Colorado Propane Gas Association
2014 Training Classes
The Certified Employee Training Program, or CETP, is a formal structure for training, testing and
documentation to assure that workers in the propane industry have the necessary knowledge and skills to
perform their work safely and effectively. Properly trained and educated employees, customers and end-users
mean a healthier organization and a better bottom line for you. Employee training is mandated by DOT, NFPA
and other groups and it makes good business sense. The current propane training requirements in the state of
Colorado are as follows:
ARTICLE 4 TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Section 4-2 Dispenser Operator Training
(a) The minimum training requirements for dispenser operators, that shall be completed prior to operating LPG
dispensers, may be satisfied by certification by either of the following:
(1) Certified Employee Training Program (CETP) 1.0 Basic Principles and Practices as published by PERC;
(2) A training program which contains at minimum, certification by the PERC Dispensing Propane Safely
program.
Section 4-3 Delivery Personnel Training
(a) The minimum training requirements for delivery personnel shall include:
(1) Proper procedure for filling an ASME container;
(2) Knowledge of when a test for leakage is required;
(3) Proper procedure for conducting and documenting a test for leakage;
(4) Criteria for determining when filling a container is prohibited because of improper installation, or because of
excessive corrosion, dents, or gouges;
(5) Emergency procedures as outlined in the employer’s FSA.
(6) Certification by the Certified Employee Training Program (CETP) 1.0 Basic Principles and Practices as
published by PERC;
(b) All CETP training for delivery personnel shall be completed within one year of hire date.
Section 4-4 Service and Installation Personnel Training
(a) The minimum training requirements for those who service or install exterior piping of LPG vapor distribution
systems may be satisfied by certification by the Certified Employee Training Program (CETP) 1.0 Basic
Principles and Practices and 4.2 Preparing & Installing Vapor Distribution System Components as published by
PERC.
(b) All CETP training for those who service or install exterior piping of LPG vapor distribution systems shall be
completed within one year of hire date.
Your PERC dollars off-set the cost of these training classes, so you are strongly encouraged to take advantage
of these low-cost training opportunities.
Classes have been scheduled throughout the state for your convenience. Classes with low pre-registration will
be cancelled two weeks before the class date, so please register early to ensure class availability.
C-PERC
Colorado Propane Education & Research Council
The Colorado Propane Gas Association is sponsoring the following classes this year:
Sterling
June 30 – July 2:
4.1 Designing and Installing Exterior Vapor Distribution Systems (3 day class)
Terry Hansen, Instructor
July 14-16:
4.2 Placing Vapor Distribution Systems and Appliances into Operation (3 day class)
Terry Hansen, Instructor
Denver
August 4-5:
1.0 Basic Principles & Practices (2-day class)
Vern Prostler, Instructor
August 6-8:
2.1 & 2.2 Propane Delivery Basics and Operating a Bobtail to Deliver Propane (3-day class)
Vern Prostler, Instructor
August 11:
Refresher Training for CETP & DOT (1-day class)
Vern Prostler, Instructor
August 12:
Office 101 (1/2 day class – 8 a.m. – 12 noon)
Vern Prostler, Instructor
September 8-11:
Basic Plant Operations (4 day class)
Terry Hansen, Instructor
Pueblo
July 15-17:
4.1 Designing and Installing Exterior Vapor Distribution Systems (3 day class)
Don Reinert, Instructor
July 21:
Operating a Transport to Deliver Propane (1-day class – no certification)
Vern Prostler, Instructor
July 22:
Refresher Training for CETP & DOT (1-day class)
Vern Prostler, Instructor
July 28-29:
1.0 Basic Principles & Practices (2-day class)
Vern Prostler, Instructor
July 30 – August 1:
2.1 & 2.2 Propane Delivery Basics and Operating a Bobtail to Deliver Propane (3-day class)
Vern Prostler, Instructor
August 5-7:
4.2 Placing Vapor Distribution Systems and Appliances into Operation (3 day class)
Don Reinert, Instructor
1.0 Basic Principles & Practices
This course covers the basic knowledge of the propane industry, including physical and combustion properties;
industry, codes, standards and organizations; basic parts of propane tanks, cylinders and equipment; maintaining a
safe working environment; identification of tools and supplies commonly used by propane industry personnel; and
serving the customer.
Prerequisite: none. Required reference: NFPA 58- 2014 edition.
2.1 & 2.2 Propane Delivery Basics and Operating a Bobtail to Deliver Propane
Provides general information applicable to all drivers of cargo tank motor vehicles used to deliver propane including;
DOT driver qualifications; personal protective equipment; CMV pre-trip inspections; verifying placarding, markings
and inspections; flammable and combustible liquids; verifying the presence of odorant; handling CMV accidents;
breakdowns and emergencies; and parking/garaging of vehicles.
This course also provides information on: identifying bobtail equipment and operating procedures; pre-unloading
inspections, bulk plant loading/unloading systems and procedures; walk-around inspection of CTMV; purging
propane containers prior to transferring product; handling out-of-gas calls and piping leak checks; evacuating ASME
tanks; post-trip inspections; required monthly inspections; and bobtail loading via compressor or auxiliary inlet
Prerequisite: Basic Principles & Practices.
Required reference: NFPA 58- 2014 edition
Designing and Installing Exterior Vapor Distribution Systems (Book 4.1)
Focuses on designing and installing the exterior portions of a vapor distribution system for both residential and small
commercial markets. This course addresses how to select and install containers, prevent corrosion, size and install
regulators and meters, and select and install outdoor piping and tubing.
Prerequisite: Basic Principles & Practices.
Required reference: NFPA 58- 2014 edition
Placing Vapor Distribution Systems and Appliances into Operation (Book 4.2)
Focuses primarily on the procedure of placing a vapor distribution system into operation. This course addresses the
different system tests required for vapor distribution systems and appliances; validating the container, piping, and
regulator; how and when to make the final connections; how to purge the system of air, appliance controls and
safety devices; and how to adjust the burner.
Prerequisite: Basic Principles & Practices.
Required reference: NFPA 58- 2014 edition
Plant Operations
The updated Basic Plant Operations course provides information for employees working in propane bulk plants. It
provides information, practices, and procedures that support many general plant operations tasks. This course is
primarily designed to train employees who: Inspect and fill DOT cylinders and ASME tanks at the bulk plant,
requalify DOT cylinders, maintain cylinders, tanks, and bulk plant equipment systems, and other propane employees
who could benefit from particular sections of this course include plant managers and plant office personnel.
The standard certification area in Plant Operations Basic Certification consists of the following
• Maintaining ASME Tanks
• Maintaining DOT Cylinders
• Operating Dispensing Equipment to Fill Containers
• Maintaining Bulk Plant Equipment
• Performing Cargo Tank Product Transfer
Prerequisite: Basic Principles & Practices.
Required reference: NFPA 58- 2014 edition
Operating a Transport to Deliver Propane – Abbreviated one day course
This course is geared to transport drivers. This course primarily identifies characteristics and physical properties of
propane, transport equipment, and components of terminal and bulk plant loading/unloading systems. Other topics
covered are:
• Loading a transport using a plant pump, compressor, or auxiliary inlet.
• Walk-around inspection of a cargo tank motor vehicle (CTMV) after loading.
• Safe driving techniques, emergency discharge, and delivery hose assembly inspections.
• Purging propane containers, unloading a transport, and reducing vapor pressure using a plant compressor.
• Unloading using a plant or CTMV pump.
• Performing post-trip inspections, and monthly inspections and tests on emergency discharge systems and
delivery hose assemblies.
Required reference: NFPA 58- 2014 edition
Refresher Training for CETP & DOT
This one-day course includes:
• Review of the new changes in NFPA 58 – 2014 edition.
• Review of proper installation and testing of regulators.
• Review of cathodic protection.
• Requirements of NPFA 58 and Colorado Rules and Regulations.
• Review of proper container installations, underground, above ground, stationary cylinders, exchange
cylinders, and portable cylinders.
• Protection required for the different piping – steel, copper, and corrugated stainless steel.
The course also includes hazmat recertification, including:
• Information required by FMCSA, CFR 49 Part 172.704(c) in the area of general awareness.
• Security Training as required.
• Discussion of driver’s responsibilities under the regulations of CSA 2010.
Required reference: NFPA 58- 2014 edition.
Office 101
This half-day class provides general information applicable to all office personnel answering the phones, working
with the public. and maintaining office files. The course covers:
• File maintenance -- vehicle and personnel
• Shipping papers -- content and retention requirements
• Handling customer calls and complaints
• Properties of propane
• Handling emergency situations
• What to tell the customer and information for the service personnel responding to the call
• Pilot Outage
• Gas leak or odor inside the residence
• Gas leak outside
• Out of gas calls
• New customers
§ What information to obtain
§ Advise or give only prices that are set for all customers
§ Advise of any special additional policy charges
§ Payment terms, credit check if the company requires one
Prerequisite: None
The class will be held 8 a.m. – 12:00 noon.
Sterling Classes
All Sterling classes will be held at the Ramada Inn, 2500 E Chestnut, Sterling, CO 80751. Phone: 970-522-2625.
A discounted group rate for lodging is being offered by the Ramada Inn. Call the front desk and mention that you are
attending the Colorado Propane Gas Association training course.
Denver Classes
All Denver classes will be held at the Ramada Plaza & Conference Center, 10 East 120th Avenue, Denver (Northglenn),
CO 80233. Phone: 303-452-4100.
Directions: Interstate -25 exit 223, go east on 120 St. for two blocks. Turn right at the first traffic light onto Grant Street. Go
to the next right and hotel on left side of road.
Lodging is available for $89.95 per night. To get this special rate, call the hotel and ask for the Colorado Propane Assn.
group rate. To ensure availability, please make reservations ASAP.
Pueblo Classes
All Pueblo classes except the 4.1 and 4.2 Vapor classes will be held at the Wingate by Wyndham Pueblo, 4711 North
Elizabeth, Pueblo, CO 81008. Phone: 1-719-586-9000.
The hotel is located one block west of I-25 at Exit 102. For reservations, call the hotel and ask for the Colorado Propane
Gas Association rate of $89. Breakfast is provided at no fee at these classes.
The Pueblo 4.1 and 4.2 Vapor classes will be held at the Hampton Inn & Suites Pueblo-Southgate, 3315 Gateway Drive,
Pueblo, Colorado 81004. Phone: 1-719-566-1726.
Directions: From I-25 - Take Exit 94 to Pueblo Blvd.-Hwy. 45. Make a left at the first light to Lake Ave. The hotel is located
at the corner of Lake and Gateway Dr. From Hwy. 45 South - Make a right onto Lake Ave. The hotel is at the corner of
Lake and Gateway Dr.
For reservations, call the hotel and ask for the Colorado Propane Gas Association rate.
Registration
Class fees, including the class instruction fee, facility costs, student manual, student test, breaks each day and other
related costs, are substantially reduced with PERC funds. Meals and lodging are NOT included, and are the responsibility
of the company or individual attending.
All class materials, including NFPA books purchased using the registration form, will be distributed at the class.
Important Certification Information
On the final day of each course except the Refresher class, a certification test will be administered to all registrants. The
test will then be forwarded to Industrial Training Service for evaluation and recording.
In order to be certified, the skills assessment evaluation in the student manual must be completed by the student’s
supervisor or other qualified person who has completed the CETP course they are evaluating, or is familiar with the
subject matter. This must be completed within 1 year from the date the written test was taken. The evaluation must be
mailed to Industrial Training Services in Murray, KY. A copy should be kept in the student’s file.
You must be certified in the Basic Principles & Practices course before you can be certified in any other course, except for
Operating a Transport to Deliver Propane. If you enroll in another class prior to taking the Basic Principles & Practices
course, you will not receive a pass or fail grade unless you are certified in Basic Principles & Practices within 12 months.
Questions about the Classes?
Please contact Darlene Hawk at 941-347-7596 or by email at dhawk@npga.org.
Colorado Propane Gas Association
2014 Propane Training Class Registration Form
(Please complete one form per person– copy form as needed)
Company ______________________________________ Contact Name ____________________________________
Name of Student __________________________________________________________________________________
Company Address/City/State/Zip ____________________________________________________________________
Phone _______________________ Fax ____________________ Email ______________________________________
Please check which Classes This Student Will Attend and Any Resource Materials Needed
COST
TOTAL
Sterling
q Designing and Installing Exterior Vapor Distribution Systems – 3 day class June 30 – July 2: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day
$75
q Placing Vapor Distribution Systems and Appliances Into Operation – 3 day class July 14-16: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. each day
$75
Denver
q Basic Principles & Practices – 2 day class August 4-5: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day
$50
q Propane Delivery Basics & Operating a Bobtail to Deliver Propane – 3 day class August 6-8: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. each day
$75
q Refresher Training for CETP and DOT – 1 day class August 11: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
$25
q Office 101 – Half day class August 12: 8 a.m.–12:00 noon
$25
q Plant Operations – 4 day class September 8-11: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day
$100
Pueblo
q Designing & Installing Exterior Vapor Distribution Systems – 3 day class July 15-17: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day
$75
q Operating a Transport to Deliver Propane – 1 day class July 21: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day
$25
q Refresher Training for CETP and DOT – 1 day class July 22: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
$25
q Basic Principles & Practices – 2 day class July 28-29: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day
$50
q Propane Delivery Basics & Operating a Bobtail to Deliver Propane – 3 day class July 30-August 1: 8 am–5 pm each day
$75
q Placing Vapor Distribution Systems and Appliances Into Operation – 3 day class August 5-7: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. each day
$75
Resources
q NFPA 54 (2012 edition)
_______# of copies @ $55 each
$55 ea.
q NFPA 58 (2014 edition)
_______# of copies @ $55 each
$55 ea.
TOTAL
Payment information:
[ ] Check
[ ] Credit Card (MC, Visa & AmEx) Number ________________________________________
Cardholder Name _________________________________________
Return to:
Colorado Propane Gas Association
PO Box 1425
Lamar, CO 81052
OR Fax to 866.695.8420
OR Email to dhawk@npga.org
Exp Date ____________
Signature ______________________________
Phone: 866-881-6309