Operator Qualification Training (OQ)

Operator Qualification Training (OQ) is enforced through current pipeline safety statutes. To ensure the safe transportation of hazardous liquids and gases through pipelines, operators must be qualified according to the PHMSA (Department of Transportation), and the burden of qualifying pipeline operators falls on private pipelines and pipeline contractors.

Our courses offer an effective balance between hands-on and classroom instruction. The classes are designed to expose our students to safe natural gas pipeline activities. Led by our senior instructor, Wes Whitley, we certify pipeline operators and contractors to bring their company into compliance with PHMSA’s training requirements.

We offer two types of classes: 

Custom OQ Class

In a custom operator qualification class, our instructor(s) travels to the customer’s location at a mutually agreeable time. The client has the ability to customize the curriculum to their needs. Clients select the course topics, and Linc Energy Systems will train your operators at your designated location.

Standard OQ Class

The Standard Operator Qualification class is the perfect choice for those customers with fewer employees to train.  Here, the operators attend Linc Energy’s scheduled classes at select locations. A predetermined curriculum is set and students can select which courses are needed over five days of classes. Class dates and locations will be posted soon.  Our next class will be in Denver Colorado.

In either type of class, advance registration is required and spaces are limited, so please call us at (303) 697-6701, so we can add you to our list. 
 

Course Objectives

After Linc Energy Operator Qualification training, students will:

• Recognize and identify safe pipeline activities as related to their responsibilities.
• Perform their assigned tasks in an industry recognized correct method.
• Recognize and react appropriately to abnormal operating conditions.

 
Recommended Course Topics:

• Corrosion Control
• Leak Detection
• Pipeline Repair
• Pressure Regulators and Relief Devices
• Gauges and Charts
• Locating Underground Facilities and Tracer Wires
• Valve Maintenance
• Purging of Pipelines
• Patrolling & Continuing Surveillance
• Abnormal Operating Conditions

Text and Required Supplies:

• Required text: Operator Qualification Phase 1 (provided)
• Supplies: Pencils, pens and highlighters are recommended for class success
• Students are encouraged to bring equipment they have questions about, such as valves, regulators, and other small items. Please do not bring items that are saturated with odorant.

While we guarantee our students will be introduced to the proper material required to train on each topic, a passing grade of 70% is required for certification. Additionally, 100% attendance is required. 

Linc Energy Systems’ Operator Qualification program offers our clients peace of mind by assuring their employees are trained to the specifications driven by PHMSA (Department of Transportation). While we may certify that the operator has been trained, it is the client who qualifies the operator.

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What is Operator Qualification Training?