Train the Painter Silver Course in Belfast - Northern Ireland

What is Train the Painter Silver?

Train the Painter Silver is the intermediate, multi-discipline level of the Train the Painter programme.


Formally, it means:


  • You’ve completed the Protective Coatings Applicator (TTP Bronze) module plus one specialist module – either Abrasive Blast Cleaner or Spray Painter training. 
  • Training covers advanced surface preparation, coating types, application methods, quality control and then goes deeper into either blasting or spraying – with both theory and practical work. 
  • On successful written and practical assessment you’re eligible for the TTP Silver card, which is an internationally recognised industrial coatings qualification (Lloyd’s Register accredited) and valid for five years. 


In simple terms: Bronze proves you can apply protective coatings to spec; Silver proves you can also run either the blasting or the spraying side of the job to a professional, auditable standard.


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Northern Ireland’s Only Train the Painter Training Centre!

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Advanced Protective Coatings Training in Northern Ireland.


Train the Painter Silver at Dangle Academy in Belfast is the next step after Bronze for industrial painters and protective coating applicators who want to broaden their skills and gain multi-discipline competence.


As Northern Ireland’s only accredited Train the Painter training centre, Dangle Academy delivers Silver-level training in a purpose-built indoor facility, combining advanced theory with intensive practical work. The programme is designed to meet the requirements of offshore, marine, infrastructure and industrial projects where high-performance coating systems and quality control are critical.


Silver builds on the core Protective Coatings Applicator (Bronze) module and adds a specialist pathway in either Abrasive Blast Cleaning or Spray Painting. This combination is what leads to the recognised Train the Painter Silver card, issued under the SSPC/Corrodere scheme and accepted worldwide.


The programme is accredited by Lloyd’s Register, and follows a standardised syllabus that includes health & safety, access equipment, surface preparation, coating types, application methods, quality control and specialist equipment operation. 

Advanced Coating Application Techniques

 On a typical TTP Silver course you will:


  • Apply advanced surface preparation techniques appropriate to demanding environments (offshore, marine, structural steel, infrastructure).
  • Learn to select and use specialist coating systems, including high-build and multi-coat systems.
  • Develop precision application skills using either blasting equipment or spray equipment, depending on your chosen pathway. 
  • Understand how to control environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, dew point) for coating performance.
  • Follow quality assurance procedures, including measurements, inspection criteria and documentation.


The Silver level is typically chosen by applicators who are working – or plan to work – on higher value projects where specification compliance, traceability and productivity all matter.

Professional Skills & Industry Leadership

Under the guidance of our expert instructors, you’ll refine the advanced capabilities that set leading coating professionals apart. This course is suitable for:


  • Qualified Train the Painter Bronze card holders looking to progress to multi-discipline status.
  • Industrial painters and coating applicators who already have practical experience and want a recognised intermediate qualification.
  • Rope access technicians working in fabric maintenance who need formal coating/blasting or spraying credentials.
  • Maintenance and construction personnel involved in steelwork, marine structures, bridges, tanks, towers or wind energy assets.


Silver is particularly relevant for those working in offshore oil & gas, renewables, shipbuilding, petrochemical, highways and heavy infrastructure, where Train the Painter is often a specified scheme.  

Globally Recognised TTP Silver Certification

Train the Painter Silver is generally delivered across 7 days of combined theory and practical training, depending on the modules being completed and the route chosen (Abrasive Blast Cleaner or Spray Painter alongside the mandatory Protective Coatings Applicator content). 


At Dangle Academy, the course typically includes:


  • Classroom sessions for technical theory, standards and specification requirements.
  • Workshop-based practical training using industrial paint equipment and materials.
  • Tutor-led demonstrations of correct techniques and common defect prevention.
  • Supervised practice to build consistency, productivity and safety.


All specialist equipment, blasting or spraying tools, and training materials are supplied on site, along with appropriate PPE for the practical elements.

Participant Requirements

Before booking, please ensure you meet the following:


  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Hold a Train the Painter Bronze / Protective Coatings Applicator qualification
  • Have a reasonable level of physical fitness
  • Be free from any medical conditions that could affect safety in a workshop environment
  • Wear comfortable, appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear (no open-toe shoes)
  • Be able to understand and follow safety instructions in English


These requirements help ensure a safe and productive training experience for all participants. As Northern Ireland’s only licensed Train the Painter provider, Dangle Academy will supply all specialist equipment and materials for the course. Our instructors will guide you step-by-step so you can focus on building your skills and gaining the confidence to start your journey in the protective coatings industry.

  • What is the Train the Painter Silver course?

    The Train the Painter Silver qualification combines the Protective Coatings Applicator (Bronze) module with either Abrasive Blast Cleaning or Spray Painter modules. It’s designed to prove multi-discipline competence and is accredited by Lloyd’s Register and SSPC, making it recognised worldwide.

  • How long does the course take and what’s included?

    The Silver level typically runs over 7 days, depending on the module selected, either a choice of Spray Painting or Abrasive Blasting to accompany the mandatory Protective Coating Applicator. All PPE, materials, and equipment are provided. You’ll complete both written and practical assessments, and successful candidates receive the TTP Silver wallet card, which also serves as a CSCS Skilled Worker card valid for five years.

  • How does Train the Painter compare to ICATS?

    Both Train the Painter (TTP) and ICATS are recognised industry schemes for industrial coating applicators, but there are key differences:


     • TTP Bronze → Silver → Gold is a tiered pathway, allowing you to progress to multi-discipline qualifications and global recognition.


     • ICATS is a single-level qualification focusing on general industry competence, widely accepted in the UK but less internationally.


     • Many contractors prefer TTP because it includes more practical training hours, is aligned with offshore and rope access work, and is supported by the Society of Protective Coatings amongst other global Associations.


    If you already have ICATS, you can still train in TTP to expand your credentials (please contact us for further details) .

  • How long is the certification valid, and how do I renew it?

    The Train the Painter Silver certificate is valid for five years from the date of issue. Renewal is straightforward — simply attend a recognised refresher or renewal course before your certification expires. As Northern Ireland’s only licensed Train the Painter provider, Dangle Academy offers ongoing refresher training to help you keep your certification up to date and maintain your employability in the coatings industry.

  • Will this help with career progression?

    Absolutely. Silver qualification opens doors to senior applicator roles, specialist contracts, and international opportunities across marine, offshore, renewables, infrastructure, and energy sectors.

Course Content on Train the Painter Silver

Although the exact schedule can vary depending on the pathway, Train the Painter Silver typically covers the following core areas: 


  • Introduction
  • Overview of the Train the Painter scheme and Silver level.
  • Health and Safety
  • Legal duties and industry standards.
  • Hazards of blasting and spraying (dust, noise, rebound, overspray, confined spaces).
  • PPE selection, maintenance and limitations.
  • Access, Plant & Equipment
  • Safe use of access systems (scaffolds, MEWPs, rope access interfaces).
  • Surface Preparation
  • Steel preparation standards (e.g. ISO / SSPC visual standards).
  • Surface cleanliness and profile requirements for different systems.
  • Inspection tools and methods.
  • Coating Types & Systems
  • Generic coating types used in protective coatings (epoxies, polyurethanes, zinc-rich primers, etc.).
  • Coating Application & Quality Control
  • Film thickness targets and measurement.
  • WFT/DFT checks, stripe coating, overlap and edge coverage.
  • Identification and prevention of common coating defects.


The Train the Painter Silver course has been registered by CITB NI for grant assistance to registered in scope employers, terms and conditions apply.

SEE HOW TRAIN THE PAINTER SILVER COMPARES WITH ICATS

Industrial Coatings Training Comparison Chart

Feature / Qualification TTP Bronze TTP Silver TTP Gold ICATS
Purpose Entry-level qualification for new applicators in protective coatings. Advanced multi-discipline qualification combining Bronze with Spray Painting or Abrasive Blast Cleaning. Elite-level qualification recognising full multi-discipline competence in Bronze + Silver modules. General industry qualification for industrial coating applicators.
Accreditation SSPC & Lloyd’s Register SSPC & Lloyd’s Register SSPC & Lloyd’s Register Correx
Recognition UK & internationally recognised UK & internationally recognised, preferred by many offshore/marine contractors Highest recognition in TTP pathway; respected globally for competence Widely recognised in the UK, limited international recognition
Prerequisites None None None None
Modules Covered Health & Safety, Surface Prep, Coating Application Basics Bronze modules + Advanced Spray or Blast Techniques, Environmental Controls, QA/QC Bronze + Silver modules completed in full Health & Safety, Surface Prep, Coating Application Basics
Duration 5 days (typical) 7 days (depending on modules) 10 days (typical) 5 days (typical)
Assessment Theory & practical Theory & practical Theory & practical Theory & practical
Progression Path Can progress to Silver and Gold Next step: Gold (multi-discipline or specialist) Top level – no further TTP progression No tiered progression
Best For New entrants to the industry Experienced applicators seeking senior roles or higher pay Senior applicators aiming for elite, global recognition Contractors requiring UK-only compliance
Extra Benefits CSCS Skilled Worker card (valid 5 years) CSCS Skilled Worker card (5 years), higher earning potential CSCS Skilled Worker card (5 years), highest qualification in pathway CSCS Skilled Worker card (5 years)
E-learning Availability Available via TTP Online Learning Platform Available via TTP Online Learning Platform Available via TTP Online Learning Platform Not available
Valid For 5 Years 5 Years 5 Years 3 Years

Purpose and Application of Silver Certification

EXPLORE THE POWER OF PROTECTIVE COATINGS

A person rappels down the side of a tall beige building, painting. They wear a harness and are attached to a rope.

Career Starters


Ideal for those beginning their journey in the protective coatings industry, providing hands-on skills, accredited training, and a clear route into a rewarding career with long-term employment opportunities worldwide.

Learn More
Person in a protective suit sandblasting, holding a nozzle in a workshop with a perforated wall.

Skills Builders


Those beginning their journey in the protective coatings industry, TTP Silver provides hands-on skills, accredited training, and a clear route into a rewarding career with long-term employment opportunities worldwide.

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Woman in protective suit and respirator sprays paint using a handheld sprayer in an interior workshop.

Industry Switchers


Designed for people moving from other industries into protective coatings. Build the confidence, skills, and certification needed to meet global standards across marine, energy, rail, and infrastructure sectors.

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Experienced Painters


For already skilled painters and coating applicators looking to formalise and advance their expertise. Earn an internationally recognised Train the Painter certification to boost employability and career progression.

Start Your Journey

MASTER MORE ADVANCED COATING SKILLS

TTP Silver Progression Pathway

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TTP Silver Scope

A standard Silver-level certified course is conducted by experienced instructors in industrial coatings, who will lead students through the fundamental principles of protective coatings. Candidates will gain knowledge in proper surface preparation, coating application methods, and health & safety protocols. This globally recognised program serves as an ideal entry point for anyone aspiring to join the protective coatings industry.

Blue square with a white icon of a person in a hard hat reading a document.

What Candidates Learn

By the end of the TTP Silver course, students will have gained theoretical and practical skills in surface preparation, brush and roller application, and safe paint handling procedures. They will also understand coating inspection basics and learn how to follow industry standards with confidence. The intermediate silver level training provides the skills and knowledge needed to higher Train the Painter certifications.

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Why Choose Dangle?

As Northern Ireland’s sole licensed Train the Painter provider, Dangle Academy delivers the Silver module in accordance with Corrodere guidelines and Lloyd’s Register standards. The course is tailored for new and experienced candidates seeking an entry qualification, combining experienced instruction, practical workshops and industry-relevant scenarios, presented in clear, accessible terms and complexity.

Advance Your Career with Train the Painter Silver – Belfast

Forget staying at the same level – this is your chance to upgrade your coating skills and earn one of the industry’s most respected qualifications. The Train the Painter Silver course at Dangle Academy in Belfast – Northern Ireland’s only accredited TTP training centre – is designed for qualified Bronze applicators ready to specialise and stand out in the global protective coatings market.


Over this intensive 7 day programme, you’ll train in either Spray Painting or Abrasive Blast Cleaning, building on your Bronze foundation with advanced techniques, environmental controls, and strict quality assurance standards. You’ll use the same professional-grade equipment and materials found on offshore, marine, industrial, and infrastructure projects worldwide.


This isn’t just classroom learning – you’ll be hands-on in our purpose-built indoor training facility, guided by industry experts with years of real-world experience. By the end of the course, you’ll hold your TTP Silver card, recognised internationally and valued by leading employers, giving you access to higher-paying roles, specialist contracts, and progression to the elite TTP Gold qualification.


Spaces are limited – secure your place today and take the next big step in your industrial painting career.

70%

of coatings failures are due to poor surface preparation.

100%

of well designed coating specs should require stripe coating on edges, welds and bolts.


3

Paint layers should be enough. Every extra coat adds cost and risk—getting prep and first coat right is more effective.

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