What is OQ certification?

Federal law requires operators of energy pipelines to have an Operator Qualification (OQ) Plan and Program in place to reduce human error and protect life and property. Discover industry-proven solutions that give pipeline operators the clearest and simplest path to compliance.

What is the OQ rule?

The OQ rule requires that an operator must have provisions to “evaluate an individual if the operator has reason to believe that the individual’s performance of a covered task contributed to an incident (or accident)”.

How long is OQ Training Good For?

MEA supports these efforts through a one-day initial evaluator classroom training and online refresher training. MEA approved OQ evaluator status must be renewed every three years.

What is the definition of a covered task?

Covered task means an activity identified by the operator that affects the safety or integrity of the pipeline facility. A covered task includes, but is not limited to, the performance of any operations, maintenance, construction or emergency response task.

What is the dot’s definition of OQ regulation?

OQ is a regulation of the Office of Pipeline Safety of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). DOT’s Operator Qualification (OQ) regulation 49 CFR 192 subpart N, requires operators to develop and maintain a qualification program for individuals performing covered tasks.

What is the northeast Gas Association OQ program?

The Northeast Gas Association (NGA) administers a comprehensive Operator Qualification (OQ) Program. OQ is a regulation of the Office of Pipeline Safety of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

Why are pipeline operators required to have an OQ plan?

We’re here to help lift the burden. Federal law requires operators of energy pipelines to have an Operator Qualification (OQ) Plan and Program in place to reduce human error and protect life and property. Discover industry-proven solutions that give pipeline operators the clearest and simplest path to compliance.

What is the intent of the NGA OQ rule?

The intent of the OQ rule is to minimize human error by establishing a verifiable and qualified workforce. NGA’s OQ Program includes numerous covered tasks. Each covered task requires a knowledge and/or skill evaluation.