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ASSET Approved Cylinder Test Stations Accreditation
Introduction
Since 2009, the ASSET (Association of Scuba Service Technicians) Approval Scheme has provided an industry-recognized accreditation for test stations handling breathing apparatus cylinders. This review examines the benefits and requirements of ASSET approval.
Benefits
HSE Endorsement: ASSET accreditation has been recognized by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) as an indicator of competence in cylinder inspection and maintenance. This recognition provides confidence to employers and users that ASSET-approved stations meet industry best practices.
Compliance Assurance: ASSET-approved stations operate in accordance with specific standards and the ASSET Code of Practice CP2, ensuring that cylinders are tested and maintained to the highest levels of safety.
Certified Technicians: Stations employ only ASSET Certified Cylinder Testers, who have undergone rigorous training and assessment to demonstrate their technical knowledge and skills.
Quality Inspection: ASSET monitors approved stations through regular audits to ensure ongoing compliance with standards and best practices.
Requirements:
Cylinder Types: ASSET accreditation is limited to test stations handling only breathing apparatus cylinders.
Technician Limits: Stations employing up to three cylinder test technicians are eligible for ASSET approval. Test stations handling other types of cylinder or employing more than 3 cylinder test technicians must apply to UKAS for accreditation.
Standards Compliance: Stations must adhere to relevant standards, including BS EN 1978:2012 and BS EN 144-1:2016.
Code of Practice: Stations must implement the ASSET Code of Practice CP2, which covers aspects such as cylinder testing, inspection, and record-keeping.
Technician Certification: All cylinder testers must hold an ASSET certification, demonstrating their competence through written and practical assessments.
Conclusion
ASSET Approved Cylinder Test Stations provide a valuable accreditation that assures users and employers of the safety and reliability of cylinder testing and maintenance. By working in accordance with strict standards, workshop safety and employing certified technicians, ASSET-approved stations ensure that breathing apparatus cylinders are maintained to the highest possible quality and standards.
