Training Courses

    CAT and Genny Training Courses

    Cable avoidance training, utility mapping qualifications, and specialist locator courses. Delivered by the UK's only independent underground utility training provider.

    21 Years

    One Specialism

    70-80%

    Genny Usage Uplift

    Proven

    Strike Reduction

    Max 8

    Delegates Per Session

    Cable avoidance training practical sessionAdvanced electromagnetic location trainingUtility surveying and mapping training

    About Our Training

    What Is CAT and Genny Training?

    CAT and Genny training teaches operatives and workers how to use cable avoidance tools to locate underground services before excavation. The CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) is a receiver that detects electromagnetic signals from buried cables and pipes. The Genny (signal generator) connects to a known service and transmits a traceable signal that the CAT can follow. Together, these cable avoidance tools allow operatives to locate underground cables, pipes, and other buried services across all four locating modes: Power, Radio, Genny, and Avoidance.

    Sygma Solutions is the UK's only independent specialist in underground utility location training. Every genny training course we deliver is built on electromagnetic theory, practical skills, and 21 years of field experience in cable avoidance work. Our training courses cover the essential knowledge that goes beyond basic equipment operation to teach operatives why the technology works, not just how to turn it on.

    CAT and Genny training in progress
    Cable avoidance equipment demonstration

    Why This Matters

    Why Cable Avoidance Training Matters

    Cable strikes remain one of the most serious risks on construction sites across the UK. Striking buried services during excavation can cause significant damage to underground utilities infrastructure, costly project delays, and serious safety risks to workers and the public. HSG47, the Health and Safety Executive's guidance on avoiding danger from underground services, sets out the safe working practices that employers and operatives must follow.

    While cable avoidance training is not a strict legal requirement, proof of competency in underground service detection is a practical requirement on most construction sites and is increasingly specified by principal contractors and utility companies. Training gives operatives the practical skills and essential knowledge to identify potential risks beneath the ground and to safely carry out excavation work near buried cables and utility services. Without proper training, even the best cable avoidance tools are only as effective as the person operating them.

    Utility Avoidance

    Cable Avoidance Training Courses

    From foundation-level CAT and Genny courses to advanced supervisor qualifications. All cable avoidance training courses include practical assessment, theory content, and comply with HSG47 guidance for safe working near underground services.

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    Foundation and Operator Courses

    Supervisor and Safe Dig Courses

    Specialist and Online Courses

    Utility Mapping

    Utility Mapping and Surveying Courses

    PAS128 surveyor training, GPR equipment courses, and ProQual qualifications from Level 3 to Level 6. The complete career pathway for utility mapping professionals.

    View Utility Mapping Hub ›

    GPR and PAS128 Specialist Training

    ProQual Qualifications

    Online Qualifications

    Who This Is For

    Who Needs CAT and Genny Training?

    CAT and Genny training is relevant for any workers or operatives involved in excavation or groundworks near underground utilities. This includes groundworkers, plant operators, site supervisors, construction workers, utility contractors, and anyone working near buried services. There are no formal entry requirements for most foundation-level courses. Supervisors and managers should consider CAT2 or manager-level cable avoidance training for a deeper understanding of risk management and safe dig strategy.

    Delivery Options

    How Our Training Is Delivered

    All Sygma cable avoidance and utility mapping training courses can be delivered in the classroom at our Wigan headquarters, at The Survey School in Worcester, or as on site training at your premises anywhere in the UK. Travel is included. Maximum 8 delegates per session to maintain practical assessment quality. Every course includes a practical element using real genny equipment and cable avoidance tools. In house training can be tailored to your site conditions and your own equipment. Sygma is a CITB Approved Training Organisation within the CITB Employer Network.

    Certification

    Certification and Qualifications

    On successful completion of any Sygma training course, successful delegates receive the appropriate certificate or qualification for their chosen route. For EUS courses, delegates receive a certificate, photo ID card, and EUSR registration valid for five years. ProQual awards carry national recognition as accredited qualifications. Delegates must pass both a theory and practical assessment to qualify for any accredited genny certificate. NRSWA certificates and card are valid for 5 years. All certificates are issued promptly, with same-day certification available on most courses.

    Hands-on cable avoidance training
    EM locator training session
    Utility mapping field training

    Common Questions

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What CAT and Genny training courses does Sygma offer?

    Sygma offers a full range of cable avoidance training including EUS CAT1, ProQual CAT1 and CAT1 Plus, EUS CAT2 Safe Dig, CAT Manager, and the RQF Level 2 Award. We also deliver specialist courses such as Advanced EM Locator, GPR training, and PAS128 awareness.

    Are Sygma courses CITB approved?

    Yes. Sygma is a CITB Approved Training Organisation. CITB-registered employers may be able to access funding support for eligible courses through the CITB Employer Network.

    What is the difference between EUS CAT1 and ProQual CAT1?

    EUS CAT1 leads to EUSR card registration, which is the industry-standard proof of cable avoidance competency. ProQual CAT1 is independently assessed and externally verified, offering a higher standard of individual assessment. Both cover cable avoidance but through different assessment routes.

    Do you deliver training on-site at our premises?

    Yes. Sygma delivers on-site training across the UK. On-site delivery is available for most courses and requires a minimum of 4 delegates. We bring all equipment and materials to your location.

    What qualifications can I gain through Sygma?

    Depending on the course, you can gain EUS/EUSR cards, ProQual accredited certificates, Ofqual-regulated ProQual Level 2 to Level 6 qualifications in utility mapping and surveying, and Sygma attendance certificates.

    What is the maximum group size for assessed courses?

    Sygma operates a strict maximum of 8 delegates per trainer/assessor session for all assessed courses. This is a deliberate limit maintained across all delivery to ensure proper individual assessment.

    Book Your CAT and Genny Training

    Not sure which training course is right for your team? Talk to Sygma. We will help you choose the right qualification for your operatives, your sector, and your compliance requirements.