A new Level 2 VRQ (Vocationally Related Qualification), which aims to help raise awareness of gas safety issues for front line social housing staff has been launched by CORGI Technical Services and EAL (Excellence Achievement Learning).
CORGI has designed the qualification, training and associated study unit, which is accredited by EAL.

The new course has been introduced in response to demand from several housing associations for a recognised qualification to demonstrate their commitment to gas safety with relevant, quality training.

Gas Safety Awareness in Social Housing Level 2 VRQ is designed specifically for housing staff who are in the front line of gas safety every day and would suit roles such as housing officers, social workers, surveyors, maintenance operatives, call centre staff, gas admin staff and voids officers.

The course consists of a half day training programme delivered by an experienced gas expert from CORGI's training team and covers:

Gas awareness: an understanding of how gas behaves if it leaks and how it burns safely

Carbon monoxide (CO) awareness: an explanation of how CO is produced, what it does to the body and how to recognise the symptoms of CO poisoning

CO detection: understanding the safety measures that can reduce the risk of CO poisoning

Safe gas appliances: identifying good combustion and unsafe appliances/installations

Landlord responsibilities and legislation: an overview of the legal requirements placed on social landlords

Gas Safe Registration: an understanding of the registration requirements and how to check operatives' qualifications

Dealing with reports of fumes and gas escapes: how to keep customers/tenants safe in their homes

Course dates for the Level 2 VRQ in Gas Safety Awareness in Social Housing are:

Scotland - 16 January 2013

Manchester - 24 January 2013

London - 31 January 2013

North East - 7 February 2013

Birmingham - 12 February 2013

Bristol - 20 February 2013

In-house courses can also be run on request. Details about how to book on the course can be found at www.corgitechnical.com or by contacting training@corgitechnical.com or 01256 548040