What the BOAS course covers

BOAS training typically covers a wide range of essential topics for those responsible for the day-to-day operation or management of steam and hot water boilers. Key subject areas include:

  • Combustion theory and efficiency principles
  • Safe boiler operation and maintenance routines
  • Boiler controls and automation
  • Emissions and environmental standards
  • Health, safety and legislative compliance
  • Fault finding and risk mitigation

The course is delivered through both classroom and practical learning and is followed by formal written and verbal assessments.

Who should take the BOAS course?

The BOAS qualification is designed for:

  • Anybody operating or managing a steam or hot water plant
  • Maintenance engineers with responsibility for boiler performance
  • Site managers or supervisors overseeing combustion plant and or boiler equipment
  • Health and safety officers working with steam or hot water systems

While prior hands-on experience is recommended, the BOAS course itself provides comprehensive support materials and expert guidance throughout.

Benefits of BOAS accreditation

Holding a BOAS qualification offers a number of measurable advantages to both the individual and their organisation:

  • Regulatory compliance – Accreditation is recognised by insurers and safety bodies such as HSE, demonstrating a proactive approach to best practice.
  • Reduced downtime – Trained operators are better able to manage faults, perform preventative maintenance and avoid costly outages.
  • Improved safety – The risk of accidents, emissions breaches, and operational failures is significantly reduced.
  • Efficiency gains – Understanding combustion processes and boiler control strategies supports improved fuel efficiency and cost savings.

For businesses focused on continuous improvement, BOAS contributes directly to operational KPIs and sustainability targets.

How to enrol in a BOAS course

Candidates can apply directly through an accredited training provider such as Dunphy. A typical enrolment process involves:

  1. Application & eligibility check
  2. Completion of training course
  3. Assessment by an independent CEA assessor
  4. Certification (by certification officer if deemed competent) 

The BOAS qualification is valid for five years. Recertification is required thereafter to maintain accredited status and stay up to date with industry developments.

Frequently asked questions

Is the BOAS course mandatory?
 While not legally required, many insurers and HSE auditors expect evidence of formal operator training. BOAS is considered the industry standard.

Can the BOAS course be taken online?
 Dunphy does not offer online modules. The course will be classroom based with independent face to face assessments.

Does Dunphy provide BOAS training?
 Yes, Dunphy offers training in cat 1,2,3,4&5. The training will then be certified by the CEA.

Key takeaways

Investing in BOAS certification is a forward-thinking decision for any organisation operating industrial combustion systems. The training provides competency through training and certification, enhances safety, and ensures operators are equipped to meet the demands of modern boilerhouse management.

To learn more or enquire about enrolment, visit Dunphy’s dedicated boiler training page.