Rank: Super forum user 
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Our maintenance department occassionally (less than once per week) use an acetylene torch to cut metal. We are about to take on a new engineer to replace the retiring one (our team is two engineers). I haven't spoken to the new recruit personally yet, but his CV lacks mention of training in the use of oxy/fuel cutting equipment. The HSE guidance for training of oxy/fuel equipment states Quote:"Oxy/fuel equipment is relatively easy to use but users may still need some instruction or training in:
■ the safe use of the equipment, including the correct methods to purge, light and shut down;
■ general safe working practices and the precautions to take;
■ when and how to use the fire extinguishers;
■ information about escape routes, how to raise the fire alarm and emergency procedures This would suggest that our experienced engineers can train him (they have a combined 40+ years of experience). Remember the induction will cover the final 3 points, it is only the "safe use of the equipment etc." that I would be passing over to the more experienced members of staff. Also they would be expected to read and understand the safe system of work/hot work permits that go along with this work. So in summary, do you feel I should also find a course for them, should they have no previous training?
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Rank: Forum user
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We had a similar situation recently where our 'experienced' welding engineer carried out oxy-fuel flame cutting for us, however he wasn't carrying out the cuts safely. Before assigning the training to your other engineer, I'd confirm a few things: - Check the condition of the equipment; Regulators in date, hoses, torch, nozzles are in good condition etc. - Check that the engineer knows proper start up/shut down procedures; purging, setting working presures and nozzle selection based on material thickness, storage of equipment/cylinders etc - Is the engineer confident in training others? - Do you have a procedure that could be followed if the engineer or the newbie have any doubts as to the process? I went through a similar checklist and came to the conclusion that our welding engineer and a few others needed proper training from a competent person.
We did our training through PGS Training (https://pgstraining.com/safety-training/oxy-acetylene-propane-cutting-training/) (sorry if business links aren't allowed, I'll remove if necessary).
Our trainer had over 30 years experience as a welder in a wide variety of industries and was a board member of the BCGA, he was excellent. I was also allowed to attend the training as the health and safety representative with no extra charge which helped immensely.
Long story short, if the funding is there, I'd opt for proper training. It'll also show that the company cares about it's new employees too, which is always a bonus.
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 2 users thanked Climhazard for this useful post.
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Rank: Super forum user 
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We have one set of kit on site and have just gone through a detailed risk assessment of the use of the kit. As a result we have been in touch with the suppliers who are now carrying out annual competent person checks on the equipment and have provided us with certificates of inspection. I think they also provide training as well so might be worth checking out who you buy your gasses from.
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1 user thanked Hsquared14 for this useful post.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Originally Posted by: Hsquared14  We have one set of kit on site and have just gone through a detailed risk assessment of the use of the kit. As a result we have been in touch with the suppliers who are now carrying out annual competent person checks on the equipment and have provided us with certificates of inspection. I think they also provide training as well so might be worth checking out who you buy your gasses from.
Thanks, that is a great idea. We are just about to review suppliers, so I can make it a criterea for selection.
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Rank: Super forum user 
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As above, but also ensure that they know that on no account should you let any oil or grease get onto the connections of the oxygen side of the set up! Regulator threads etc. Also, in the list noted above flash back arrestors have a shelf life as well as the regulators. The annual test noted above is to CP7, perhaps the people you get to do that will also be able to conduct training. A long long time ago when I was an apprentice, I was taught to use Oxygen / Acetylene to weld, braze and flame cut. However, I could not prove that now (a concept I’m going to have problems with in about a years’ time by all account, but for other things) Chris
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Rank: Forum user 
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Pardon me for adding another endorsement for PGS training - they trained me (and also re-validate that I still know what I am talking about annually). The training course they run, and train others in, is based on the BCGA guidance and codes of practice.
I should say I am not affiliated to them in any way, but I strongly recommend using them, certainly for the aspects of training you have mentioned in the OP.
Part of the training is a practical on safe light-up and shut down (3 stops and no gas!) Just google PGS gas and you should get a link to them.
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1 user thanked andrewcl for this useful post.
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