Pipeline Training & Assessment Program (PTAP)

Transcription

1 National Center for Construction Education and Research Pipeline Training & Assessment Program (PTAP) Program Resource and Implementation Guide Working together to ensure a skilled and qualified workforce for the safety and integrity of America s pipelines.

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3 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION TO PIPELINE OPERATOR QUALIFICATION REGULATIONS... 1 PHMSA... 1 Pipeline Operator Qualification... 1 INTRODUCTION TO AND THE STANDARDIZED TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT PROCESSES... 4 s Mission... 4 Benefits of Technician Training to the Pipeline Marketplace... 4 Applying the Pipeline Training and Assessment Program... 5 PTAP Step-by-Step: Becoming Operator Qualified... 6 BECOMING AN -ACCREDITED TRAINING SPONSOR OR ASSESSMENT CENTER Accreditation Master Trainer Certification Pipeline Technician Instructor Certification The Standardized Technician Training Process Standardized Pipeline Curricula ( s Contren Learning Series) National Craft Assessment and Certification Process National Registry Determining Whether to Administer the PTAP Steps to Become an -Accredited Training Sponsor and/or Accredited Assessment Center RESOURCES AND CONTACTS LINKS TO ADDITIONAL REFERENCES FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS TERMS AND DEFINITIONS Revision Date 1/5/2011 ii

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5 INTRODUCTION TO PIPELINE OPERATOR QUALIFICATION REGULATIONS PHMSA The Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration was established in 2004 as an agency under the Department of Transportation (DOT). PHMSA is tasked with enforcing regulations for the safe, reliable, and environmentally sound operation of the nation's 2.3 million mile pipeline transportation system and the nearly 1 million daily shipments of hazardous materials by land, sea, and air. For more information about PHMSA and pipeline regulations, visit Pipeline Operator Qualification The United States DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA, requires that pipeline operators develop a written qualification program to evaluate personnel and contractor ability to perform covered tasks and to recognize and respond to abnormal operating conditions that may be encountered while performing covered tasks. Contractors will be required to follow the operator s written plan. This is a performance-based qualification standard. The regulations can be found in 49 CFR Part 192 Subpart N GAS, and 49 CFR Part 195 Subpart G LIQUID, which became effective October 26, To provide guidance to the pipeline industry, the American Petroleum Institute s Subcommittee on Training developed API publication 1161, titled Guidance Document for the Qualification of Liquid Pipeline Personnel. This document provides covered task list recommendations and is designed to help pipeline operators comply with the rule. Pipeline operators may choose to use all or part of this document to design a program to comply with the qualification rule, or may elect to develop their own program independent of this publication. Pipeline operators may also choose to modify an existing program. The guidance document represents the consensus position of the pipeline companies involved in the development of the publication and is designed as an aid in developing a qualification program. Additional sources of information on the pipeline operator qualification regulation include: Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (DOT)- Transportation Safety Institute Revision Date 1/5/2011 1

6 The following is a brief summary of some key points of the regulation: KEY DATES August 27, 1999 April 27, 2001 October 28, 2002 December 16, 2004 Final rule published: Reference the Federal Register, Volume 64, Number 166, published Friday, August 27, 1999, pages Operators must have written qualification program complete. Operators must complete the qualification of individuals performing covered tasks. Observation on the job is no longer acceptable as the sole method of evaluation. December 16, 2004 Training should be provided to pipeliners as appropriate. 1. The rule currently applies to operations and maintenance tasks only and does not apply to new construction. New construction, however, is becoming more scrutinized by PHMSA. Contractors need to be familiar with their operators various definitions and scopes of new construction tasks in their OQ plans. 2. The purpose of the rule is to reduce accidents related to human error by ensuring that individuals who perform covered tasks are qualified to perform those tasks. 3. The pipeline workforce must be evaluated and qualified to perform covered tasks and to recognize/react to abnormal operating conditions. 4. Those affected by the rule include contractor employees, subcontractor employees, operator employees, and anyone else who performs covered tasks on a pipeline. 5. API determined the covered tasks found in API Publication 1161 Guidance Document for the Qualification of Liquid Pipeline Personnel by applying the regulation s four-part rule as follows: Is the task performed on a pipeline facility? and; Is the task an operations or a maintenance task? and; Is the task required by Part 192 or 195? and; Does it affect the operation or integrity of the pipeline? All four parts must be answered with a yes to be considered a covered task. 6. -accepted evaluation methods are written examination and/or observation of performance on the site or in a pre-approved simulated environment. Simulation must include the activities to be performed in the field, including all necessary equipment and adherence to safety rules. Verbal simulation and/or narration of a task is NOT an acceptable means of evaluation. 7. In lieu of on-the-job observation, performance verifications may be done through controlled observation in a laboratory environment. In some cases, it may be necessary to use a simulator to replicate conditions and standards for the task to be evaluated. 8. If a participant requests an accommodation for the assessment or performance verification, a note from a medical professional qualified to diagnose the disability must be presented and kept on file with the participant s records. Neither the lack of general Revision Date 1/5/2011 2

7 reading ability nor the lack of the ability to read English qualifies a participant for ADA accommodations. Translations are NOT permitted. 9. If the accommodation requires the assessment to be read aloud, it must be done one-onone by an individual who is not proficient in the area being assessed. Literacy or language ability are not acceptable reasons for reading an assessment aloud. However, module exams may be read aloud. If utilizing modules from the Contren Learning Series for OQ, verify that it is accepted by the owner, and refer to page 27 of the Accreditation Guidelines for more information on module testing. 10. Retesting for assessments must adhere to the policies on p. 49 of the Accreditation Guidelines: Requalification dates must be determined for each covered task. 12. Recordkeeping required on the qualifications of employees includes tasks qualified to perform, method of qualification, and current status. Per the regulations, prior qualification records must be retained regardless of an employee s status for a minimum of five years. requires that module written exam and performance test copies be stored for three years, either digitally or in hard copy form. For assessments, demographic forms, inventory control logs, destruction logs, and answer keys for paper assessments must be kept for a minimum of three years. See page 52 of the Accreditation Guidelines for more information on the requirements for recordkeeping: If federal OQ regulations or specific pipeline owners mandate longer recordkeeping requirements, then the stricter requirements shall apply. 13. Individuals who are qualified to do a covered task must be trained appropriately. This can be accomplished through the Contren Learning Series or other methods as appropriate. Revision Date 1/5/2011 3

8 INTRODUCTION TO AND THE STANDARDIZED TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT PROCESSES The National Center for Construction Education and Research () is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) education foundation established in 1995 by 11 of the world s largest and most progressive construction and maintenance contractors and several national contractor associations. was founded to address the severe workforce shortage facing our industry and to develop standardized Construction and Maintenance curricula. This curricula comprises the Contren Learning Series. Today, is supported by hundreds of leading contractors, manufacturers and national trade associations. develops and publishes Construction, Pipeline and Maintenance curricula for more than 45 crafts. In addition, the National Registry provides students with transcripts and credentials to document their training accomplishments. also offers Craft Skills Assessments, Construction Management Academies, and Safety programs, and supports nationwide School-To-Career efforts. s vision is to be recognized by industry, government and education as the training, assessment, certification, and career development standard for the construction, maintenance, and pipeline craft professional. s Mission To build a safe, productive, and sustainable workforce of craft professionals. Benefits of Technician Training to the Pipeline Marketplace Applying s standardized training process to the pipeline training curricula allows pipeline owners and contractors in the United States to establish the benchmark for acceptable skill and competency levels within the pipeline industry. This process assists training organizations in developing and/or improving standardized pipeline training programs that effectively match their resources and operating conditions while responding to regulatory demands and the needs of the industry. The process also recognizes training organizations that meet the minimum standards of competence, warranting regulatory, public, and professional confidence. This in turn fosters national unity within the pipeline industry for the mutual benefit of individual technicians, owners, contractors, and ultimately pipeline users and society. The following points provide the practical basis for the benefits of using the standardized training process: As U.S. industries compete more fiercely for fewer qualified workers, a professional, accredited training program that offers a clearly defined career path will attract and retain high-caliber workers. In today s highly competitive markets, pipeline operators demand increased project quality, and only those contractors with a trained and skilled workforce capable of meeting that demand will succeed. Revision Date 1/5/2011 4

9 In general, pipeline operators, PHMSA, OSHA, EPA, etc., do not tolerate contractors with unsafe, unskilled workers, and are holding employers liable for failing to train their employees. Skilled workers are less likely to have accidents and recordable injuries. A professional, skilled workforce increases overall client satisfaction, thereby increasing the potential for repeat business for both the pipeline owner and contractor. Trained workers are more capable of identifying potential problems and making innovative, cost-reducing solutions. Standardized technician training provides an industry-wide standard of recognition, career advancement opportunities, and a personal sense of accomplishment and pride for workers. These benefits result in safer, more cost-effective operation of pipelines and a higher quality end product. Applying the Pipeline Training and Assessment Program (PTAP) A flexible approach is essential to meeting the diverse operator qualification needs of the pipeline industry. Using the combined expertise of pipeline operators and contractors, has adapted its successful standardized craft training process to assist the pipeline industry in meeting the workforce qualification requirements of the operator qualification rule. By applying s standardized training and assessment process (Figures 1 through 3) in conjunction with the PTAP materials, pipeline contractors and operators have a variety of resources and methods to use in implementing an operator qualification plan for their workforce. PTAP offers written assessments and performance verifications that are directly linked to covered tasks, and in some cases, subtasks. The PTAP curricula, through individual modules, also offer written examinations and performance tests that are linked directly to covered tasks. Operators and pipeline contractors can determine which methods they will recognize and how those methods will be used in verifying the qualifications of their workers. Revision Date 1/5/2011 5

10 PTAP Step-By-Step: Becoming Operator Qualified STEP ONE - Determine Operator Qualification Needs Be sure to begin by reviewing the Covered Task List at the following link ( to determine the covered tasks that your workers perform. These are the tasks for which qualification is required. IMPORTANT: If you are unsure of what covered tasks are required, contact your pipeline operator(s). Only pipeline operators can determine what covered tasks will be required of workers, contractors, and subcontractors working on their pipelines. By referencing the Covered Task List spreadsheet, you will be able to determine the assessment and/or training module needed to evaluate the covered task. STEP TWO Determine Training and Qualification Needs Using the required covered tasks, as determined by the pipeline operator, establish your training needs. The Pipeline Training and Assessment Program is comprised of knowledge- and skill-driven areas of evaluation: Pipeline Curricula Training: For areas where a pipeliner may need more instruction to qualify under the DOT regulation, the Pipeline Curricula is divided into six areas of instruction and encompasses the Covered Tasks List. Each module within the curricula requires both a written and performance test. Written Skills Assessment: Experienced pipeline professionals may be able to complete certain written assessments without the need for training. Please see Pipeline Written Assessment Specifications. Performance Verification: Each covered task includes a performance verification which determines the practical skill level of a pipeliner. Performance Verification requirements are determined by each pipeline operator. To achieve qualification, you must complete one or more of the above as determined by your operator. STEP THREE Find an -Accredited Training Sponsor and/or Accredited Assessment Center Visit and click Find a Training or Assessment Center. You will be able to search for locations based on geographic area and craft areas. You will also be notified if a location offers training and assessments to the public or in-house only. Revision Date 1/5/2011 6

11 Figure 1. Illustration of how the pipeline technician assessment process may be applied to operator qualification. Revision Date 1/5/2011 7

12 Figure 2. Illustration of how the pipeline technician training process may be applied to operator qualification. *Successful completion of ALL levels within a craft area Revision Date 1/5/2011 8

13 Figure 3. PTAP Assessment and Training Process. Assessed/Training Prescribed Optional Revision Date 1/5/2011 9

14 BECOMING AN -ACCREDITED TRAINING SPONSOR OR ASSESSMENT CENTER Accreditation accreditation is provided for organizations that have direct industry linkage and direct control over their training program. In other words, they are responsible for the day-to-day operation of the program and can provide jobs and/or experience directly to trainees (i.e. contractors and owners), or they can directly assist in providing jobs and/or experience to trainees (i.e. association chapters through members). Complete information on accreditation can be found in s Accreditation Guidelines. This document is available for download at or by calling s Customer Service Department at (888) Figures 4 and 5 provide an overview of accreditation and certifications. To be considered for accreditation, a potential sponsor must: Have the resources needed to effectively conduct technician training Use s Contren Learning Series Use Certified Instructors in accordance with the policies set forth Apply for accreditation by submitting a completed Application for Accreditation, Form 100, Application for Training Program Sponsorship Self-Assessment Document, Form 100-1, and an application fee. forms may be found at Provide proof of legitimate business operation (i.e., Certificate of Incorporation, Certificate of LLC, Business License, Company Bylaws, etc.) Provide Letters of Recommendation Provide completed credit application Upon receipt, review, and acceptance of required items, the applicant will be awarded Candidate status. Within six (6) months of activating Candidate status, the Initial Audit will be conducted. After the Initial Audit has been successfully completed and any items of nonconformance corrective actions approved, the Candidate organization becomes accredited. reserves the right to contact training program trainees to obtain feedback on the quality of the program. Accreditation or rescindment of such shall remain the sole right of the Board of Trustees. Revision Date 1/5/

15 Figure 4. The Accreditation Process Figure 5. Certifications Revision Date 1/5/

16 Master Trainer Certification The training process is delivered through a train-the-trainer model. Each ATS must have at least one Master Trainer to train and monitor certified instructors. In order for a Master Trainer to be registered with, the applicant must be approved by an ATS and must meet at least one of the following criteria: Have two years of experience as a trainer, instructor, or educator. Possess an Associate s Degree or higher in education, a pipeline-related field, industrial arts, engineering, chemistry, or a similar field from an accredited post-secondary institution. Have a minimum of two years of experience at a supervisory level or higher in the pipeline industry. For certification, the applicant must successfully complete the four-day (32-hour) Master Trainer Instructor Certification Training Program (MTICTP) that is presented approximately monthly around the country by. -certified Master Trainers train and certify Technician Instructors. Online registration for Master Trainer classes is available. Contact Customer Service for assistance. Pipeline Technician Instructor Certification In order to obtain Pipeline Technician Instructor Certification, a sponsor must approve applicants through the following: The Instructor candidate must be journey-level or must demonstrate a MINIMUM of three years of appropriate field experience in pipeline operations or maintenance, as well as have one of the following: o A diploma from an acceptable secondary or post-secondary institution in the field(s) he/she is to teach o A thorough verification of the education, training, and/or experience level via résumé review submitted by the candidate and verified by documentation o Documented evidence of successful completion of the assessment in the appropriate field(s) o A license granted by a state in the field(s) to be taught and/or evaluated o Certification by a State Department of Education The applicant must successfully complete the 24-hour Instructor Certification Training Program (ICTP) conducted by an -certified Master Trainer. In turn, certified Pipeline Technician Instructors train pipeliners. Technician Instructor candidates must have craft experience at a minimum of journey level or technician level in their area of expertise, or they must have a minimum of three (3) years experience as a certified teacher in a vocational/technical constructionrelated, maintenance-related, or pipeline-related training program. The Sponsor Representative is responsible for assuring that candidates meet these minimum requirements and retain documentation or qualification. For more information on Technical Instructor Certification please see the Accreditation Guidelines. Revision Date 1/5/

17 In order to become a Performance Evaluator the candidate must meet the minimum requirements of a Technician Instructor and must successfully complete modules 1 and 9 of the ITCP. For more information please see the Accreditation Guidelines. The Standardized Technician Training Process The Standardized Training Process incorporates s Contren Learning Series, accreditation for organizations delivering training, an instructor training and certification process, and a national registry system for documenting the completion of training. The key element of training is flexibility. s Standardized Training Process is designed to be applicable to numerous traditional training methodologies, including standardized training, task-specific training, helper training, multi-skilled or cross-skill training, registered apprenticeship training, and journeyman upgrade training. Several organizations have also used the process to deliver training through self study/distance learning. The Standardized Training Process also allows for flexibility at the point of delivery. Training can be delivered through association chapters, by contractors at job and plant sites, or through secondary, post-secondary, and vocational schools. Delivery of s standardized training process is based on the Accredited Training Sponsor (ATS) that is linked directly to. An ATS can be a chapter of an industry-related trade association, a pipeline operator, a contractor, a pipeline training consultant, government agency, prison system or contractor, or a proprietary school. ATS can deliver training at a single site or through a multitude of sites called Training Units. Training Units can be job sites, plant sites, a contractor s in-house facilities, or a school. The number of training units attached to a single sponsor is only limited by the sponsor s ability to manage them. Standardized Pipeline Curricula ( s Contren Learning Series) All Pipeline curricula are developed using the expertise of subject matter experts (SMEs) from the industry. These experts are required to have a minimum of pipeline technician-level or journey-level experience. The use of SMEs as an integral part of every new development or revision ensures that the curriculum is current, industry-driven, and indicative of industry practices. The development and/or revision process is facilitated from start to finish by project managers, who work closely with the SMEs and a select team of technical writer(s) on the development and presentation of the curriculum. The smallest unit of instruction in the curriculum is the module. Each curriculum is composed of modules (the equivalent of stand-alone chapters) which are logically sequenced into levels of instruction. Each curriculum developed by the has between one and five levels of training. Most modules are task-oriented and require the successful completion of a written (knowledgebased) examination and a performance (hands-on) test. Modules may be individually selected and/or combined for efficient task training. Revision Date 1/5/

18 Every module is published in two distinct formats a Trainee Guide and an Instructor s Guide. s Contren Learning Series is published and sold by Pearson Education ( Modules in the Pipeline curricula, to the extent possible, align with industry-developed covered tasks. Not all modules relate to covered tasks; however, all covered tasks relate to at least one module. Note that related covered tasks that require a small amount of instructional material may be incorporated into one module, whereas a covered task that requires a large amount of instructional material may be divided among multiple modules. The Pipeline curricula focus on essential skills and competencies within the five craft categories of Electrical and Instrumentation, Mechanical, Maintenance, Operations, and Corrosion. Also available is a specialty module on Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) of welds. Task modules provide the material needed to teach the skills required of that module. SMEs from the pipeline industry have determined the skills and competencies needed based on covered tasks and the consensus of the industry. Specific information on owners, manufacturers, or pipelines is generally not incorporated into the curriculum unless the SMEs determine that the information is the industry standard. Owner/manufacturer/pipeline-specific information is conveyed at the point of training delivery by the instructor who expands upon industry standard or consensus information based on the need in the company and/or local area. Examples of this might be the need to train on specific valve or pump types not included in the curriculum and/or an owner s modification of a specific pipeline process that is different from the SME-consensus process in the curricula. For a catalog of s current Contren Learning Series contact s Customer Service Department at or visit National Craft Assessment and Certification Process The National Assessment and Certification Program (NCACP) is a nationally recognized and industry-driven program designed to evaluate the journey-level knowledge and skills of experienced workers. For the pipeline industry, the candidate assesses to determine qualification on selected covered tasks. All assessments developed under the PTAP are tied directly to the s standardized pipeline training curricula (the Contren Learning Series) to assist in upgrade training if needed. s assessment process is designed to address the following issues: Meet the demands of PHMSA and pipeline operators regarding pipeline workforce qualifications. Identify the knowledge, skill, and overall qualification level of the current pipeline workforce. Eliminate duplication of efforts and the burdens it places on pipeline technicians. Increase technician credentialing opportunities and workforce professionalism. Increase pipeline workforce involvement in training. Assist pipeline contractors in maximizing their training dollars. Enhance career opportunities and progression for individuals within the pipeline industry. Expand workforce development resources to the pipeline industry. Enhance safety and productivity of the pipeline workforce. Improve the image of the pipeline industry. Revision Date 1/5/

19 NCACP includes both written or knowledge assessments and performance or hands-on assessments (known as performance verifications) intended to evaluate the technician level of knowledge and the skills of pipeliners as they relate to established covered tasks. Every assessment has all questions correlated back to competencies and modules in the Contren Learning Series, so a training prescription can be provided to all technicians who are assessed. Through the s development process, all tests receive expert psychometric analysis and validation, which allows them to be used both before and during employment. Once a technician is assessed, tracks and records the results through the National Registry and provides appropriate credentials to individual workers. These results are then communicated to ISN through an exclusive data sharing agreement to populate the database for OQ verification. Under PTAP, a Certified (written) credential is provided when a candidate passes the cut-score for all covered task modules identified in the assessment. A Performance Verified credential is awarded when the candidate passes every task identified for a specific area. To conduct and use the NCACP, organizations must be Accredited Assessment Centers and must have an individual who is certified by as both a Master Trainer and an Administrator. Administrators may train and certify Coordinators, Proctors and Performance Evaluators. National Registry -accredited sponsors using the Contren Learning Series with -Certified Technician Instructors and -accredited assessment centers are eligible to submit all completed training to the National Registry. Written assessments, performance verifications, module completions, and instructor training are all tracked through the National Registry. The National Registry is a database of training and assessment histories of industry craftworkers. The National Registry is a highly secure program that ensures the confidentiality of craftworkers records. The Registry includes a system of release forms that allows the worker to grant permission to release their transcripts and credentials to sponsors and/or employers. A technician begins building a transcript in the National Registry with the first module they complete. As a technician successfully completes levels, assessments, and performance verifications, they begin building credentials that are provided to them through certificates, transcripts, and wallet cards. also maintains an Automated National Registry. The Automated National Registry allows sponsors to electronically manage their training and assessment records, allows pipeline technicians to access and verify their training and assessment credentials, and allows contractors and operators to verify the qualifications of technicians performing covered tasks. Information on s Automated National Registry can be obtained by visiting the following link: The Registry department at provides monthly webinar training sessions for sponsors. Contact Customer Service at for more information. Revision Date 1/5/

20 Determining Whether to Administer the PTAP Evaluate the resources of your organization to determine if you can effectively conduct training and/or assessments. If you answer "yes" to the following questions you should have the resources to pursue accreditation. Please refer to Terms and Definitions for further explanation. Do you have personnel to manage and oversee an accredited training and/or assessment program? Do you have adequate funding to support a training and/or assessment program? Do you have personnel qualified to become a Master Trainer and/or Administrator? Do you have personnel qualified to become Technician Instructors, Performance Evaluators and/or Coordinators and Proctors? Do you have facilities to conduct training and/or assessments and performance verifications in accordance with standards? Will your organization adhere to accreditation standards, guard and protect the security of testing and assessment instruments, and maintain the integrity of the training and assessment processes? Do you have direct linkage to the construction/pipeline industry? Do you have proof of legitimate business operations? Steps to Become an -Accredited Training Sponsor and/or Accredited Assessment Center Become familiar with 's Accreditation Guidelines by visiting the following website: Once you have read the guidelines thoroughly, identify qualified individual(s) within your organization to become the Sponsor Representative and/or Administrator. Apply to to become an Accredited Training Sponsor and/or Accredited Assessment Center by using the appropriate forms and procedures as outlined in 's Accreditation Guidelines. Establish a budget and funding mechanism. Identify qualified individual(s) to become -Certified Master Trainer(s) and/or - Certified Administrator(s). These persons must attend the appropriate training courses. Identify qualified individual(s) to become -Certified Technician Instructors(s), Performance Evaluator(s) and/or Coordinator(s) and Proctor(s). Establish facilities and procedures for conducting training and/or assessments, in accordance with Accreditation Guidelines. Begin conducting training and/or assessments after all the above steps have been approved by. Prepare for audit. Revision Date 1/5/

21 RESOURCES AND CONTACTS National Center for Construction Education and Research 3600 NW 43 rd St, Bldg G, Gainesville FL Main Phone: Customer Service Phone: General Fax: ISN Software Corporation 's partner in the creation of the Automated National Registry (ANR) is ISN Software Corporation. In addition to the ANR, ISN has created powerful functionality for the pipeline industry in its host database system. The pipeline functionality created by ISN allows pipeline contractors to share qualification information on their workers with pipeline operators through ISN's web-based system. For more information on ISN's basic system contact ISN at: Phone: LINKS TO ADDITIONAL REFERENCES COVERED TASK LIST Visit to download the most up-todate list of Pipeline Covered Tasks and the corresponding modules, assessments, and performance verifications that may be used for operator qualification. NCACP PIPELINE WRITTEN ASSESSMENT SPECIFICATIONS Visit to see available assessments, and specifications and cut scores for each. NCACP PIPELINE PERFORMANCE VERIFICATIONS Go to to download a package containing a submission sheet, cover page, how-to instructions, and the candidate and evaluator reference sheets for each covered task. PTAP CURRICULA OUTLINES All of the Pipeline curriculum titles, along with performance objectives and equipment lists may be found by going to and clicking Online Catalog, or directly at this link: From the Online Catalog homepage, you may download the entire Contren Catalog or just select Pipeline. ACCREDITATION GUIDELINES Additional information on the requirements of accreditation may be found at The Guidelines are available for download on this page. Revision Date 1/5/

22 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What is Operator Qualification (OQ)? The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), through regulations 49 CFR Part 192 (Gas) and Part 195 (Liquid), requires pipeline operators to establish plans to ensure that all workers who perform covered tasks, as defined by federal regulations, on their pipelines are qualified and able to recognize and react to abnormal operating conditions. Who is regulated under Operator Qualification (OQ)? All workers who perform covered tasks on a pipeline including pipeline operator employees, contractor employees, and subcontractor employees are regulated under the OQ rule. When did Operator Qualification go into effect? All workers performing covered tasks on a pipeline after October 28, 2002 had to have been qualified under the OQ rule. What is the Pipeline Training and Assessment Program? The Pipeline Training and Assessment Program (PTAP) is designed to assist operators and contractors in obtaining proper training and qualification under the OQ rule. PTAP includes: Written Skills Assessments Performance Verifications Curricula o Electrical and Instrumentation o Mechanical o Operations o Corrosion Prevention o Pipeline Maintenance o Abnormal Operating Conditions Who developed PTAP? The American Petroleum Institute (API), in concert with the previous Consortium on Operator Qualification (COOQ), developed a relationship with the National Center for Construction Education and Research () to develop the Pipeline Training and Assessment Program (PTAP). API developed a consensus list of tasks known as the Covered Task List. This list serves as the foundation of PTAP. COOQ has since been replaced by the Operator Qualification Workgroup Committee (OQWC) that works with API to continually evaluate OQ in terms of effectiveness and compliance with federal regulations. How do I get started? Thoroughly read the s PTAP Implementation and Resource Guide. Visit and review s website, focusing on Skill Assessment, Accreditation, Instructor Certification, and the location of existing Training Sponsors. To find other sponsors and assessment centers, visit and click on Find a Training or Assessment Center. Revision Date 1/5/

23 What is the Covered Task List? These are the tasks in which pipeline workers need to obtain qualification and upon which PTAP has been built. In order to comply with the DOT regulations for operator qualifications, specific duties were defined as covered tasks in which those on or near a pipeline are required to be evaluated and certified. These areas were defined as covered tasks designed to help operators comply with the DOT rule, which requires that pipeline operators (not necessarily their contractors) develop a written qualification program to evaluate and document personnel and contractor ability to perform covered tasks and to recognize and respond to abnormal operating conditions that may be encountered while performing covered tasks. The covered task list represents the consensus position of the pipeline companies involved and is designed as an aid in developing a qualification program. How do I use the Covered Task List? Identify the Covered Tasks that are performed by your workers and for which OQ is required. For the most current Covered Task List, visit the following link: IMPORTANT Contact your pipeline operator(s) if you are unsure which covered tasks are required. Only pipeline operators can determine which covered tasks will be required of workers, contractors, and subcontractors working on their pipelines. Match your Covered Tasks to the appropriate PTAP qualification tools. The Covered Task List contains a matrix that identifies the Contren curriculum, written assessments, and performance verifications that correspond to each Covered Task. For further information on Pipeline Curriculum, visit Also go to the online Contren Catalog by clicking on the top menu of any page on For pipeline webbased training, the catalog home page includes an entry portal for Contren Connect. For more information on Pipeline Assessments and Performance Verifications, visit and look under Related Content. Which Covered Tasks pertain to the particular job I do? The Operator requiring the OQ has to determine the proper Covered Task that you need to qualify on based on the job you perform. Contact the Operator that you will be working for to determine which Assessment Test, Performance Verification or Contren Learning Series Module completion you need to obtain qualification. Using PTAP, how does a worker achieve qualification? To achieve qualification under PTAP a worker must: Successfully complete the appropriate PTAP covered task assessment and abnormal operating condition assessments administered by an -Certified Proctor of an -Accredited Assessment Center or Authorized Assessment Site and/or Revision Date 1/5/

24 Successfully complete the appropriate PTAP Performance Verification administered by an -Certified Performance Evaluator of a -Accredited Assessment Center or Authorized Assessment Site and/or Successfully complete the appropriate written and performance test(s) of a Contren PTAP Training Module administered by an -Certified Instructor of an - Accredited Training Sponsor or Training Unit or Successfully complete a combination of the above as required by the pipeline operator. All assessments and/or training completed as described above are entered into 's National Registry. Through the Registry, individuals receive transcripts, wallet cards, and certificates that document successful completion of Contren modules, written assessments, and performance verifications. These completions are also made available through ISN for the purpose of pulling OQ reports. How should I assess/qualify and train my workers? The Standardized Training Process provides flexibility in how companies approach training. Generally, you can train in-house, through an existing Sponsor, or fashion a system that takes advantage of the strengths of both (e.g., working with an existing Sponsor as a Training Unit). An organization must be fully accredited to be eligible to conduct assessments in-house as an Accredited Assessment Center. Should you decide to seek accreditation, you may need the services of an existing Sponsor or proctors for assessment purposes until you work through the process of developing your own in-house accredited program. Your decision to seek accreditation or to use the services of an existing Sponsor depends on many variables, such as inhouse personnel to oversee and manage the program, the number of employees in your workforce who would participate in the process, and most importantly, your company s commitment to conducting training. Will operators train and assess contractor employees? Generally no. Each operator might if there is no other viable alternative. Operators want to see contractors become an active participant in workforce development by becoming training sponsors or using an alternative for training and assessing their own employees. How is qualification of an individual verified by the contractor? By the operator? With authorization from the individual worker, a contractor can verify the workers qualification through the s Automated National Registry. Contractors will also be able to supply this information to operators either by a paper-based record copy or via electronic means through the ISN system. Revision Date 1/5/

25 Which method of qualification under the PTAP system is acceptable under the Operator Qualification rule? Contractors should talk with their pipeline operators to determine what methods of qualification will be acceptable under their Pipeline Operators Qualifications Program. Written examinations and observations (performance verifications) are acceptable means of qualifying workers under the Operator Qualification rule. PTAP offers several options for both written and performance testing. A pipeline technician could qualify using a written assessment or a written module exam. Using performance verification checklists or PTAP module performance tests are also acceptable methods of qualification. When someone completes a Contren module, does that mean that he or she is qualified under the Operator Qualification Rule? The pipeline operator will determine the specific methods of qualification that are acceptable under their OQ plan. When a technician successfully completes (passes written and performance tests) for a module that incorporates a covered task they will have met the criteria for one method of qualification. What issues do the pipeline skills assessments address? Meet the demands of DOT and pipeline operators regarding pipeline workforce qualifications Identify the knowledge, skill, and overall qualification level of the current pipeline workforce Eliminate duplication of efforts and the burdens it places on pipeline technicians Increase technician credentialing opportunities and workforce professionalism Increase pipeline workforce involvement in training Assist pipeline contractors in maximizing their training dollars Enhance career opportunities and progression for individuals within the pipeline industry Expand workforce development resources to the pipeline workforce Improve the image of the pipeline industry Where are assessment centers located? A complete listing of s training sponsors and accredited assessment centers is provided on our website at Are assessments offered in computer-based format? If yes, is a proctor still required? The provides all assessments in a computer-based format. Even with a computerbased/internet-based testing format, a proctor is still essential to ensuring the identity of the testtaker and the security of the assessment. How does assessing for journey-level differ from assessing for qualification under the PTAP assessment process? Under the National Craft Assessment and Certification Program (NCACP), develops and administers industry-endorsed journey-level craft assessments for the construction and maintenance workforce. Journey-level assessments focus on the critical knowledge areas of a craft that help determine if a worker has gained knowledge proficiency to the industry-defined journeylevel. In traditional craft areas, it takes up to four years of apprenticeship and training to attain Revision Date 1/5/

26 journey-level skill. That knowledge is demonstrated when a candidate passes the cut score for any given assessment and becomes Certified. Under the PTAP process, however, the pipeline assessments are utilized differently, depending on operator requirements. The focus is on covered tasks first, as defined by the Department of Transportation and the pipeline industry, and the overall body of pipeline technician knowledge second. The industry defines the covered tasks and categorizes them into common or like areas. These task areas are the basis of the comprehensive knowledge required to pass the overall Pipeline Assessments. Each assessment has covered tasks built into it that may be used as indicators of operator qualification regardless of whether or not the overall assessment cut score was met. According to policy, a candidate is not Certified (written) for the entire PTAP assessment unless he/she meets two criteria as defined below: 1) Pass the industry defined cut-score or passing score, AND 2) Pass all modules of the assessment that are identified as "covered task" areas NOTE: Covered tasks that are passed, even though the entire PTAP assessment is not passed, may be used as indicators of qualification for those covered task areas. Passing only the covered task areas on a pipeline assessment is an acceptable measure of qualification, only if the operator approves it in their written qualification plan. To view the Pipeline Assessments and their topic specifications, visit Journey-level performance verifications also differ from PTAP performance verifications. Journeylevel performance verifications are designed to evaluate critical skill areas of a craft to determine if a worker has journey-level skills or not. PTAP performance verifications are designed to evaluate a pipeline worker's competence in performing the covered task or sub-task. Are written and performance tests both required to achieve operator qualification? Pipeline operators set the requirements for OQ in their written program. Some require only written covered tasks testing, while others require both written and performance testing. Check with your operator s requirements. Most covered tasks for an employee fall under one curriculum for assessment purposes but a few are in another assessment. Must this employee take multiple assessments? This question must be answered by the pipeline operator because of what they require in their written program. There are several possible solutions in addition to multiple assessments. (1) Take the written assessment and performance verification for the main curriculum and take the performance verification only for the remaining covered task(s). (2) Take the written and performance verification for the main curriculum and test-out on module tests (written and performance) for the remaining tasks. If the content of an assessment or a module changes due to new regulations or new technology, will notify the individual workers of the revision and the possible need to re-qualify? As assessments and curricula are revised, the will widely publicize the revisions to pipeline operators, contractors and industry groups. The is unable to notify each individual worker Revision Date 1/5/

27 so pipeline operators and contractors will be responsible for ensuring that workers are qualified under the current programs available. Where can I go to take Training, Written Assessment or Performance Verification for OQ? Go to the Find a Training or Assessment Center search tool on the website and find a local accredited entity. Contact the local Training Sponsor or Assessment Center to determine what services are offered-phone and contact info is supplied there: Keep in mind that some accredited entities may choose to conduct ONLY in-house training and assessments for their own employees and may not offer services to the general public. Those listed as in-house facilities on the website fall into that category. No Accredited entities in my area will provide the Training, Written Assessment or the Performance Verification-What do I do now? You might try broadening your search for Accredited Training Sponsors and Accredited Assessment Centers to encompass neighboring states or cities (to find possible other locations offering OQ training or assessment). Alternatively, your company may apply for accreditation to conduct in-house training and assessment. Download and review the Accreditation Guidelines for more information on how to become an Accredited Training Sponsor or Assessment Center: What is s role in the data flow process? creates, revises, updates and maintains the curriculum and assessment tools that are used to qualify for Operator Qualification. also maintains a Pipeline User s Council to help set future course in regards to the Pipeline Training and Assessment process. does not set OQ rules and regulations. Once a Contren Learning Series Training Module completion or an Assessment completion (Written or Performance) is submitted to (from an Accredited entity), the data is processed into the National Registry, where it is then sent to ISNetworld for entry into the OQ verification database. submits results to ISN through an exclusive data-sharing agreement. Data is typically viewable in ISN s system within hours after it is processed by. Do I have to take the assessment test or complete a training module every three years to requalify for OQ? has no such requirement but the Operator requiring the OQ typically will subscribe to a three-year requalification. Contact the Operator you are working for to determine their requirements. These may be listed at ISNetworld by the Operator. Revision Date 1/5/