Cat and Genny Training is essential for anyone involved in excavation, groundworks, or any task that could bring them into contact with underground services. Whether you’re working in construction, utilities, or civil engineering, this training gives you the practical skills to avoid dangerous—and costly—strikes to buried cables and pipes.
In this post, we’ll explain what Cat and Genny Training involves, who needs it, and why it’s critical for safe, compliant excavation work.
What is Cat and Genny Training?
Cat and Genny Training teaches workers how to use a Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) and a Signal Generator (Genny) to detect underground utilities such as:
- Electricity cables
- Gas and water pipes
- Communication lines
- Drainage systems
The course ensures you know how to correctly operate and interpret the CAT and Genny, helping to locate buried services before excavation begins, reducing the risk of service strikes.
Why is Cat and Genny Training Important?
Every year in the UK, utility strikes cause serious injuries, costly delays, and legal consequences. Many of these incidents happen simply because workers didn’t follow safe excavation procedures or weren’t trained to use detection tools correctly.
Cat and Genny Training ensures you can:
- Accurately locate underground services
- Understand site utility drawings
- Avoid costly damage or injury
- Comply with health and safety regulations
It’s not just about ticking boxes—it’s about saving lives and protecting infrastructure.
Who Should Take Cat and Genny Training?
This training is highly recommended for:
- Construction and utility workers
- Groundworkers and plant operatives
- Surveyors and engineers
- Supervisors and site managers
- Anyone involved in excavation or digging
If your role involves disturbing the ground, Cat and Genny Training is a must-have.
What Does the Cat and Genny Course Cover?
The course combines both theory and hands-on practical training. Topics typically include:
- How the Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) and Signal Generator (Genny) work
- Safe systems of work for utility detection
- Locating live and passive signals
- Use of detection modes (Power, Radio, and Genny)
- Reading site plans and interpreting results
- Real-world practical exercises on live services
By the end of the session, learners will understand how to safely trace and avoid buried services, reducing the chance of accidents.
How Long is the Training and is it Accredited?
Most Cat and Genny Training courses take just half a day to complete. Some providers offer full-day sessions that include more extensive practical work or combine with other excavation safety modules.
Upon successful completion, delegates typically receive a certificate of competence valid for several years.
On-Site and Group Cat and Genny Training
For companies needing to train multiple staff, on-site Cat and Genny Training is a convenient and cost-effective option. Trainers can come to your location, tailoring the course to your work environment and procedures.
Book Your Cat and Genny Training Today
Whether you're an individual looking to boost your safety credentials or a company seeking to protect your workforce, Cat and Genny Training is a critical investment. Avoid costly mistakes, comply with legislation, and most importantly—protect lives.
Contact us today to book your Cat and Genny Training course—available nationwide with options for classroom, on-site, and group bookings.