Become aware and understand the Operator Qualification regulations that allow you to work in the pipeline industry.

What you'll learn

Understand the background and history of the Federal pipeline safety regulations that resulted in this regulatory requirement.

Review the key elements of the natural gas and the petroleum regulations found in Federal Regulations at Parts 192 & 195.

Understand and apply the 4-part test to determine pipeline activities that are covered tasks and thus subject to the regulations.

Identify those company employees and contract employees that are subject to the OQ (operator qualification) regulations.

Understand the key definitions that are a part of the Fereral Code of Regulations for Operator Qualifications.

Review sample written OQ written plans to verify compliance with the applicable regulations.

Compare various evaluation methods used to qualify pipeline employees that perform covered tasks.

Determine how to establish length of time for individual qualifications and set frequency for re-evaluations.

Review record keeping requirements for individual qualification records.

Requirements

A limited and/or basic knowledge or experience in the natural gas or petroleum pipeline industry would be beneficial but not necessary for this course. This course will provide basic regulatory requirements to help you understand what if required to establish the qualification of certain pipeline personnel. It will also provide insight into the intent of the relevant regulations.

Description

Recent major pipeline accidents in the United States have resulted in the Federal government through the Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to develop and implement pipeline personnel qualification regulation for most pipeline and contract employees. Both natural gas and petroleum pipeline companies have to have a program to prove the knowledge, skills, and abilities of their employee to work on their pipelines.Pipeline companies must evaluate the qualification, not only of their company personnel but also contract individuals that perform work on their pipelines which are subject to Federal and State pipeline safety regulations.Upon completion of this course you will be able to fully understand the intent of the applicable regulatory requirements and the effect not only on you but on the company you work for. If you are in a management position you will be able to analyze and review your own company OQ program for compliance with those requirements. The goal is to insure you can comply with the regulations during an inspection by Federal and/or state pipeline inspectors.This course is divided into four major subject areas. The course material is presented via slide presentation with references and links to critical information web sites.Major Areas:1. Background and history of operator qualification regulations.2. How the regulations were developed and finalized.3. Review each of the operator qualification regulations.4. Key elements of the operator qualification rule.