Download MODULE SAFETY - NJ Green Program of Study

 CAREER PROFILE: Pipeline Technician
As a pipeline technician, Oscar G. is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of
pipelines, terminals, and associated equipment, including pipeline valve sites, mains,
metering units, and pump stations for his company.
Pipeline technicians maintain, test, troubleshoot, and repair pipeline equipment, associated
computer programming, and electronic control systems used in pipeline systems.
Oscar monitors control systems for indications of system errors or failures including leak
detection or pressure fluctuations. He also uses computer applications and specialized
programs to test pipeline system functions and maintain accurate records.
Pipeline technicians conduct site-based activities that evaluate pipeline product
measurement and quality. Oscar says, “The favorite part of my job is doing hands-on pipeline
maintenance.” Pipeline technicians perform corrective maintenance as well as damage
prevention activities on pipeline systems.
Pipeline technicians use customer service skills in communicating with the public about safety
issues. Oscar says, “An important part of my job is to help educate the public about pipeline
safety, such as telling them about the Call Before You Dig program, and how to identify gas
line markers.”
Gas Pipeline Markers
Pipeline markers are found in the pipeline right of way to identify that a pipeline is buried in
the vicinity of the markers. Pipeline markers are not necessarily placed directly above the
buried pipeline but typically follow the pipeline’s general location and route. Pipeline
markers identify what product is being carried in the pipeline (natural gas, etc.), the name
of the pipeline operator, an emergency contact number, and the area’s one-call center
(“call before you dig”) number.
High Consequence Areas
Federal regulations require some areas near pipelines to be designated as high
consequence areas (HCA). An HCA is an area or building near a gas transmission pipeline
where more than 20 people gather, work, or live. HCAs include schools, churches,
apartment buildings, business establishments, etc.
While major pipeline incidents are rare, pipelines are frequently damaged by excavation
and other construction activities. When a pipeline near an HCA is damaged, the area will be
evacuated for safety reasons until the pipeline is repaired and it is safe to return.
Citizens should be alert to and take notice of pipeline markers placed throughout their
communities. Knowing in advance the proximity of local pipelines and how to safely
respond to pipeline incidents can help ensure community safety.
Energy Industry Fundamentals — Module 2 (Ver. 1.2)
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