ACS - Core Domestic and Non-Domestic Emergency Service (CESP1), Gas Metering (CMA1/CMA3)
The following training and assessment packages are certificated by LCL Awards to industry led standards
| Title | Content type |
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Sector |
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Qualification Title |
ACS - Core domestic and non-domestic emergency service (CESP1) and gas metering work (CMA1/CMA3). |
LCL Qualification Code |
CESP1 or CMA1/CMA3 plus associated pipework or meter elements |
Qualification Certificate Expiry |
5 years. Candidates can undertake the re-assessment of any element up to 6 months early without losing any time (MOT Style). Previous certificates must be produced at the time of assessment as evidence. |
Background |
CESP1 and CMA1/CMA3 (or a suitable changeover) are required for any operative wishing to either carry out emergency service gas work or gas metering work. In addition, the operative must hold the relevant pipework or meter element for the work they wish to undertake. |
Prerequisites |
For the initial assessment candidates must meet the entry requirements as published in The Handbook for Learners and Centres For re-assessment candidates must have held the element previously - if this has expired within 12 months of the assessment date the initial assessment must be undertaken. The CMA1/CMA3 core meter gas safety certificate is regarded as an equivalence to a Level 3 QCF/RQF qualification in the gas utilisation sector (which is also aligned to ACS) and satisfies the same gas safety criteria leading to a certificate of competence recognised by the Gas Safe Register. |
Assessment method |
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Related qualifications |
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Related downloads |
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Related links and support material |
Gas Safety (installation and use) Regulations Technical Standards Gas Safe Register |
Frequently asked questions about this course
Is gas still a popular choice with candidates?
Yes, gas is still a popular choice. The majority of UK homes are still heated by gas, which means even after new gas boilers stop being installed in 2035, there will still be around 23 million homes using a gas boiler. These boilers will need servicing and maintenance for many years to come. Gas also provides the perfect stepping stone into heat pumps and other renewable technologies. LCL Awards' Level 3 heat pump courses are designed for qualified heating engineers (gas or oil).
What qualifications do you need for gas?
To become a gas installer you need to undertake specific qualifications, have relevant experience and join the Gas Safe register. You can achieve Level 3 gas qualifications through an apprenticeship scheme, which usually takes two to three years, combining a work placement with college, or you can complete a Managed Learning Programme (MLP), which covers everything you need to become a gas engineer without going through an apprenticeship. The MLP also includes a portfolio which demonstrates 'real-world' experience, mentored by an existing Gas Safe installer. At the end of a MLP, you would usually complete ACS certification in your chosen areas of gas. All gas installers must complete a core gas safety element (for example CCN1) and then specific modules such as catering, metering or gas fires, for example. Once you have successfully completed ACS assessments, you can join the Gas Safe register - this is a legal requirement for all gas installers. ACS certification must be renewed every 5 years.
What qualifications do I need to be a gas engineer in the UK?
To become a qualified gas engineer in the UK, follow these steps:
- Train - either as an apprentice, where you will complete a Level 3 gas qualification and combine time in college with work with an employer, or through a Managed Learning Programme (MLP). An MLP is an alternative route to becoming a qualified gas engineer usually completed through a private training centre.
- Gain hands-on experience - through your employer as an apprentice, or by completing an on-site portfolio, a key part of the MLP. Any work experience must be supervised by a Gas Safe registered installer.
- Undertake an ACS Training and Assessment: Achieve the relevant Core Gas Safety element (for example CCN1) and elements for specific appliances (e.g., boilers, cookers, fires).
- Register with Gas Safe: This is mandatory for all gas engineers.