Cylinder Assessment Technician (C.A.T.) Certification
HAZMAT, OSHA & DOT Compliant High-Pressure Cylinder Inspection Training
The Cylinder Assessment Technician (C.A.T.) certification is an industry-recognized standard for high-pressure cylinder visual inspection, oxygen cleaning, valve service, and fill station operation. Whether you work in SCUBA, fire suppression, emergency services, aviation, food & beverage, cryogenics, or industrial gas sectors, the C.A.T. certification ensures you meet the highest standards of cylinder safety, inspection integrity, and regulatory compliance.
Cylindex C.A.T. training combines flexible eLearning with hands-on practical instruction, preparing you to safely inspect, clean, service, and maintain all high-pressure cylinders and valves.
What Is Cylinder Assessment Technician (C.A.T.) Certification?
The Cylinder Assessment Technician course is a comprehensive HAZMAT, OSHA, and DOT/CTC compliant training program for professionals who handle, inspect, and maintain high-pressure cylinders, valves, and fill station systems.
C.A.T. certification is recognized across multiple industries, including:
- SCUBA – Dive shops and training facilities
- Fire Suppression – Fire departments and SCBA maintenance teams
- Emergency Services – EMS, rescue teams, and first responders
- Aviation – Ground support and maintenance crews
- Food & Beverage – CO2 cylinder handling and service
- Cryogenics – Liquid chemical storage and compressed gas facilities
- Industrial – Manufacturing and safety operations
Upon completion, C.A.T. certified technicians are fully qualified to:
- Perform visual inspections of high-pressure cylinders
- Conduct oxygen cleaning and preparation
- Service and maintain cylinder valves
- Operate and maintain fill station systems safely
- Ensure compliance with HAZMAT, OSHA, and DOT regulations
Every C.A.T. certification is processed by Cylindex, ensuring consistent standards and industry-wide recognition.
How C.A.T. Certification Training Works
The C.A.T. course is designed for maximum flexibility and hands-on learning. Training is divided into two parts: self-paced eLearning and instructor-led practical training.
eLearning (4-5 Hours)
Complete your knowledge development at your own pace with Cylindex’s interactive eLearning platform. This online module covers:
- High-pressure cylinder theory and construction
- HAZMAT, OSHA, and DOT regulations and compliance
- Visual inspection criteria and procedures
- Oxygen cleaning standards and techniques
- Valve service and maintenance fundamentals
- Fill station operation and safety protocols
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours (self-paced, complete anytime)
The eLearning module eliminates lengthy classroom sessions, allowing you to focus on theory and regulations before your hands-on training day.
Note: eLearning alone does not result in certification. Practical hands-on training is required to complete C.A.T. certification.
Hands-On Practical Training (4 Hours)
Apply your knowledge in a real-world environment with expert-led practical instruction. During your hands-on session, you’ll:
- Perform visual inspections on actual high-pressure cylinders
- Practice oxygen cleaning procedures step-by-step
- Service and troubleshoot cylinder valves
- Discuss fill station operations & safety procedures
- Learn inspection techniques you’ll use in the field
Time Commitment: 4 hours (instructor-led, in-person)
Format: Small group, hands-on training
Location: Cylindex instructors are located throughout the U.S.A. and international locations
Upon successful completion of both eLearning and practical training, you’ll receive your C.A.T. certification, processed and issued by Cylindex.
Why Get C.A.T. Certified with Cylindex
Cylindex has established the Cylinder Assessment Technician certification as the industry standard for high-pressure cylinder safety and inspection. Our C.A.T. program is recognized across SCUBA, fire suppression, emergency services, aviation, and industrial sectors because it combines rigorous HAZMAT, OSHA, and DOT compliance with practical, real-world training. Unlike generic safety courses, C.A.T. certification provides hands-on experience with the exact inspection techniques, oxygen cleaning procedures, and fill station operations you’ll perform in the field. Every certification is processed by Cylindex, ensuring consistency and credibility no matter where you complete your training. Whether you’re a dive shop technician, fire department SCBA specialist, or industrial facility manager, C.A.T. certification demonstrates your commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and professional excellence. When you earn your C.A.T. certification, you’re joining a network of certified professionals trusted to maintain the highest standards in cylinder handling and inspection.
C.A.T. Certification FAQs
How long does C.A.T. certification take?
The complete C.A.T. course takes approximately 8-9 hours total:
eLearning: 4-5 hours (self-paced, complete anytime before practical training)
Hands-on training: 4 hours (instructor-led, in-person)
Most students complete eLearning over 1-2 days and attend a single 4-hour practical session. You can complete the full certification in as little as 2-3 days or spread the eLearning over weeks before your scheduled hands-on training.
What's included in C.A.T. certification?
Your C.A.T. certification includes:
- Interactive eLearning access (4-5 hours)
- Hands-on practical training (4 hours) – Expert instruction from certified Cylindex trainers
- All training materials and inspection references
- C.A.T. certification processed and issued by Cylindex
Course fees vary by instructor and location. Check course listings or contact Cylindex for specific pricing.
Are there prerequisites for C.A.T. training?
No formal prerequisites are required. C.A.T. certification is designed for professionals at all experience levels, from entry-level technicians to seasoned cylinder handlers.
You should have:
- Basic understanding of compressed gas systems (helpful but not required)
- Ability to complete online eLearning modules
- Physical ability to handle cylinders and tools during practical training
If you work with high-pressure cylinders in any capacity, you’re ready for C.A.T. certification.
Does C.A.T. certification expire?
C.A.T. certification follows the HAZMAT recurrent traing requirements stating that training must be conducted once every three years at a minimum
Cylindex offers the C.A.T. course at a discounted renewal rate for individuals who need to complete a recurrent training. Proof of a previous Cylindex certification (or equivalent certification from a reputable agency) are required for the renewal rate.
Who recognizes C.A.T. certification?
C.A.T. certification is recognized industry-wide for high-pressure cylinder inspection and maintenance. Industries that accept and often require C.A.T. certification include:
- SCUBA diving and training facilities
- Fire departments and SCBA maintenance teams
- Emergency medical services (EMS)
- Aviation ground support and maintenance
- Food & beverage cylinder handling
- Industrial compressed gas facilities
- Cryogenics and specialty gas operations
Because every C.A.T. certification is processed by Cylindex, employers and regulatory agencies recognize the certification as credible and consistent worldwide.
What is NOT included in C.A.T. certification?
C.A.T. certification focuses on visual inspection, oxygen cleaning, valve service, and fill station operation. It does
You will NOT be qualified to:
- Perform requalification tests for high-pressure cylinders
- Apply a RIN (Requalification Identification Number) or hydro stramp to a cylinder
- Perform advanced NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) methods
Is the eLearning module alone enough for certification?
No. eLearning provides essential knowledge development, but hands-on practical training is required to earn C.A.T. certification.
You must complete:
1. C.A.T. eLearning (4-5 hours, self-paced)
2. Hands-on practical training (4 hours, instructor-led)
Only after successfully completing both components will you receive your C.A.T. certification from Cylindex.