AGT Course Online
The Echo3 AGT course is designed to meet the initial training and validation requirements for individuals preparing to work as Authorised Gas Testers (AGT). The course provides comprehensive training on the use of various gas testing instruments and prepares participants to operate safely in a range of work environments.
An Authorised Gas Tester (AGT) is responsible for conducting tests to measure oxygen levels, and detect flammable and toxic gases, particularly when work is being carried out in confined spaces. AGTs also play a critical role in testing for flammable gases before hot work begins and support safety watch duties during ongoing hot work operations.
Industries that handle hydrocarbons, chemicals, solvents, paints, cleaning products, or generate significant hydrocarbon-based waste may require the use of authorised gas testers.
The knowledge gained in this AGT course will help you understand when, where, and how to carry out essential gas testing to ensure that the atmosphere is safe before starting hot work or working in confined spaces.
AGT Course Content
Module 1 – Authorised Gas Tester
This module provides a detailed introduction to gas testing and the responsibilities of an Authorised Gas Tester (AGT). Learners will explore when and why gas testing is required, including for confined spaces, hot work, and the detection of flammable and toxic gases.
Topics include the types of gases encountered in the oil and gas industry, associated hazards, and typical plant areas where AGTs operate. The module also covers entry certificates, safe systems of work, statutory requirements, and the selection and use of PPE and respiratory protection.
Learners will gain practical knowledge in using gas detectors—such as portable monitors, chemical tubes, and infrared sensors—along with best practices for pre-start checks, instrument calibration, interpreting results, troubleshooting equipment, and documenting findings accurately.
Module 2 – Confined Space Testing
This module covers the safe and effective testing of confined spaces. Learners will define key terms, identify roles in confined space entry (CSE), and understand the hazards of flammable and toxic gases, including their behaviour and safe exposure levels.
Key topics include Workplace Exposure Limits (WEL), Lower Explosive Limits (LEL), testing frequency, detector setup, and proper testing sequences. The module also covers how to take representative atmospheric samples from various points, testing in inert atmospheres, and correct placement of monitoring equipment for ongoing safety.
Module 3 – Gas Monitoring Before and During Hot Work Activities
This module covers the essential procedures for gas monitoring in relation to hot work activities. It begins with an overview of what constitutes hot work and outlines the responsibilities of individuals within a safe system of work, including the roles of the fire watcher, stand-by person, and gas monitor.
Learners will explore how environmental changes can affect working conditions, the importance of verifying that equipment controls are correctly set, and where to seek assistance or specialist support when needed.
Module 4 – Testing for Flammable Gas Before Hot Work
This module covers the procedures for testing flammable gases prior to hot work. It outlines when testing is required, how to apply it to the specific work area, and the importance of adequate oxygen levels and safe gas concentrations.
Learners will explore gas hazards, relative density, risk assessment requirements, and relevant regulations. The module also covers detector setup, testing range and frequency, retesting protocols, and correct placement of monitoring equipment.
Module 5 – Quiz
The course concludes with a 20-question multiple-choice quiz. Achieve a score of 80% or higher to demonstrate your understanding of the key learning objectives. Upon passing, your Echo3 AGT certificate will be emailed to you. The quiz can be retaken if needed.
Authorised Gas Testing Certificate
After completing this online AGT course learners are emailed their certificate. Completion requires achieve 80% or more in the final assessment.
The AGT certificate is valid for 3 years. A hard copy of the AGT certificate can be purchased separately.
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What are the AGT course objectives?
This online Authorised Gas Tester (AGT) training course is to provide you with a brief background of the requirements of Gas Testing procedures and the Confined Space Entry procedure.
In addition, provide you with an overview of the roles and responsibilities involved in Gas Testing, and enhance your knowledge of basic hazard management of oxygen enriched / deficient, toxic and flammable gas atmospheres.
On completion of this course you will have improved your competency and ability to identify hazardous environments that may be Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health, and also determine the associated risks in the work place during pre-work site inspections.
What are the risks from gasses?
The risk of incidents involving gas occurs across the international oil and gas industry, particularly when working in confined spaces or during hot work. According to Oil & Gas UK, Hydrocarbon releases (HCRs) were the single largest category of reportable incidents (47%) in 2021.
The knowledge gained in this course will help you understand how, when and where to carry out the necessary gas tests prior to confined space entry activities. Having the accurate knowledge to ensure that atmospheres are safe for hot work or work activities in confined spaces, gives you the skills to positively contribute to the safety of the asset, your fellow workers and yourself. A reduction in incidents means a safer working environment for everyone.
What do gas testers need to know?
For any environment encountered, knowledge an AGT needs includes;
- The hazardous gasses that could be present
- The behaviour of each gas. Eg, lighter than air or heavier than air
- The levels at which gasses are dangerous
- The appropriate gas detection equipment to use
- Where to appropriately position gas detection equipment
- How often to re-check gas levels (gas test frequency).
- How to calibrate and maintain gas detection equipment. (Example, see bump test safety alert 2020)
- Site safety procedures (safe systems of work).
- How to wear appropriate PPE
- The correct gas test order
- How to obtain a representative sample, rather than testing in one
Related Courses
Benzene Awareness – how to work safely where Benzene could be present.
Confined Space Entry – how to work safely in confined spaces.
COSHH – how to create a safe workplace where Hazardous Substances could be present.
Hazardous Substances – how to work safely where Hazardous Substances could be present.
H2S Awareness – how to work safely where Hydrogen Sulphide could be present
Nitrogen Awareness – how to work safely where Nitrogen could be present.
Access all Echo3 safety courses with training credit.
