What is Operator Qualification and Why Does it Matter?

An operator qualification (OQ) is a necessary program that pipeline operators of hazardous gasses and liquids must obtain before they can legally work with materials of this kind in the United States. Operator qualifications are required by state and federal governments. The reason they are needed is so that all operators can perform their jobs safely, without risking their lives or the lives of people whose properties they are working near. This post will delve more into what this qualification is, what it means to get it, and why it is important.

Finding Employment

If you want to find work as an operator of hazardous gases and liquids, you need to obtain an OQ. No employer is going to hire you without one. The reason for this is that it’s a legal requirement in all states for technicians to undergo Operator Qualification (OQ) Training before they can perform this kind of work. Some employers will send potential employees on these courses, and pay their expenses. Others require employees to have undergone training prior to applying for a position in their companies. If you want to make yourself appear more desirable to potential employers, go ahead and get yourself trained. Getting trained first is the best way to ensure that you are going to find work. It demonstrates that you are hardworking and committed to becoming a pipeline operator, making you stand out among other untrained applicants.

Legal Requirement

As mentioned several times already, an operator qualification is a legal requirement in the United States for pipeline operators of gasses and hazardous liquids. The reason that it is a legal requirement is so that state governments can be certain operators are trained and knowledgeable in handling gasses and liquids that are harmful. If you are found to be working with materials of the kind mentioned previously without this qualification, you could get into a lot of trouble and the company that you are working for could find themselves forced to close operations until they properly train you and any staff who are also untrained. 

Also worth noting is that if companies are found to be allowing employees to work on pipelines without proper training, they can be fined. The fines levied against companies that do this can be very high. Sometimes, they are high enough to force companies into bankruptcy.

Safety Training

You need to receive training so that you are able to safely work with these substances and materials. Training is for your safety and the safety of the general public. If dangerous gasses and liquids leak, they could pose a threat to life. Simultaneously, leaking substances or ones that are poorly handled could lead to you getting seriously injured. Training means you are able to return home at night to your family, safe and sound. It’s something you should be enthusiastic about if you are planning on working in this industry, otherwise you could end up getting seriously injured.

An OQ is essential if you want to work as a pipeline operator of dangerous gases and liquids in the United States. You won’t be able to find work in this industry until you have obtained this qualification. It’s easy enough to get and sometimes employers pay for it.