Canadian Locator Technician Standards Table of Contents

Transcription

1 Canadian Locator Technician Standards Version 1.0 February 2006

2 Canadian Locator Technician Standards Table of Contents Introduction... 3 CAPULC Locator Technician Standards... 4 Unit 1: Theory of Electromagnetic Locating... 6 Unit 2: Use of the Transmitter... 7 Unit 3: Use of the Receiver... 8 Unit 4: Marking Procedures Unit 5: Knowledge of Facilities Unit 6: Visual Observation Skills Unit 7: Safe Work Practices and Regulations Unit 8: Locate Request Procedure, Documentation, and Mapping Unit 9: Federal, Provincial and Local Regulations Unit 10: Communication Skills Locator Technician Competency Step 1: Perform equipment operation check Step 2: Verify scope of ground disturbance Step 3: Visually inspect locate area Step 4: Locate and mark the facility (ies) Step 5: Recognize and react to abnormal operating conditions Glossary of terms Summary... 25

3 Introduction The locating Industry has experienced unprecedented growth in the past few years, which has created a demand for minimum industry standards and a competency verification process. Locating contractors support this demand as a necessary step toward the recognition of buried facility locating as a professional occupation. The Canadian Association of Pipeline and Utility Locating Contractors (CAPULC) was founded in April Its mission is "to define, establish and maintain the highest possible standards for the underground pipeline and utility locating industry in Canada." This document is the result of efforts to determine what makes a competent Locator Technician and presents the minimum standards acceptable to the locating industry. The standards provide a template to allow verification of the competency of anyone seeking recognition as a Locator Technician. CAPULC defines a qualified, competent Locator Technician as one who has that combination of knowledge, experience and resources to perform the locate at hand safely, accurately and with confidence. A qualified, competent Locator Technician will understand the limits of his or her particular combination of knowledge, experience and resources and recognize when assistance or advice is necessary. Knowledge acquired through formal training must be coupled with its practical application and field experience throughout a Locator Technician s career to improve qualifications, confidence and competency. Formal training courses are available that offer an attendance certificate that states the attendee has been taught these basic standards and has completed and passed both written and practical tests based on the course content. Successful completion of such a course is one of the required components for anyone wishing to be considered a competent Locator Technician and may be considered as pre-job training for a locator assistant. These Standards have been accepted and approved by CAPULC s membership and are published and promoted as the minimum qualifications of a Locator Technician. The component elements of these Standards are a basic guideline for all types of locating with additional knowledge, training and experience required for specific applications. These Standards, combined with Locating Industry Recognized Practices, as identified and published by CAPULC, will constitute industry best practice. Locator Technicians will require additional training to satisfy the demands of employers, clients and regulatory agencies. Some of this additional training may be incorporated into L.I.R.P.'s.

4 CAPULC Locator Technician Standards The purpose of developing Canadian Locator Technician Standards by the locating industry is to identify the minimum technical qualifications required by any person who wishes to become or to be considered a Locator Technician. These Standards identify the elements of competence and performance criteria required of a basic level Locator Technician. The candidate must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the practices and procedures by passing a formal closed book examination and by demonstrating, in actual or simulated scenarios, the ability to use locating equipment effectively and efficiently. For the purposes of these Standards, Locator Technicians are those persons who, in the course of their normal duties, will be required to identify and mark the approximate horizontal alignment of buried facilities. In the course of their work, Locator Technicians are expected to protect the general public, the environment, other workers and themselves from harm and to request advice and assistance when necessary. The content of the Standards is organized into ten Units of Competence for ease of instruction. Each Unit of Competence is further divided into Elements of Competency and Performance Criteria, which define the minimum technical qualifications for a basic level Locator Technician. CAPULC expects that over time these minimum Standards will be revised and improved as the locating industry raises the expectations of its members. The Locator Technician shall satisfy the Performance Criteria of all Competence Elements in all Units of Competence by using locating equipment to locate at least one of the following types of buried facilities. The test conditions may be real or simulated and may be in a rural or urban setting. 1. Electric electric power wires, cables and conduit; street light wires 2. Gas natural gas; oil; petroleum products; steam; gaseous materials 3. Communications telephone; cable TV; communication, alarm and signal Lines 4. Potable Water 5. Reclaimed water irrigation; slurry 6. Sewer sanitary sewer; storm sewer; culverts; drain lines 7. Other underground structures

5 The Locator Technician must demonstrate the knowledge and understanding in the Units of Competency for every type of facility which he or she is required to locate. The following are the Units of Competence. 1. Theory of Electromagnetic Locating 2. Use of the Transmitter 3. Use of the Receiver 4. Marking Procedures 5. Knowledge of Facilities 6. Visual Observation Skills 7. Safe Work Practices and Regulations 8. Locate Request Procedure, Documentation, & Mapping 9. Federal, Provincial and Local Regulations 10. Customer Interaction

6 Unit 1: Theory of Electromagnetic Locating The Locator Technician shall, given various simulated or actual site situations or by diagram, demonstrate competency in the knowledge of Electromagnetic Locating Theory. Elements of Competence 1. Demonstrate thorough knowledge and understanding of circuits. 2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of frequency application. Performance Criteria 1. Correctly form a location circuit in actual or simulated setting. 2. Demonstrate ability to recognize cause and effects of signal distortion in actual or simulated setting. 3. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of conductor types and their effects on signal and signal strength.

7 Unit 2: Use of the Transmitter The Locator Technician shall, given various simulated or actual site situations with different types of buried facilities, correctly identify and mark the approximate horizontal alignment of those facilities using locating equipment as per the manufacturer's instructions, accessing all other reference material available all in an effective and safe manner. Elements of Competence 2.1 Demonstrate skill in proper transmitter operation. 2.2 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of principles of electromagnetic theory as it applies to the transmitter. 2.3 Demonstrate proper equipment maintenance. Performance Criteria 2.1a Correctly place transmitter and make all connections correctly including grounding if applicable. 2.1b Correctly use direct connect/induction or clamp methods to locate pre-selected buried facilities, and correctly answer written and verbal questions. 2.1c Select correct power output as required. 2.1d Correctly select and identify the most effective frequency as required. 2.2a Demonstrate the ability to ensure that correct grounding has been achieved. 2.2b Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of proper transmitter use by accurately indicating the presence of pre-selected buried facilities. 2.3a Correctly demonstrate a proper function test as per the manufacturers instructions. 2.3b Demonstrate proper storage, maintenance and cleaning of the transmitter as per the manufacturer and/or company instructions. 2.3c Have knowledge of the power source and demonstrate proper battery test, if applicable.

8 Unit 3: Use of the Receiver The Locator Technician shall, given various simulated or actual site situations with different types of buried facilities, correctly identify and mark the approximate horizontal alignment of those facilities using locating equipment as per the manufacturer's instructions, accessing all other reference material available, all in an effective and safe manner. Elements of Competence 3.1 Demonstrate skill in proper receiver operation. 3.2 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles of electromagnetic theory as it applies to the receiver. 3.3 Demonstrate proper equipment maintenance procedures. Performance Criteria 3.1a Correctly use direct connect/induction or clamp methods to locate the buried facilities, and correctly answer written and verbal questions. 3.1b Correctly use circle sweep, tracing or blind sweep methods to establish the existence and approximate horizontal alignment of buried facilities. 3.1c Adjust frequency, sensitivity, and/or gain, to allow for the best possible facility designation. 3.1d Select the appropriate antenna (peak or null) for the best possible facility designation. 3.1e Correctly operate equipment as supported by the manufacturer's instructions. 3.2a Answer verbal and/or written questions to confirm knowledge and understanding of electromagnetic locating principles as they apply to the receiver. 3.2b Demonstrate the ability to place the receiver at the required distance from the transmitter to avoid air coupling when blind sweeping. 3.2c Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of proper receiver use by accurately locating several buried facilities. 3.3a Correctly demonstrate a proper function test as per the manufacturer's instructions.

9 3.3b Demonstrate proper storage, maintenance and cleaning of the receiver as per the manufacturer and/or company instructions. 3.3c Have knowledge of the power source and demonstrate proper battery test, if applicable.

10 Unit 4: Marking Procedures The Locator Technician shall, given various simulated or actual site situations with different types of buried facilities, mark their approximate horizontal alignment on the surface of the ground using the most appropriate method for the specific task after referencing any federal, provincial or local requirements or regulations concerning such activities. Elements of Competence 4.1 Correctly indicate the approximate horizontal alignment of buried facilities. 4.2 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of different marking systems. Performance Criteria 4.1a Correctly demonstrate the ability to identify and mark the approximate horizontal alignment of buried facilities in compliance with required federal, provincial and local regulatory requirements. 4.1b Correctly demonstrate the ability to identify and mark the approximate horizontal alignment of buried facilities as per the facility owner's standards, which may exceed federal, provincial and local regulatory requirements. 4.1c Correctly demonstrate the placement of marks/markers within the required distances as per federal, provincial and local regulatory requirements or to the facility owner s more stringent standards. 4.2a Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of federal, provincial and local color codes. 4.2b Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the different types of marking devices and proper application methods for their use. 4.2c Demonstrate the ability to recognize and understand industry symbols used to denote buried and above ground facilities.

11 Unit 5: Knowledge of Facilities The Locator Technician shall, given various simulated or actual site situations with different types of buried facilities, correctly identify those facilities and select the most appropriate method of locating each type of facility. Elements of Competence 5.1 Demonstrate the knowledge and understanding of differing types of above ground and/or surface-accessible buried facilities. Performance Criteria 5.1a Correctly identify buried facilities should they be exposed and visible. 5.1b Select the best possible method to locate buried facilities, taking into consideration the above ground observation. 5.1c Correctly identify proper isolation and or bonding/non-bonding procedures, taking into consideration the above ground observation.

12 Unit 6: Visual Observation Skills The Locator Technician shall, given various simulated or actual site situations with different types of buried facilities, correctly identify visible indicators of the possible existence of a buried facility. Elements of Competence 6.1 Correctly identify different utility equipment features. 6.2 Correctly identify different visual evidence of buried facilities being present. Performance Criteria 6.1a Recognize different utility plant features (i.e. utility poles, pedestals, gas meters, manhole covers etc.). 6.1b Recognize facility rights of way (i.e. cut line etc.). 6.2a Recognize areas where previous ground disturbances may have been taken place. 6.2b Recognize trench or excavation scars.

13 Unit 7: Safe Work Practices and Regulations The Locator Technician shall, given various simulated or actual site situations with different types of buried facilities, create safe working environments for the general public, ground disturbers, him or her and others at the work site, following federal, provincial and local health, safety and environmental regulations and practices. Elements of Competence 7.1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of safe work practices. 7.2 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of federal, provincial, and local regulations. 7.3 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the emergency response requirements. Performance Criteria 7.1a Protect him or herself at the work site location, protect the general public in and around the work site location, and protect the work area. 7.1b Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the obligation to refuse to undertake work that may place anyone in imminent danger. 7.1c Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the obligation to stop any work that is unsafe to him or her or others present at the worksite. 7.1d Enter a manhole or vault safely following the required entry policies and regulatory requirements. 7.1e Manage and channel traffic to minimize the disturbance and inconvenience to the general public, within federal, provincial and local regulatory requirements. 7.1f Demonstrate the ability to identify hazardous environments and practice safe work methods to ensure the safety of him or herself and others. 7.1g Recognize and respond to developments with excavators and the general public utilizing effective customer and conflict management skills. 7.1h Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of hazardous situations (animals, natural occurrence) and be able to demonstrate the necessary steps to protect him or herself.

14 7.2a Identify and wear all personal protective equipment as required by federal, provincial or local regulatory requirements, or more stringent company standards. 7.2b Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how and where to quickly access required emergency information when necessary. 7.2c Demonstrate the ability to activate an emergency response plan.

15 Unit 8: Locate Request Procedure, Documentation, and Mapping The Locator Technician shall, given various simulated or actual site situations, demonstrate the ability to effectively find his or her way around the geographic area he or she is responsible for, demonstrate comprehension of the procedures involved with requesting locates, demonstrate knowledge and understanding of ground disturbance practices and procedures and demonstrate sound knowledge and understanding of locate documentation practices by understanding the land survey systems, regulations and requirement of that geographical area. Elements of Competence 8.1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of locate documentation. 8.2 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of map reading. 8.3 Understand locate request terminology to allow for satisfactory locating to be undertaken. 8.4 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of locate requests. Performance Criteria 8.1a Demonstrate ability to create an accurate plot plan in relation to the locate performed. 8.1b Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of a plot plan or as-built plan. 8.1c Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of customer specific facility symbol identification. 8.2a Effectively read street maps or road maps. 8.2b Access and reference land survey systems in for geographical area of responsibility. 8.2c Demonstrate sound knowledge and understanding of the land survey system for geographical area of responsibility. 8.2d Effectively read facility owner maps and drawings to identify and recognize the approximate location of a buried facility. 8.3a Demonstrate through written exam, the understanding of all key words

16 on the locate request documents, city maps and client plot plans for geographical area of responsibility. 8.4a Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of "One-Call" and locate request documentation in geographical area of responsibility. 8.4b Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the locate documentation process and how to complete any associated documentation (request forms, plot plans, site drawings etc.).

17 Unit 9: Federal, Provincial and Local Regulations The Locator Technician shall, given various simulated or actual site situations, access the most relevant federal, provincial or local regulations pertinent to the location and site situation. Elements of Competence 9.1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of federal, provincial and local regulations. Performance Criteria 9.1a Demonstrate a thorough knowledge and understanding of all regulatory requirements as they pertain to geographical area of responsibility. 9.1b Reference and access specific regulatory information as it pertains to the geographical area of responsibility.

18 Unit 10: Communication Skills The Locator Technician shall, given various simulated or actual site situations, interact with customers and others in a professional and effective manner. Elements of Competence 10.1 Promote positive working relationships with the parties involved Communicate effectively with the parties involved. Performance Criteria 10.1a Demonstrate a full understanding of the nature and scope of work being undertaken. 10.1b Complete the requirements of the locate request to the fullest satisfaction possible of the customer, within relevant federal, provincial, local, company or owner regulations/policies. 10.2a Demonstrate a full understanding of the locate request documentation and locate documentation processes and how to complete any associated documentation. 10.2b Have ability to recognize customer sensitivities to the work being undertaken. 10.2c Communicate in a timely and effective manner with all concerned parties. Locator Technician Competency The following are elements of competence which must be demonstrated correctly and completely by the individual performing the locate. These are steps which will allow someone to evaluate the individual s abilities and shall be exhibited as a minimum standard. Locating Steps 1. Perform equipment operation check. 2. Verify scope of ground disturbance. 3. Visually inspect locate area. 4. Locate and mark the facility(ies).

19 5. Recognize and react to abnormal operating conditions. Step 1: Perform equipment operation check Abnormal operating conditions (None Identified) Evaluation Criteria The individual will, before the first locate, be able to: a. Perform equipment operation check in accordance with manufacturers instructions. b. Verify battery strength, if required. c. Initiate corrective action for equipment that is out of specification.

20 Step 2: Verify scope of ground disturbance Abnormal operating conditions (None Identified) Evaluation Criteria The individual will be able to utilize maps/records and engage in discussion with the ground disturber to: a. Determine type of buried facility being located. b. Verify location of job site. c. Verify extent of ground disturbance.

21 Step 3: Visually inspect locate area Abnormal operating conditions Damaged facility Damaged facility coating Ground disturbance activities (including blasting) started prior to locating Evaluation Criteria The individual will be able to: a. Identify conditions/situations that may affect locate. b. Compare records to existing conditions and identify and communicate discrepancies.

22 Step 4: Locate and mark the facility(ies) Abnormal operating conditions Damaged facility Damaged facility coating Ground disturbance activities (including blasting) started prior to locating Missing or broken tracer wire Unable to locate facility Evaluation Criteria The individual will be able to: a. Select type of locating method: I) Conductive ii) Inductive iii) Measurement b. Operate locate equipment in accordance with manufacturer s instructions. c. Initiate action if signal is lost or is insufficient. d. Locate beyond the extent of the work area. e. Mark (paint, flag or stake) the approximate horizontal alignments of the facilities: I) Mark changes in direction. ii) Place marks so there is no doubt about the horizontal alignments of facilities. f. Compare records to existing conditions and identify and communicate discrepancies.

23 Step 5: Recognize and react to abnormal operating conditions Abnormal operating conditions (None Identified) Evaluation Criteria The individual will be able to: a. Recognize abnormal operating conditions that may be encountered while performing the task. b. React to the abnormal operating conditions by: I) Initiating remedial action. ii) Reporting for analysis by: a) Determining if remedial action is required. b) Determining a remedial action to correct the abnormal operating conditions. c. Describe the abnormal operating conditions that an individual could reasonably expect to encounter while performing a locate. d. Describe the response required for each abnormal operating condition. Glossary of terms Buried Facility - Any structure buried below the surface of the ground. CAPULC - Canadian Association of Pipeline and Utility Locating Contractors. Color Code - Systems of colors used for the temporary marking of various types of buried facilities. Competence - Possessing the knowledge, understanding, skill, judgment and experience needed to perform specific tasks and/or objectives satisfactorily, with little or no supervision. Electromagnetic Location - Detection of electromagnetic fields induced onto buried metallic facilities. Element of Competence - What individuals must be able to do to satisfy the Unit of Competence. Hertz - Unit of measure of frequency equal to one cycle per second.

24 L.I.R.P. - Locating Industry Recognized Practice - practices which have been proven effective through experience under a variety of conditions. Locator Technician - An individual competent in the activity of locating buried facilities. Locating - The practice of identifying and marking the approximate horizontal alignment of a buried facility. Manhole - A chamber or vault that provides surface access to a buried facility. Must - Indicates a mandatory requirement. Performance Criteria - Precisely describes an Element of Competence. Range Statement - Describes under what circumstance the performance criteria need to be satisfied. Receiver - Equipment that receives a detectable signal for the purpose of identifying a buried facility. Shall - Indicates a mandatory requirement. Should - Indicates a recommendation or that which is advised but not mandatory. Transmitter - Equipment that transmits a detectable signal for the purpose of identifying an underground facility. Unit Competence - A key area, which has to be carried out if the key purpose is to be achieved.

25 Summary The preceding information can be used to verify the competence of a basic level Locator Technician. In order to be considered competent at this level one must have the knowledge and display the skills described. Training is available that can instruct and then evaluate to these Standards. The knowledge and the skills acquired from this training, combined with practical experience is what is required to be deemed competent in this industry. Acquiring formal training, gaining experience and applying them with L.I.R.P.'s endorsed by CAPULC will assist in ensuring one s success as a Locator Technician. This document defines the minimum standards for an entry level Locator Technician. It describes the knowledge and skills which must be demonstrated with confidence by any entry level Locator Technician that wishes to be considered qualified and competent. CAPULC stresses the importance of having a good understanding of these basics and their application to the gaining of experience. Increased knowledge and increased experience will lead to increased competency. Skill and competency developed through knowledge and experience gained in a variety of areas will become very valuable to a Locator Technician, his or her employer and the employer s clients.