ICATS leads the way in coatings training and certification for the industrial coatings industry
Across the corrosion protection and industrial coatings sector, quality, competency, and compliance have never been more important. As infrastructure owners, contractors, and asset managers demand higher levels of assurance, coatings training and certification has become central to project success.
Over the last 20 years, Correx Ltd and the ICATS (Industrial Coating Applicator Training Scheme) programme have increasingly been viewed as the benchmark for coatings training and certification within the protective coatings industry.
Developed to ensure workforce competency, technical understanding, and safe working practices, ICATS is widely recognised throughout the UK and international markets as a leading route for coatings training and certification for industrial coating operatives, inspectors, and supervisors.
Why coatings training and certification matters in industrial coatings
Operated and managed by Correx Ltd on behalf of the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr), ICATS was established with a clear objective: to improve quality standards across the industrial coatings and corrosion protection sectors through structured coatings training and certification.
The scheme provides structured training and certification pathways covering:
- Industrial Coating Applicator training
- Abrasive Blast Cleaning
- Spray Painting
- Inspection and supervisory competencies
- Health & Safety awareness
- Practical site-based assessment standards
As major infrastructure projects continue to specify competency-based requirements, ICATS certification is now increasingly requested across sectors, including:
- Oil & Gas
- Rail Infrastructure
- Highways & Bridges
- Marine & Offshore
- Energy & Renewables
- Water Utilities
- Industrial Manufacturing
Growing demand for coatings training and certification
Growing industry adoption of ICATS certification demonstrates a commitment to raising standards and reducing long-term asset failures caused by poor surface preparation and coating application.
Many principal contractors and asset owners now regard ICATS certification as a minimum requirement for project participation, recognising the value of independently verified training and practical competence.
Correx Ltd continues to work closely with training providers, contractors, inspectors, and industry stakeholders to ensure the scheme evolves alongside modern coating technologies, environmental requirements, and workforce expectations.
The future of coatings training and certification
As the coatings industry faces increasing pressure to deliver longer asset life cycles, improved sustainability, and reduced maintenance costs, coatings training and certification remains critical to competency and quality assurance.
Correx and ICATS are proud to play a leading role in supporting these objectives by helping to develop a skilled, qualified, and safety-conscious workforce capable of meeting the highest industry expectations.
The continued recognition of ICATS as an industry standard reflects the dedication of the trainers, assessors, contractors, and coating professionals who uphold these standards every day.
FAQ’s
What is ICATS in coatings training and certification?
ICATS, the Industrial Coating Applicator Training Scheme, is a structured programme for the registration, training, and certification of industrial surface preparation and coating operatives.
Why is coatings training and certification important?
It helps employers and clients verify practical competence, supports safer working practices, and reduces the risk of coating failure caused by poor preparation or application.
Who manages ICATS?
ICATS is owned by the Institute of Corrosion and operated through Correx Ltd, which administers the scheme on its behalf.
How often does ICATS certification need renewing?
Trainers and operatives require re-certification after three years and renewal after nine years.