API/NCCER OQ: Pipeliner Training & Assessment Program

Implementation and Resource Guide  |  For More Information

Pipeline Operator Qualification

The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA) requires that pipeline operators (not necessarily their contractors) 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, 1999.

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 API’s covered task list recommendation 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.

Purchase a copy of the Guidance Document

API/NCCER Operator Qualification: Pipeliner Training and Assessment Program

NCCER, in cooperation with the American Petroleum Institute (API), has developed the API/NCCER Operator Qualification: Pipeliner Training and Assessment Program (PTAP) which consists of Pipeliner Curriculum, Pipeline Skills Assessments and Preformance Verifications to qualify pipeline personnel under the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) regulation for Pipeline Operator Qualification.

A comprehensive overview of the Pipeliner Training and Assessment Program, including detailed instructions on how to obtain training and/or assessments, can be found in the PTAP Program Implementation and Resource Guide.

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
• 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

Available PTAP Training/Assessments

• Electrical and Instrumentation Pipeline Technician
• Mechanical Pipeline Technician
• Pipeline Maintenance Technician
• Field and Control Center Operations Technician
• Corrosion Prevention Field Technician

Pipeline Curriculum Development

Just like all NCCER crafts, the Pipeline Curriculum was developed through the expertise of Subject Matter Experts (SME) from the industry. These SMEs are required to have a minimum of pipeline technician-level or journey-level experience. The use of SMEs ensures that the curriculum is current, industry-driven and indicative of industry practices.

For more information on Pipeline Assessments and Pipeline Curriculum

Contact NCCER Customer Service at (352) 334-0920 or download a copy of the Program Implementation and Resource Guide.