IDEST Hydrostatic Cylinder Inspection Course

Why take this IDEST Hydrostatic Cylinder Inspection Course?

Hydrostatic testing is a legal-safety critical task that protects divers and staff alike. This practical, workshop-first course shows you how to set up, run and record a hydrostatic test in line with IDEST methodology and UK best practice, building real competence you can take straight back to your workshop.

Who it’s for

• Dive shop & service technicians looking to formalise skills

• Club equipment officers and cylinder custodians

• Centre owners/managers who want in-house capability

• Engineers and mechanically minded new starters entering servicing

What you’ll learn (key outcomes)

• Standards & responsibilities: IDEST scheme overview; roles, safety, traceability

• Cylinder identification: materials, markings, thread forms, test intervals

• Pre-test inspection: visual checks, rejection criteria, valve removal & prep

• Hydrostatic test setup: water jacket system, calibration & safety checks

• Running the test: filling & venting, pressure hold, expansion measurement

• Interpreting results: permanent vs elastic expansion, pass/fail decisions

• Post-test process: drying, internal protection, stamping/engraving, labelling

• Records & compliance: logbooks, certificates, serialisation, audits

• Workshop safety: PPE, rig guarding, emergency procedures & housekeeping

Format, duration & locations

• Format: Instructor-led workshop with demonstrations and supervised practice

• Duration: One day (approx. 8 hours, including breaks)

• Location:  Swindon (serving Berkshire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire & the West)

• Group size: Small cohorts for maximum hands-on time

Assessment & certification

• Informal knowledge checks plus a practical competency assessment on the hydro rig.

• This course supports progression within the IDEST scheme; where final accreditation or test-station approval is required, candidates must meet IDEST’s current criteria at an IDEST-recognised facility.

What’s included

• Instructor delivery & workshop access

• Use of hydro test equipment and training cylinders

• Course handbook & example documentation templates

• Refreshments (tea/coffee/water)

What to bring

• Photo ID for certification

• PPE: safety footwear, eye protection (we can supply if needed)

• Note-taking materials

Entry requirements

• Minimum age 18

• Comfortable following technical processes; prior servicing experience helpful but not essential

After this course

Graduates can competently assist with or conduct hydrostatic cylinder tests under local procedures, improving turnaround, safety and compliance within their centre or club. Ask about our Cylinder Visual Inspection, Valve Servicing, and O₂ Cleaning courses to complete your skillset.