The responsibility of an Authorised Gas Tester (AGT) is crucial for maintaining safety when working in hazardous environments, particularly within confined spaces such as storage tanks, silos, and underground vaults.
These spaces often pose significant risks due to the potential presence of toxic, flammable, or oxygen-deficient gases.
As a result, industries that involve confined space work rely heavily on AGTs to ensure the atmosphere is safe before and during entry.
Who is an Authorised Gas Tester in Malaysia?
In essence, an Authorised Gas Tester (AGT) is a trained and certified professional tasked with ensuring that the atmosphere within confined spaces is safe for entry and work.
Their work is crucial in identifying toxic, flammable, or oxygen-deficient atmospheres that could otherwise cause serious injury or fatality.
AGTs in Malaysia are recognised by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).
Read More: Authorised Gas Testing: Ensuring Safe Operations in Hazardous Environments
Key Responsibilities of an Authorised Gas Tester in Malaysia
1. Conducting Atmospheric Testing
The foremost responsibility of an Authorised Gas Tester is to carry out thorough atmospheric testing before and during entry into confined spaces.
The testing is performed using calibrated gas detection equipment to monitor levels of oxygen, flammable gases, toxic vapours, and other hazardous substances.
This ensures that the environment meets the safety standards required for safe occupancy.
2. Interpreting Test Results
It is not enough to merely collect data; an AGT must accurately interpret the results to assess the level of risk.
If dangerous levels of gases are detected, they are responsible for recommending that entry should be delayed until the atmosphere is rendered safe, usually through ventilation or other engineering controls.
3. Continuous Monitoring
Moreover, conditions within a confined space can change rapidly. An Authorised Gas Tester’s responsibility is to conduct ongoing atmospheric monitoring throughout the duration of work within a confined space.
This continuous vigilance ensures that any dangerous changes in the environment are immediately detected and corrective action can be taken swiftly.
4. Advising on Control Measures
Additionally, in cases where hazardous atmospheres are detected, AGTs play a key advisory role in maintaining safe working conditions.
They recommend appropriate control measures such as forced ventilation, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), or the application of specific work procedures designed to minimise risk.
5. Ensuring Proper Equipment Use
An AGT also must ensure that all gas testing equipment is correctly selected, properly calibrated, and maintained. This equipment is the cornerstone of their work, and any malfunction or inaccuracy could result in catastrophic consequences.
6. Record-Keeping
Accurate documentation is another crucial part of an Authorised Gas Tester’s responsibilities. Records of all tests conducted, including times, locations, equipment used, gas levels detected, and any actions taken, must be meticulously maintained.
These records are vital for compliance with occupational safety regulations and for future audits or investigations.
Read More: Type of PMI in Malaysia: A Rapid and Non-Destructive Method
Skills Required of An Authorised Gas Tester in Malaysia
The role of an Authorised Gas Tester demands a specific skill set and thorough knowledge. AGTs must be proficient in using various types of gas detection instruments and interpreting their readings correctly.
They should also be well-versed in occupational health and safety regulations, understand the behaviour of gases, and be able to implement effective measures in emergency situations.
Furthermore, good communication skills are important. An AGT must clearly convey the risks and required safety measures to workers, supervisors, and site managers.
Read More: Liquid Penetrating Testing Process: A Reliable NDT Method in Malaysia
Protect Your Workforce with XPERT Malaysia
In short, carrying out precise atmospheric testing isn’t just a box-ticking exercise — it’s a critical step in protecting lives and maintaining operational standards.
With confined spaces posing unpredictable risks, having a qualified professional to test, monitor, and certify the atmosphere makes a measurable difference to workplace safety.
At XPERT, we bring certified expertise and industry best practices to every site we support. Our Authorised Gas Testers are fully trained to assess, monitor, and document atmospheric conditions to help you meet legal obligations and create safer environments for your teams.
Ensure every confined space entry starts with confidence. Contact XPERT today to learn more about our Authorised Gas Testing and other related services in Malaysia.
