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Qualification of Pipeline Personnel (17.14)

Criticality: High
Progress: Not Addressed
Score: 40
DOT Relevance: §192.801 – §192.809

Description of Key Area

Qualification of pipeline personnel is defined under Subpart N (Qualification of Pipeline Personnel) of 49 CFR 192. As per §192.801, “this subpart prescribes the minimum requirements for operator qualification of individuals performing covered tasks on a pipeline facility.” A “covered task” is defined in 49 CFR 192 as “an activity…that is performed on a pipeline facility; is an operations or maintenance task; is performed as a requirement of this part; and affects the operation or integrity of the pipeline.”

Discussion of Criticality

As qualified personnel, individuals must be able to “recognize and react to abnormal operating conditions.”

Discussion of Progress

ASME B31Q has been drafted to address operator training, qualification, and certification. It is expected to be published in 2006.

Recommendations

Standards for hydrogen pipeline operator qualification must be incorporated by reference into the federal code. There may be the need for a national training program for hydrogen pipeline operators.