NPORS N304 Cable Avoidance Tools (CAT and Genny) Course
Striking buried services during excavation can be deadly – and it happens more often than you’d think. Our NPORS N304 Cable Avoidance Tools Course gives you the skills to use CAT and Genny equipment properly, so you can avoid dangerous and costly mistakes.
What this course covers
We focus on what you’ll actually do on site. You’ll learn how CAT and Genny systems work, how to set them up, calibrate them and use them safely. We cover reading site plans, understanding service drawings and recognising different underground services like electric, gas, water and fibre. You’ll also learn how to mark out detected services, avoid common user errors, and carry out end-of-job checks. Legal duties under HSG47 and PAS 128 are included too – so you know the rules as well as the tools.
Who it’s for
This course is ideal for anyone working around the ground who might strike buried services. It suits groundworkers, civil engineers, utilities staff, surveyors, highways and maintenance teams. Whether you’re new to CAT and Genny or just need a refresher, it gets you up to standard quickly.
How training works
Training combines practical and classroom learning. Our instructors are experienced site workers who’ve used CAT & Genny equipment in real conditions – not just theory. You’ll use industry-standard CAT4+ and Genny4 tools, practise locating services and mark them out on the ground. Group sizes are small, so there’s time for questions and feedback.
Certification & validity
You’ll receive an NPORS N304 Cable Avoidance Tools Operator Card valid for five years. It proves you can safely locate underground services and are competent to work around buried utilities.
Entry requirements
Bring photo ID and have a good understanding of English. No previous qualifications are needed – just the willingness to follow safe systems of work.
Delivery & locations
We run this course across the UK, either on your site or at our Wellingborough training centre. On-site training saves travel time and helps teams learn in their normal work setting.
Why choose Construction & Plant Training Services
We make technical training simple and practical. Our instructors are utility detection experts with real-world experience. We offer UK-wide delivery, flexible dates, a zero-cancellation guarantee and a price-match promise – so you get the training you need without delays.
What you gain
This course helps you prevent strikes, protect lives and avoid costly downtime. You’ll leave confident, competent and ready to work safely near underground services.
Ready to get started?
Tell us your location and preferred date. We’ll confirm availability and get your N304 CAT and Genny training booked quickly.
NPORS N304 Cable Avoidance Tools (CAT and Genny) – FAQs
What is the NPORS N304 Cable Avoidance Tools course?
It’s practical training that shows you how to find buried cables and pipes safely using CAT & Genny equipment. You learn how to avoid costly and dangerous strikes during excavation.
Who should take this course?
Anyone who digs or works near the ground. It’s ideal for groundworkers, civil engineers, utilities staff, surveyors, highways and maintenance teams.
Is it just for beginners?
No. It works for first-time users and as a refresher for experienced staff who need to prove competence.
What does the course cover?
How CAT and Genny systems work, correct setup and calibration, reading site drawings, locating services like electric, gas, water and fibre, marking them safely, and avoiding common mistakes. We also cover legal duties under HSG47 and PAS 128.
What qualification will I get?
You’ll receive an NPORS N304 Cable Avoidance Tools Operator Card valid for five years. It proves you’re trained to work safely around underground services.
Where do you run the course?
We run training across the UK, either on your site or at our Wellingborough training centre. We also serve nearby places like Northampton, Kettering, Corby, Bedford, Milton Keynes, Luton, Peterborough, Leicester, Coventry, Cambridge, Rugby, Banbury and Aylesbury.
How long does it take?
It’s a one-day course combining theory and hands-on training.
What are the entry requirements?
Bring photo ID and a good understanding of English. No previous certificates are required.
Is this course required by law?
It’s not a legal requirement, but the HSE strongly recommends CAT & Genny training under HSG47 to prevent underground strikes.
What tools will I train with?
We use industry-standard CAT4+ and Genny4 models – similar to what you’ll use on real jobs.
How much does it cost?
Prices depend on location and group size. We offer the lowest rates and will match any cheaper like-for-like quote.
How do I book?
Tell us your location and preferred date. We’ll confirm availability and get your N304 course booked quickly.
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