Carbon monoxide safety program

Who needs to complete the module?

The VBA has developed a gas safety learning module which is designed to ensure that all Victorian gasfitters stay up to date with current testing procedures.

If you have not been registered or licensed in any of the classes of gasfitting since 2018 and have not completed the module, you must complete the module before you can become re-registered or licensed. Your registration or licensing in gasfitting will not be renewed if you have not completed the module.

Why am I required to do the learning module?

The VBA takes consumer safety seriously. As a gasfitter, we’re sure you do too.

The learning module is designed to ensure that all Victorian gasfitters stay up to date with current testing procedures.

On your next renewal date (occurring on or after 1 November 2018):

• Your ID card and "Find a Practitioner" record will no longer state that you are a qualified gasfitter.
• You will not be able to lawfully complete any gasfitting work.

Additionally, if you are a licensed gasfitter:

• You will not be able to supervise registered practitioners or apprentices in gasfitting work.
• You will not be able to issue compliance certificates in this work.

I’m intending to retire and not renew my registration or licence when it expires. Do I still need to complete the module?

We recommend you complete the module, even if you intend to retire or leave the industry. You need to stay up to date with current testing procedures while you are working as a gasfitter.

I no longer reside or work in Victoria. Do I still need to the complete the module?

We recommend you complete the module to ensure you stay up to date with current testing procedures.

If you no longer want to retain your registration or licence in Victoria, please let us know by sending an email to plumbingreg@vba.vic.gov.au.

I’m a Type B Gasfitter. Do I have to complete the module?

You will need to complete the module if you are also registered or licensed in the main class of Gasfitting or the specialised classes of Type A Appliance Servicing or Conversion work.

I hold a restricted gasfitting registration. Do I need to complete the module?

Yes – if you want to renew your gasfitting registration when it is next due.

I attended the VBA's Carbon Monoxide Safety Program and/or completed carbon monoxide training with Master Plumbers. Do I need to complete the module?

Yes. If you do not complete the module, you will no longer be eligible to work as a gasfitter from the date of your next renewal.

Having attended the recent training run by the VBA and/or Master Plumbers will assist you in successfully completing the learning module.

How do I access and complete the module?

Please contact the VBA on 1300 815 127 and we will send you a link to the module.

You can complete the module on a smartphone, tablet or computer. You just need an internet connection. If you don’t have one of these devices, and you can access your email online, you can complete the module from any smartphone, tablet or computer (such as an office computer, a friend’s computer or a computer at a library).

Alternatively, you can book a time to complete the module at a VBA office by contacting us on 1300 815 127.

When you successfully complete the module, the VBA will update your practitioner record to reflect that you have completed the assessment.

I completed my exam. How do I know I passed?

Once you have finished the learning module and exam, you will see the following message on your screen:

You successfully completed the Combustion Spillage Testing module and exam.

What does the module involve?

The learning module is divided into eight topics and an exam. Each topic includes a four- to six-minute video and a series of multiple-choice questions.

At the end of the module, you must complete a final series of questions that assess your overall knowledge of the carbon monoxide spillage and negative pressure tests.

Each question is based on content covered in the module.

How long will it take to complete the module?

Most gasfitters will complete the module within one hour.

What if English is not my first language?

The learning module has been written for people with various levels of English.

If you are concerned about your English skills, try watching the first video to see how you go.

If you find it too difficult, you can complete the module at a VBA office with a professional interpreter. Just contact us on 1300 815 127.

I’d like to provide feedback on the module.

You can email feedback to combustionspillage@vba.vic.gov.au.

Is the learning module difficult?

All of the information you need to complete the module is provided as you progress.

Are there fact sheets available in other languages?

At this stage, the fact sheets are only available in English.

How do I calibrate my carbon monoxide analyser?

You need to follow the instructions in your manufacturer’s manual.

If you have lost your manual, many manufacturers now make the manuals available online. Alternatively, give them a call.

How often do I need to calibrate my carbon monoxide analyser?

The VBA and ESV recommend that you have your analyser calibrated every 12 months, or before its next use if you think it may have been damaged (e.g. by dropping it).

What is the name of the smoke-producing device shown in the video?

The smoke-producing device in the video is a smoke pen. You can also use smoke matches or incense sticks.

Where do I purchase the testing equipment from? Are there any technical requirements?

You can arrange the purchase of the testing equipment from any plumbing merchant.

You will need:

• a smoke-producing device (such as a smoke wand or smoke matches), and
• a carbon monoxide analyser – both the VBA and Energy Safe Victoria recommend that you use an analyser with a sampling probe.

Can I talk to a gasfitting expert? I have some questions.

Yes – you can speak to a member of our technical and regulatory expert team by calling 1300 815 127 between 10 am and 4 pm.

For carbon monoxide technical questions and answers, see ESV Q&A sheet.