust approach to all routes to Gas Safe registration for new entrants. It also aims to ensure that training providers who offer short courses are identified and brought up to standard.

These changes are set out in IGEM/IG/1 Standards of Training in Gas Work. Training programmes will be subject to approval and external quality assurance by the Standard Setting Body (SSB) and will therefore provide a more robust and consistent approach for all training providers operating in this sector.

The IGEM/IG/1 standard provides minimum guided learning hours, depending on the scope of registration included. This includes time in the training centre and practical training on site, and the building and recognition of a learner portfolio.

Additional non-gas safety elements include health and safety, safe electrical isolation, asbestos awareness, water regulations, heating and hot water safety and systems, and energy efficiency.

A number of organisations, including Awarding Organisations, have already undertaken an audit process and have achieved Recogniser of Training status against the IGEM/IG/1 standard. However, to make sure that all training providers comply with IGEM/IG/1, all organisations that provide training as a route to Gas Safe registration must register with IGEM by 31 December 2017. IGEM has written to all training providers.

Providers must register with IGEM whether or not they have already entered into an agreement with a certification or awarding body.

This is to ensure training providers that working towards accreditation against the IGEM/IG/1 standard are identified and registered with the SSB as being compliant against the standard.