OFTEC Oil Firing (OFT101/105E) exam-day guide
OFTEC Oil Firing (OFT101/105E) · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo ID
Bring current photographic identification (e.g. passport or driving licence). Confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted and whether a second form is required.
Assessment appointment confirmation
Bring the booking confirmation or admission details sent by the assessment centre, including time, address and any candidate number.
PPE
Safety footwear, overalls or workwear, and eye protection for any practical tasks. Confirm with the provider exactly what PPE they supply versus what you must bring.
Hand tools
Bring the hand tools you normally use for oil firing service work. Confirm with the provider whether tools are supplied on site or you must bring your own.
Test instruments
If permitted, bring your own combustion analyser, multimeter, manometer and thermometer. Confirm with the provider whether personal instruments may be used or centre equipment is mandatory and must be calibrated.
Manufacturer instructions and reference material
Check whether any technical documents, charts or formula sheets are provided or permitted. Confirm with the provider what reference material is allowed into the assessment area.
Notebook and pen
For any permitted written notes or calculations. Confirm with the provider whether notes may be taken into practical or written elements.
Knowledge of assessment format
Know in advance whether the assessment includes written/multiple-choice papers, practical tasks, or both, and the pass criteria. Confirm with the provider the exact structure and scoring.
Travel and timing plan
Plan your route and arrive with time to spare for registration and any briefing. Confirm with the provider the arrival time and late-arrival policy.
Medical and access needs
If you need adjustments for a disability or medical condition, arrange this in advance. Confirm with the provider their reasonable-adjustment process and deadlines.
Personal medication and refreshments
Bring any personal medication and water/snacks if permitted. Confirm with the provider the rules on food, drink and breaks in the assessment area.
Review of key safety procedures
Revise safe isolation, lock-off, fire-safety and emergency shutdown procedures before the day, as these are commonly assessed in practical oil firing work.
Plan the day
Re-read the assessment specification and confirm the format, pass marks and permitted equipment with the provider. Check your PPE and tools are complete and serviceable; arrange replacement of anything missing.
Do a final revision pass over safety-critical topics: isolation and lock-off, flue and ventilation checks, combustion analysis interpretation, and emergency procedures. Practise any calculations you will need.
Pack your bag: ID, confirmation, PPE, tools, instruments and any permitted reference material. Check travel arrangements and the centre address, and confirm start time.
Get a good night's sleep and avoid last-minute cramming. Eat properly and hydrate.
Eat breakfast, arrive early for registration, and re-check you have your ID and confirmation. Follow any sign-in and briefing instructions from centre staff.
Listen carefully to the invigilator or assessor briefing. Read each question or task fully before starting, manage your time across sections, and work safely and methodically on practical tasks.
If a task is unclear or equipment is faulty, raise it with the assessor immediately rather than guessing. Record answers clearly and check your work before submitting.
Rules to check
Bring valid photographic ID; you may be refused entry without it. Confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted.
Follow all centre safety rules and assessor instructions at all times, especially during practical tasks involving fuel, electricity and flue gases.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the assessment, and do not bring in unauthorised notes, phones or reference material. Confirm with the provider the policy on personal belongings and electronic devices.
Breaks are normally at the assessor's discretion; if you need to leave the room, ask permission. Confirm with the provider the break arrangements for your specific assessment.
Scoring and pass criteria are set by the awarding body; ask the provider in advance how each element is marked and what the pass mark is.
If you believe an assessment condition was unfair or equipment was faulty, report it to the assessor at the time and follow the provider's appeals or special-consideration process afterwards.
Declare any medical condition or access need to the provider in advance so reasonable adjustments can be arranged.