Biogas Plant Operator Training Programme

Our Biogas Plant Operator Training Programme is a structured, hands-on learning experience designed to equip operators with the skills and knowledge needed to safely manage and optimise anaerobic digestion (AD) facilities.

Covering essential topics from safety compliance and plant operations to maintenance and process monitoring, this programme ensures that staff are fully trained, compliant, and confident in operating AD plants.

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DAY 1

Introduction to Biogas and Anaerobic Digestion (AD)

  • Overview of anaerobic digestion and biogas production

  • Key components of a biogas plant

  • Role of operators in plant performance and compliance

  • Benefits of biogas: energy production, digestate use, environmental impac

DAY 2 - 3

Health, Safety, and Environmental Compliance

  • Legislation & Compliance

    • Environmental permits and site-specific compliance requirements

    • Waste management regulations

    • H&S regulations (HSE, ATEX, PUWER, COSHH, LOLER)

  • Hazards & Risk Assessments

    • Gas safety: methane, H2S, CO2 risks

    • Fire and explosion risks (DSEAR compliance)

    • Confined spaces and working at height

    • PPE requirements and emergency procedures

  • Emergency Response Training

    • Fire and gas leak procedures

    • First aid and spill response

    • Alarm systems and emergency shutdown

DAY 4 - 5

Biogas Plant Operations

  • Plant Components & Functionality

    • Feedstock reception, preparation, and feeding systems

    • Digesters, gas upgrading, and CHP/G2G operations

    • Digestate storage and handling

    • Piping, valves, and flare system

  • Operational Procedures

    • Routine inspections and plant walkovers

    • Start-up and shutdown procedures

    • Routine maintenance and lubrication schedules

    • Control systems, SCADA, and remote monitoring

DAY 6 - 7

Process Monitoring and Troubleshooting

  • Process Control & Performance Monitoring

    • Understanding key process parameters (pH, FOS/TAC, VFA, gas yield)

    • Optimising feedstock mix and retention times

    • Identifying signs of biological imbalance

  • Troubleshooting Common Issues

    • Foam formation and digester upset management

    • High/low biogas yields

    • Equipment failures and fault-finding

DAY 8 - 9

Maintenance and Asset Management

  • Routine Maintenance & Inspections

    • Preventative maintenance schedule

    • Cleaning and servicing of critical equipment

    • Monitoring wear and tear

  • Breakdown Response & Repairs

    • Identifying mechanical and electrical faults

    • Basic troubleshooting for pumps, mixers, CHP/G2G units

    • When to escalate to engineers

DAY 10

Environmental Management and Reporting

  • Environmental Monitoring & Reporting Requirements

    • Record-keeping for compliance

    • Emission and odour control

    • Digestate quality monitoring

  • Waste and Digestate Management

    • Digestate compliance standards (PAS110, etc.)

    • Handling and storage best practices

FINAL DAY

Competency Assessment & Certification

  • Theory Test (multiple choice and practical scenarios)

  • Practical Assessment (hands-on troubleshooting, walkover inspections)

  • Certification of competency for successful candidates

Additional Training Modules (Advanced)

  • ATEX Awareness and DSEAR Compliance

  • Electrical and Mechanical Systems (for advanced maintenance teams)

  • SCADA and Process Control Optimisation

  • CHP and Gas-to-Grid Performance Optimisation

Delivery Methods

  • Classroom-Based Learning – Theoretical sessions with presentations

  • On-the-Job Training – Hands-on training at the plant

  • Mentoring & Shadowing – New operators paired with experienced staff

  • E-Learning & Refresher Courses – Ongoing development and knowledge checks

A conference room with six yellow and black chairs around a wooden oval table, each with a glass water bottle and a folder. A wall-mounted screen displays a presentation titled "Managing safety" and several framed aerial photos hang on the white walls.

FAQ’s

  • It’s designed for new and existing biogas plant operators, maintenance staff, and anyone involved in the daily running of anaerobic digestion facilities.

  • Yes, BioConsult offers both on-site and classroom-based options, depending on your operational requirements.

  • The full programme runs for 11 days, including competency assessments, with additional modules available upon request.

  • Our training covers all relevant UK health, safety, and environmental regulations, including HSE and EA standards.

Get in touch

Ready to book your training?

Get in touch with our team to schedule a consultation or learn more about our AD industry training services and programs.