Computer based training simplifies safety compliance

Pipeline & Gas Journal, June, 1995 by Gary E. Congram

The latest innovation is CBT for Windows which features a built-in module editing tool so the user can edit any screen in each module, including all text, graphics, and test questions. CBT modules are easily customized on-the-fly to fit specific operational needs of any company.

Also available is the Records Management system which is designed to help companies meet Department of Transportation (DOT), Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) training record requirements. This system offers an excellent method for tracking employee test scores and can identify areas of deficiency which may require additional training. It can perform complex sorts and searches to generate custom reports and exceeds legal record keeping requirements.

These interactive training programs are designed to reduce the amount of classroom instruction so employees can spend their valuable training time demonstrating skills. Also, it optimizes the time available for training, and affords flexibility since training can be taken by most employees on a 24-hr. basis without leaving the work site. Further, it is accessible almost anywhere a computer can be located. Training can be provided with laptop and desktop computers, stand alones, or local or wide area networks. Because the system is open, training modules can be customized to fit specific operations or special areas within the company.

Training Modules For DOT Compliance

Williams Knowledge Systems has developed a comprehensive library of CBT for DOT compliance. Over 100 hrs. of training have been developed for addressing DOT Safety Reporting Parts 192 and 195, and DOT Hazardous Transportation Parts 392, 397, 172-177.

Module topics for gas transmission systems include all phases of operations. Corrosion topics include the mechanism of corrosion, principles of corrosion control, maintenance of rectifiers in cathodic protection, out-ages, coatings, pipe-to-soil measurement, shorted casings, right-of-way encroachment, and DOT inspection requirements. Operations of both centrifugal and reciprocating compressors are covered, as well as main-line valves, gas processing (Fig. 1), hydrogen sulfide, gas gathering (Fig. 2), dehydration, pigging (Fig. 3), gas conditioning, underground storage, and measurement methods.

In the gas distribution modules, trainees are offered the basics of a natural gas system including characteristics and properties of natural gas, BTU/heat content, odorants, and relationships of pressure, density, and gas volume. Other modules focus on locating and marking facilities, regulators, valves, fire fighting, leak investigation, main repair, plastic pipe fusion, gas line maintenance, and trenching/shoring.

CBT modules for liquids pipelines and terminals also are comprehensively covered. The Williams CBT library includes modules from crude oil gathering through transportation and storage of refined products. Major subject areas include tanks, valves, pumps, meters, hydraulics and main line operation, quality control, and maintenance.

Another important CBT series of modules deal with hazardous materials (HAZMAT) transportation. Topics in the 21 module training program include classification of hazardous materials, log books, using an emergency guidebook, shipping papers, identifying hazards and risks, handling hazardous wastes, pre/post trip placarding, and securement of bulk and non-bulk shipments. Separate modules cover transporting flammables, combustibles, highly volatile gases, oxidizers, corrosives, poisons, and ammonia.

DOT Drug and Alcohol training for employees has not been forgotten, either. Requirements for Parts 40 and 199 are covered in four modules, including a module for supervisory personnel. Another module provides an understanding of the DOT's drug and alcohol testing rules.

Environmental Protection Training

Hazardous materials handling, hazardous waste management and minimization, and safety and environmental programs are featured in the environmental protection training. Environmental modules being developed in this area include: spills and release (including SPCC and OPA); air quality (permits, exemptions, hydrogen sulfide); wastewater (NPDES); and sampling (potable water, monitoring of soils & water wells). Future modules also are planned for training in SARA Tier II; AST/UST Tank Management; asbestos and lead abatement; risk assessment; contractor orientation; and right-of-way encroachment/prevention.

Of special interest in the environmental protection training are the hazardous waste modules which define the Resource Conservation & Reclamation Act's (RCRA) definitions of hazardous wastes and the regulations concerning its "cradle-to-grave" tracking system through storage, treatment and disposal.

OSHA Compliance Programs

OSHA compliance modules account for a large part of the training module library. In the "General" category, users can select training in benzene and its hazards of exposure; defensive driving; hearing conservation; confined space, process safety management; and prevention of back injuries. These modules are especially important since a recent study showed that proper training has reduced injuries among construction workers, particularly back injuries. A fall protection module, which focuses on preventing another major cause of injury in construction, is nearing completion.