The document outlines the Operator Qualification (OQ) final rule issued in 1999, which mandates pipeline operators to ensure employees are properly trained to handle abnormal operating conditions. It also describes the role of the Damage Prevention Council of Texas in promoting safety and cooperation among stakeholders to prevent underground utility damage. Additionally, it provides information on training and assessment centers where operators can complete their qualifications.

1. Operator Qualification
In 1999, the Operator Qualification (OQ)
final rule was issued, enhancing training
requirements for pipeline operators. The
rule, which was adopted into the Code of
Federal Regulations under Subpart N in 49
CFR Part 192 and Subpart G in 49 CFR
Part 195, requires pipeline operators to
document that certain employees have
been adequately trained to recognize and
react to abnormal operating conditions that
may occur while performing specific tasks.
History of the OQ Rule
The Inspector Training and Qualifications Division (TQ) makes available
technical reference materials related to OQ to supplement the training materials.
Natural gas and hazardous liquid operators may access these technical materials
to better understand and comply with OQ training and record keeping
requirements. Please note that TQ only provides formal training to federal and state
inspectors; all other information is supplemental.

2. DAMAGE PREVENTION COUNCIL OF TEXAS
Who We Are
We are a collective of industry
leaders and stakeholders including
contractors, utility operators,
pipeline operators, municipalities,
utility locators, excavators,
engineers and other industry
focused volunteers.
Purpose
To facilitate communication, cooperation and coordination among all industry
stakeholders in the prevention of underground utility damages.
To heighten stakeholder awareness to the requirements of Texas Utilities Code, Title
5, Chapter 251– Underground Facility Damage Prevention & Safety Act
To heighten stakeholder awareness to the requirements of Railroad Commission of
Texas – Title 16, Chapter 18 – Underground Pipeline Damage Prevention
regulations.
To promote safe digging best practices;
To sponsor, promote and participate in education and training programs related to the
prevention of damage to facilities in an effort to increase public safety and

3. Master Evaluators
Operator Qualification
PHMSA OQ - 49 CFR 192 and 195
Training and Assessment Center
OQ training and assessment - We can
perform operator qualification via Mobile
Lab, in the field or at our ATAC (Training
and Assessment Center)
Midland Training Center
8409 W. Interstate 20, Suite #8
MIdland, TX 79707
Corpus Christi Training Center
400 SPID, Suite 103B
Corpus Christi, TX 78405

4. Operator Qualification
ITS Operator Qualification
Operator Qualification is vital for the
safety of your employees and
communities, and we know the process
can get complicated.
We’re here to help lift the burden.
Operator Qualifications ( O Q ) made
quick and easy
Operator Qualification done in the field, at
your job site or at our OQ training
center. We can deliver.

5. Contact Us
Better yet, see us in person!
We love our clients, so feel free to visit
during normal business hours.
Authorized Training and Assessment
Center
8409 West Interstate 20, Midland, Texas
79706, United States
Call for Directions (432) 528-4237 (432)
231-2207
Always Available
Monday - Sunday: 6am - 9pm
Saturday: Training and Assessments
Sunday: Training and Assessments