Gas Test Atmospheres

An atmospheric sample testing for toxicity, oxygen deficiency, presence of gases including flammable gases and vapours which could be present in a working area. Getting training for atmosphere testing ensures you understand when and how to test properly prior to and during work activities, how to interpret and act on the results. Training includes practical activities to build familiarity with gas test equipment and processes. 

Confined spaces are areas which are usually not intended for human occupancy. They are spaces that can be found in vats, tanks, pits, pipes, ducts, flues, chimneys, silos, pressure vessels, underground sewers, wet or dry wells, shafts, shipboard spaces, void spaces or other similar enclosed or partially enclosed structures. It is common that if you are working in confined spaces you may not recognise a space as a confined space and can thus fail to take appropriate precautions risking accidents.

The rules for Gas Test training can vary by industry and organisation. It is however, seen as a standard safety course of training for you if working in most medium to high risk industries and jobs. including emergency services and those who may potentially, through their work, access or work within confined space environments. 

This training is therefore important because some environments and activities undertaken can present real risks for you in relation to air borne contaminants of a toxic and/or invisible nature.  Atmospheric changes can also occur when working in confined spaces resulting in oxygen deficiency, or such as from an event eg fire. The risks can impact you, your work colleagues and those trying to rescue someone who is not aware of the risks.

Testing atmospheres is important when undertaking hot work of any type where heat is part of the activity or generated because of the activity e.g. welding, grinding, etc. It is also important in activities that can cause an uncontrolled release of hydrocarbons, other flammable or toxic materials. Often gas testing is undertaken in spaces or closed environments where issues may be more contained.

Core code of practice is included within the Confined Spaces Code of Practice. The details of this are covered during the Gas Test Training Course. However, there are a number of other codes relevant due to the variety of different industries where different hazards and risks apply which you learn about during the training such as The Work Health & Safety Act 2011. The WHS Act includes information on obligations.

Gas Test atmospheres have applications in aspects of hazardous chemicals, Silica dust, Confined spaces work, welding, spray painting, abrasive blasting, dust hazard environments, stevedoring, electrical work, demolition and heavy plant @ machinery works.  Read various codes here: Codes of practice | WorkSafe.qld.gov.au 

Your Gas Test Ticket lasts for varying durations of time depending on industry, role and organisation. To refresh your gas test ticket, we recommend this training is repeated every two years. As your work or role may require this more or less frequently, it is important that you check with your employer or relevant industry body. Harness follows the variations to this timeline as required. .