The construction and utilities industries are constantly evolving, with regulations and safety standards tightening to protect workers, the public, and essential infrastructure. One area seeing significant change is the requirement for Cat 1 (Locate Utility Services) and Cat 2 (Implement Safe Excavating Practices) training.
If you work on or near buried utilities – whether gas, water, electricity, or telecoms – you will find that these qualifications are not just recommended, but mandatory on many sites.
In recent months, we have noticed an uptick in interest in these courses. This will continue to grow in the coming months as people realise they need it to carry out their work.
And that’s where this blog comes in. You can get details on what exactly the course involves, why it is so important, and if you are one of those people who should be getting booked in.
What is Involved in Category 1 & Category 2 Utility Excavations?
These courses are vital for anyone in the sector. They provide an in-depth look at what is involved in this work and how to keep themselves and others safe from harm. As these courses cover different aspects of Utility Excavations, they can be done individually or can
be combine for a full, 2-day training course.
Each course covers the following aspects:
Cat 1: Locate Utility Services
This training focuses on safely locating underground utilities before excavation begins. Using tools like cable avoidance tools and signal generators, candidates learn how to detect cables, pipes, and other services to reduce the risk of costly and dangerous strikes.
Cat 2: Implement Safe Excavating Practices
Once utilities are located, Cat 2 covers the practical side, how to excavate safely around them. This includes correct hand-digging techniques, the use of suction excavation where
appropriate, and understanding safe digging distances. The goal is to keep people safe, avoid damage, and maintain compliance with regulations.
On these courses, candidates will experience a mixture of theory and practical learning. This
will give anyone who partakes both the knowledge and the necessary skills upon completion.
Why Is This Training Becoming Mandatory?
Striking underground services can have serious consequences: injuries, service outages,
environmental damage, and significant financial penalties.
With tighter industry rules and increased safety expectations, many sites now
require proof of Cat 1 and Cat 2 training before allowing work to begin.
By ensuring all operatives are trained, companies can demonstrate compliance, reduce risk,
and maintain a strong safety record.
Who Needs It?
If your role involves breaking ground, operating excavation equipment, or supervising such
work, Cat 1 and Cat 2 training is for you. This includes:
● Utility workers
● Groundworkers
● Civil engineers
● Construction operatives and supervisors
Why Choose McCrae Training?
We deliver Energy & Utility Skills-accredited Cat 1 and Cat 2 courses with experienced
trainers who have worked across the utilities and civil engineering sectors.
Our sessions
combine theory and hands-on practice, so you leave confident and competent.
We also offer the courses individually if you only require one, or as a combined Cat 1 & 2
package for full compliance.
Get Ahead of the Curve
With more sites making Cat 1 and Cat 2 a requirement, now is the time to get qualified. Don’t
wait until it’s a barrier to starting work – book your training and stay ahead.
Check our course dates and secure your place!
Or you can fill our a contact form and a member of our team will be int ouch to help with your enquiry.