AGT Course Online | £60+VAT | 180mins

AGT Course

The Echo3 online 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 Certificate

Developed by qualified health and safety professionals
Accredited by CPD – learn more about CPD here
Last Updated August 2025
To gain the certificate you must complete the assessment which involves 20 questions.
The online Authorised Gas Tester certificate is valid for 3 years.

Frequently asked Questions

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

Course Content

UNIT 1

Authorised Gas Tester

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.

UNIT 2

Confined Space Testing

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.

UNIT 3

Gas Monitoring Before and During Hot Work

Essential procedures for gas monitoring in relation to hot work activities. Begins with an overview of what constitutes hot work

UNIT 4

Testing for Flammable Gas

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.