EFNARC Nozzle Operators Certificate
The EFNARC Nozzle Operator Certification is delivered in a structured five-module format designed to verify competency in robotic sprayed concrete application. Each stage builds progressively, ensuring operators meet the technical, practical and safety standards required under current EFNARC guidelines.
Where required, the course structure can be supplemented with additional on-site training to support project specific requirements or operator development prior to final assessment.
The Course
Module 1
Classroom Theory Session
Module 2
Theory
Examination
Module 3
VR Training and Assessment
Module 4
Work Experience
(40 days)
Module 5
Practical
Examination
DAY 1
DAY 5
DAY 2 - 4
not included in course
DAY 5
Module 1
Classroom Theory Session
The Classroom Theory Session is delivered directly by the accredited EFNARC Examiner and forms the technical foundation of the Nozzle Operator Certification process.
The syllabus is continuously reviewed and updated to reflect current industry standards, evolving technologies, and best practice in sprayed concrete application across tunnelling, mining and civil infrastructure projects.
The session covers both fundamental and advanced topics, including:
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Sprayed concrete materials and mix design principles
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Admixtures, accelerators and performance characteristics
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Equipment configuration, setup and maintenance
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Spray systems
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Nozzle techniques, layer build-up and thickness control
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Rebound reduction and quality optimisation
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EFNARC specification compliance and quality assurance
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Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) requirements
This module ensures candidates develop a strong theoretical understanding before progressing to practical assessment and certification.
Duration: 1 Day Timing: Day 1
Module 2
Theory Examination
Each candidate is required to complete an individual online theory examination as part of the EFNARC Nozzle Operator Certification process.
The assessment consists of 30 multiple-choice questions randomly generated from EFNARC’s official question database, ensuring consistency and standardisation across all certified operators.
To achieve a pass, candidates must correctly answer a minimum of 20 questions.
The examination validates the candidate’s understanding of sprayed concrete theory, equipment, safety requirements, and EFNARC compliance principles prior to progressing to practical assessment.
Duration: Half Day Timing: Day 5
Module 3
VR Training and Assessment
Candidates undertake practical assessment scenarios using advanced VR simulators specifically developed for sprayed concrete training and competency evaluation.
The simulator replicates realistic site conditions, enabling operators to demonstrate correct nozzle handling, spraying technique, layer build-up control, rebound management, and safety awareness in a controlled environment.
All required simulation scenarios must be successfully completed to meet the module requirements. Assessment outcomes are verified and recorded by the simulator system itself, ensuring objective and standardised evaluation.
Participants are allocated up to three days of simulator access to complete the required scenarios, with progression based on competency rather than time.
Duration: 3 Days Timing: Day 2 - 4
Module 4
Work Experience
To obtain final EFNARC Nozzle Operator Certification for robotic spraying, candidates must demonstrate a minimum of 40 days of documented robotic sprayed concrete experience.
This experience must be verified through a formal declaration confirming the candidate’s operational involvement in robotic spraying activities.
The verification document may be signed by a supervisor, project manager, shift boss, or other authorised responsible person familiar with the candidate’s work history.
Certification is only issued once both the theoretical, simulator, and practical experience requirements have been successfully satisfied in accordance with EFNARC guidelines.
Duration: 40 days Timing: To be completed before Final Practical Assessment
Module 5
Practical Assessment
Operators who have submitted verified evidence of the required spraying experience will complete the final practical assessment on Day 5 of the EFNARC Nozzle Operator course.
Candidates who do not yet meet the minimum 40 days of documented robotic spraying experience may still attend the course and complete the theoretical and simulator components. These operators may return to complete Module 5 once the required experience has been obtained and formally verified.
Alternatively, arrangements can be made with the Examiner to conduct the final practical assessment on an active job site once the required spraying experience has been achieved.
Final certification is issued only upon successful completion of all modules in accordance with EFNARC requirements.
Duration: Half Day Timing: Day 5