Багамские острова ввели единую лицензию для газовщиков вместо разделения на классы

The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has eliminated the Class A and Class B licensing system for gas service workers, replacing it with a single license tied to an individual’s qualifications, training and demonstrated competency, according to its recently published Statement of Results and Final Decision on Gas Service Worker Regulations. The regulator said the new Gas Service Worker Regulations repeal and replace the provisions of the Gas Supply Regulations governing the licensing of gas service workers, establishing a more flexible framework that reflects the wider range of activities now taking place across The Bahamas’ natural gas sector. Under the previous regulations, Class A license holders were authorized to design, install, repair and maintain gas mains, pipes, fittings and appliances operating at pressures not exceeding 30 millibars, while Class B license holders were limited primarily to the installation, repair, removal and replacement of gas meters. URCA said the previous framework was largely designed around traditional downstream gas activities and did not clearly address newer operations contemplated under the Natural Gas Act, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities, pipelines, transfer systems, storage infrastructure and other activities across the natural gas value chain. “URCA considers that a single license class provides a more proportionate and flexible regulatory approach, particularly given the increasing diversity and technical complexity of activities undertaken across the natural gas sector,” the regulator said. The regulations establish three personnel categories – apprentices, technicians and professional engineers – and set minimum standards for education, industry certification, safety training, practical experience and continuing professional education. Licensed natural gas companies will be required to develop URCA-approved qualification programs for their employees and contractors, while self-employed workers will have to demonstrate their competency directly to the regulator before receiving a license. “Under the regulations, all persons engaging in gas service work are required to hold a gas service worker license issued by URCA,” URCA’s statement explains. “However, where a licensed company has implemented a URCA-approved qualification program, that company may submit license applications on behalf of its employees together with a certification confirming that the individual has successfully completed the company’s qualification program and satisfies the applicable requirements under the Gas Service Worker Regulations. “Upon review of the application and supporting certification, URCA may issue the relevant gas service worker license.” URCA said the framework shifts the focus away from rigid license classifications toward ensuring workers perform only those activities for which they are demonstrably qualified, while preserving the regulator’s inspection, audit and enforcement powers. The statement of results said licensed companies and workers remain subject to license suspensions, revocations, fines and criminal penalties if work is carried out outside an individual’s authorized qualifications.