SKILLS FOR OIL AND GAS
ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES FOR OPITO GLOBAL
VOCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS FOR
PROCESSING OPERATIONS: HYDROCARBONS
VERSION 1: JUNE 2014
OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
VERSION CONTROL
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AMENDMENT & DATE
June 2014
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Any amendments to the Assessment Guidelines made by OPITO will be recorded above.
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
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Contents
Section 1 - Introduction ................................................................................................................ 4
The Purpose of this Guide ......................................................................................................... 4
OPITO Framework of Global Oil and Gas Technical Standards and Qualifications ....................... 4
Section 2 – Occupational Standards and Vocational Qualification ................................................. 6
Purpose and Structure of Occupational Standards .................................................................... 6
Target Group for Occupational Standards for Processing Operations ......................................... 6
English Language Skills.............................................................................................................. 6
Occupational Standards for Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons at Oil and Gas Level 3 .......... 7
OPITO Global Vocational Qualification Level 3: Processing Operations (Hydrocarbons) ............. 8
Section 3 – Assessment Principles ................................................................................................ 9
Who is involved ........................................................................................................................ 9
Assessment Methods.............................................................................................................. 11
Assessment Process ................................................................................................................ 16
Section 4 – Further Guidance ..................................................................................................... 17
Section 5 – Example Occupational Standard ............................................................................... 18
Section 6 – Coverage of Occupational Standards ........................................................................ 22
Section 7 – Example Assessment Forms ...................................................................................... 28
Example Assessment Plan ....................................................................................................... 28
Example Observation Record .................................................................................................. 30
Example Assessment Report ................................................................................................... 32
Section 8 - Blank Forms .............................................................................................................. 39
Assessment Plan ..................................................................................................................... 39
Unit Achievement Record ....................................................................................................... 40
Index of Evidence ................................................................................................................... 41
Witness Testimony ................................................................................................................. 43
Question Record ..................................................................................................................... 44
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
Section 1 - Introduction
The Purpose of this Guide
These Assessment Guidelines are intended to provide specific and practical examples of how to assess
Candidates who are completing OPITO Global Occupational Standards which form part of OPITO’s Global
Vocational Qualifications for Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons. The Guidelines should be read in
conjunction with The OPITO Oil and Gas Industry Competence Assessment and Verification Guidelines. It is
also important to take into consideration any guidance or assessment requirements specified within any
Occupational Standards. Occupational Standards are often referred to as Units of Competence or simply as
Standards.
OPITO Framework of Global Oil and Gas Technical Standards and Qualifications
The OPITO Framework of Global Oil and Gas Technical Standards and Qualifications comprises:

Training Standards which set benchmarks for the assessment of skills and knowledge and this provides a
foundation for building the skills required to work in the oil and gas industry

Occupational Standards which define the expected level of performance, knowledge, understanding and
behaviour an individual must achieve when carrying out job roles/functions in the workplace

Global Certificates and Qualifications which have been developed in conjunction with our awarding body
partner SQA and which will have global recognition.
Occupational Standards
Training Standards
Training
Skills Assessment
Competence Assessment
Training for safety,
behaviours, knowledge,
equipment and tools
Assessment of skills in a
simulated/ realistic working
environment
Assessment of competence in
the workplace.
Foundation Certificate in
Oil and Gas
Global
Skills Qualification
Global
Vocational Qualification
Global Training Certificates
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The OPITO Framework of Global Oil and Gas Technical Standards and Qualifications was designed in
partnership with industry and covers 6 levels which reflect the range of skills and increasing levels of
complexity and risk associated with job roles in the industry.
Oil and Gas Level 5
OIM
Oil and Gas Level 4
Process Superintendent
Oil and Gas Level 3
Process Technician, Control Room Operator
Oil and Gas Level 2
Process Operator (routine operations)
Oil and Gas Level 1
Entry level employment/apprentice
Oil and Gas Foundation
Trainee at basic skills level
A typical progression route through the OPITO Framework of Global Oil and Gas Technical Standards and
Qualifications is illustrated below.
Training
Skills Assessment
Competence
Assessment
Vocational Qualification:
Processing Operations
(Hydrocarbons)
Training Certificate:
Oil and Gas Processes
Training Certificate:
Introduction to Oil and
Gas Processes
Training Certificate:
Introduction to Oil and
Gas Industry
Skills Qualification:
Oil and Gas Processing
Operations (RWE)
Oil and Gas
Level 3
Oil and Gas
Level 2
Oil and Gas
Level 1
Oil and Gas
Foundation
These Assessment Guidelines focus specifically on Global Vocational Qualifications. Global Vocational
Qualifications provide organisations with the opportunity to benchmark the skills of their employees and for
individuals they provide a qualification which will be recognised globally.
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
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Section 2 – Occupational Standards and Vocational Qualification
Purpose and Structure of Occupational Standards
Occupational Standards define the expected level of performance, knowledge, understanding and behaviour an
individual must demonstrate when carrying out job roles/functions in the workplace. An Occupational Standard
is generally made up of Outcomes, Performance Criteria, Scope, Knowledge and Assessment Guidance.
Outcomes describe the skills that need to be demonstrated in the workplace in order to ensure competent
performance.
The level of performance required is detailed in statements referred to as Performance Criteria.
The Knowledge section defines what the Candidate must know and understand in order to complete the
skills being assessed. The knowledge is what is considered essential and not what is nice to have.
The Scope section defines the range of activities that must be assessed, and the equipment that must be
used, in order to achieve the Outcomes and Performance Criteria.
Assessment Guidance provides examples of how evidence of competence may be generated. The Evidence
Requirements define the type and quantity of evidence that must be provided.
A typical Process Operations: Hydrocarbons Occupational Standard is shown in Section 5.
Target Group for Occupational Standards for Processing Operations
The Occupational Standards in Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons at Oil and Gas Level 3 describe what a
Process or Production Technician in the oil and gas processing industry needs to do in order to be deemed
competent for the job role.
Individuals can be assessed as competent in individual Processing Standards. There are currently 28
individual Processing Standards against which competence can be assessed.
The Standards selected by individuals will reflect the plant, equipment and processes in the processing
facility, installation or terminal in which they work.
English Language Skills
Individuals will be able to express and understand complex information and talk fluently on topics within
their area(s) of specialism. They should be able to participate effectively in meetings and easily exchange
information and ideas with others. Individuals will be able to produce clear and detailed text, summarise key
points from a longer document and explain a topic including advantages and disadvantages of various
options. Individuals will be able to read fluently, write quickly and take notes.
This level of English corresponds to the following International Frameworks - CEFR C1, IELTS 5.5 – 6.0,
ToEFL : c 50 - 70
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
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Occupational Standards for Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons at Oil and Gas
Level 3
The Occupational Standards have been developed by practitioners from a wide range of offshore and
onshore processing facilities and cover a range of processing operations.
Wells
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Wellheads)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Well Integrity)
Oil /Gas Storage/Discharge Processes
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Tanker Loading - Oil)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Storage Tank - Oil)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Tanker Loading - Liquefied Gas)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Storage Tank - Liquefied Gas)?
Gas Processing
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Compression)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Fractionation)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (NGL Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Treatment)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas and Liquid Inlet Facilities)
Oil/Gas Process and Export
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Produced Water Treatment)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Vent and Flare System)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Pigging and Sphering Operations)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Crude Oil Stabilisation)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Well Products Separation)
Water Injection
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Water Injection)
Metering
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Metering Systems)
Utilities
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Drain Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Nitrogen Generation)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Chemical Injection)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Fuel Gas Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Diesel Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Heating Medium Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Instrument and Service Air Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Water Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Hydraulics)
More details of the coverage for each Occupational Standards are included in Section 6.
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
OPITO Global Vocational Qualification Level 3: Processing Operations
(Hydrocarbons)
The OPITO Global Vocational Qualification L3: Processing Operations (Hydrocarbons) is jointly awarded by
OPITO and SQA and successful Candidates who complete the relevant Occupational Standards will be issued
with a joint OPITO/SQA Vocational Qualification certificate.
This Vocational Qualification is at Oil and Gas Level 3. This is broadly comparable to qualifications at
SVQ/NVQ level 3, HNC, SCQF 6/7, QCF 3/4 and EQF 4/5.
To achieve the OPITO Global Vocational Qualification L3: Processing Operations (Hydrocarbons) the
Candidate needs to complete eight Standards to gain the qualification with five Standards to be taken from
Group A and a further three Standards to be completed from either Group A or B.
Group A
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Tanker Loading - Oil)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Storage Tank - Oil)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Tanker Loading - Liquefied Gas)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Storage Tank - Liquefied Gas)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Compression)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Fractionation)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (NGL Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Treatment)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas and Liquid Inlet Facilities)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Produced Water Treatment)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Vent and Flare System)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Pigging and Sphering Operations)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Crude Oil Stabilisation)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Well Products Separation)
Group B
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Wellheads)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Well Integrity)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Water Injection)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Metering Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Drain Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Heating Medium Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Nitrogen Generation)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Chemical Injection)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Fuel Gas Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Diesel Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Instrument and Service Air Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Water Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Hydraulics)
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Section 3 – Assessment Principles
This section provides guidance on how to assess Candidates against the Occupational Standards defined in
the Vocational Qualifications. The guidance is founded on industry best practice that is embedded into The
OPITO Oil and Gas Industry Competence Assessment and Verification Guidelines.
Who is involved
Candidate:
the individual or employee who wishes to be assessed as competent against
Occupational Standards for business and/or personal development purposes
Assessor:
the qualified* individual who carries out assessments and who makes an
judgement on the competence of the Candidate
Internal Verifier:
the qualified* individual who ensures that all Assessors consistently assess all
Candidates and that assessments are valid, reliable, equitable and fair
OPITO Auditor
Auditors will ensure that the Occupational Standards are being assessed
consistently throughout the network of Approved Centres
Candidate collects evidence to
demonstrate competence
Assessor assesses evidence and
makes judgement on competence
of Candidate
Internal Verifier ensures quality
and consistency of assessment
process
OPITO audits assessment and
quality assurance processes across
all Approved Centres
*The requirements for Assessors and Internal Verifiers are defined in The OPITO Oil and Gas Industry
Competence Assessment and Verification Guidelines.
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A collaborative relationship between the Candidate and Assessor is the key to an effective assessment
process. Assessment is a staged process and the Assessor and Candidate have clear roles and responsibilities
in order to ensure a successful outcome.
The Assessor’s role is to:
 ensure those directly affected or contributing to the assessment process are informed
 ensure the Candidate understands what is to be assessed, where and when it is to be assessed and how it
is to be assessed (assessment planning)
 ensure the plant and equipment and any materials required for the assessment are safe and available
 advise the Candidate on how to identify and gather evidence – this will be documented in an Assessment
Plan
 observe the Candidate carrying out the tasks specified in the Occupational Standards in normal
workplace conditions and record the observations
 assess products of the Candidate’s own work e.g. job reports
 question the Candidate to assess knowledge and understanding
 advise the Candidates to how to present evidence
 ensure that the evidence is authentic and the work of the Candidate
 judge the Candidate’s evidence, ensuring assessment methods are valid, reliable, equitable and fair
 record the sources of evidence and assessment decisions
 identify any gaps in the Candidate’s competence and suggest ways of gathering additional evidence
 provide the Candidate with feedback on the assessment decisions.
The Candidate’s role is to:

prepare for assessment - ensure that the requirements of the Occupational Standard(s) and the
individual’s responsibilities within the assessment process are clearly understood

participate in assessment planning with the allocated Assessor

gather and provide authentic evidence of work carried out

agree with the Assessor suitable opportunities for the observation of performance in the workplace

answer questions and demonstrate knowledge and understanding to the Assessor

maintain a portfolio of evidence

receive and act on feedback from the Assessor.
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
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Assessment Methods
Principles of Assessment
The Occupational Standards have been developed by OPITO in conjunction with industry, discipline
practitioners and other interested parties. The Vocational Qualifications have been designed so that
operational, safety and behavioural skills can be assessed in the workplace where competence is best
judged. The Occupational Standards cannot be assessed by simulation
The majority of the evidence used to assess competence should be naturally occurring and generated from
the Candidate’s normal place of work whilst carrying out normal duties. This approach ensures that:

the assessment reflects normal working requirements and conditions

the Candidate is familiar with the process, plant and equipment

documentary evidence such as job reports can be naturally generated as the work is carried out.
The assessment process must take place over a minimum of a 3 month period to ensure that consistency of
performance can be judged.
Methods of Assessment
The methods of assessment used should be valid, reliable and equitable and fair:

valid means that the assessment method should be appropriate to the Occupational Standards and the
tasks that are being carried out

reliable means that the assessment method applied should ensure consistency in the results when used
with different Candidates, different Assessors, different assessment sites and different working
environments

equitable means that assessment is accessible to all Candidates who have the potential to be successful
in it

fair means that assessments have been objectively and consistently applied, ensuring all Candidates
have equal opportunities to succeed.
Assessment of competence involves a range of assessment methods to ensure effective cover of all the
Outcomes, Performance Criteria, Knowledge and Scope statements for each Occupational Standard.
The assessment approaches and evidence requirements are clearly stated for each Occupational Standard.
Typical statements taken from the Occupational Standard relating to Operate an Oil and Gas Process
(Wellheads) are shown on the next page.
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Assessment
Assessment
approaches
Assessment Guidance
 This Occupational Standard cannot be assessed by simulation.
 The main means of assessment should be observation by competent Assessors while
Candidates perform tasks in the workplace.
 Safe working practices and effective working relationships should form part of
assessment checklists when assessing Candidates’ performance.
 Observation should be supported by questioning to ensure that Candidates have the
required knowledge and understanding.
 Product evidence (e.g. workplace documents and job records) can be used to
provide evidence of work carried out – this could include work already completed.
 Additional supporting evidence could include witness testimony from individuals
who can provide informed feedback on the performance of Candidates.
 Assessments should reflect normal work activities, wherever possible.
 Assessments can be integrated across the Outcomes and Performance Criteria.
(Refer to OPITO Oil and Gas Competence Assessment and Verification Guidelines and
OPITO Assessment Guidelines for Global Vocational Qualifications – Processing
Operations: Hydrocarbons for more guidance.)
Evidence
requirements
Assessments should include (but not limited to):
 an observation for each of Outcomes 1, 2 and 3 - the observations should include
safe working systems (Outcome 5 and Scope 2) and working relationships (Scope 3).
 evidence that all the required types of isolations and reinstatements have been
successfully carried out (this could involve observations and/or a review of job
paperwork)
 evidence that the process has been operated on a minimum of 3 times over a time
period of a minimum of 3 months
 record of questioning.
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Observation
The bulk of the evidence of a Candidate’s competence should be generated by an Assessor observing the
Candidate in the workplace carrying out normal work activities. The use of a simulated work place or
simulated assessments is not allowed.
A minimum of 3 observations must be carried out – one for each for the following stages in the process
(observations can be carried out independently or integrated where relevant):

start up the process (Outcome 1)

monitor the process (Outcome 2)

shut down the process (Outcome 3).
The observations should include safe working systems (Outcome 5 and Scope 2) and working relationships
(Scope 3). Additional observations may be carried out to assess the Candidate carrying out isolation and
reinstatement operations (Outcome 4) although this may also be assessed through a review of job reports.
Observations must be carried out by a qualified Assessor and a record must be retained of what has been
observed and how this relates to the Occupational Standard. An example of an observation record is
included in Section 7 and a blank observation record is included in Section 8.
When observing a Candidate carrying out an assessment task for one Occupational Standard it will often be
necessary for the Candidate to integrate this with other plant, equipment or utilities. This will certainly
occur during the start-up and shutdown of plant and equipment. The Assessor should use these
opportunities to integrate assessments and observe the Candidate performing the tasks across a number of
Occupational Standards.
There may be situations where it is difficult for the Assessor to be present when a Candidate is carrying out
the required assessment tasks, for example, due to shift or rotational patterns, logistical issues or where
tasks are not performed frequently. In some circumstances, therefore, it may be necessary to use an Expert
Witness to carry out an observation. This can only be done for a maximum of one observation for each
Candidate. Guidance on use of Expert Witnesses is included within The OPITO Oil and Gas Industry
Competence Assessment and Verification Guidelines. It is recommended that the use of an Expert Witness
is discussed with the OPITO Auditor.
Product Evidence
Workplace records that the Candidate produces in the course of their work can be used to provide
supporting ‘product evidence’ of the Candidate’s competence. Examples of this include job records, risk
assessments, isolation certificates, work procedures and handover notes.
Product evidence of work carried out could include work already completed. For example, Candidates are
required to provide evidence that all the required types of isolations and reinstatements have been
successfully carried out. This could include job records which provide evidence of isolations carried out by
the Candidate over the previous 3 to 6 months.
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Knowledge and understanding
Assessment of knowledge and understanding will typically cover knowledge of facts and procedures,
understanding of principles and concepts and application of principles and procedures.
Questions can be used to:

confirm that Candidates know why they are doing something and what actions need to be taken if
changes occur – what if…

confirm that the evidence collected by Candidates is valid and authentic

fill gaps in evidence where Candidates have not been able to demonstrate specific skills as they did not
occur when they were being observed

establish if the Candidates have relevant knowledge/experience to deal with non–standard or
contingency situations - Candidates will have to explain what to do in a given working situation and how
to do it .
Each Occupational Standard defines the knowledge and understanding that the Candidate must
demonstrate. Although a good proportion of this knowledge and understanding can be inferred during the
assessment of performance during normal work activities, it is inevitable that additional questioning will
need to take place in order to test the depth and breadth of knowledge and understanding which cannot be
inferred from observation of performance, for example the internal configuration of plant and equipment,
chemical reactions taking place and the composition and physical properties of process fluids.
Some of the knowledge requirements refer to underpinning process operations principles and are common
across all of the Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons Occupational Standards – as outlined on the next
page. This knowledge only has to be assessed on one occasion. Other knowledge requirements will be
specific to the process and/or site. This is illustrated in the extract from the Occupational Standard relating
to Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Wellheads) on the next page.
Questions and their ideal responses are often prepared in advance using question banks to ensure a
consistent approach to the eliciting of underpinning knowledge/understanding. This will also help in
identifying the underpinning knowledge that is common across the Standards and which does not need to be
repeated. The results can then be cross referenced to the knowledge requirements in each of the Standards.
A mixture of oral and written questions could be considered as this will provide flexibility and allow a variety
of approaches to the assessment process.
Assessors should retain a record of the all questions asked for each Candidate, together with the Candidate’s
responses.
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Examples of common knowledge requirements across all Occupational Standards
Process - general
Phases of the production process, the reactions taking place and the effect of changes on physical and
chemical properties (to include toxicity, flammability, specific gravity (SG), temperature)
Sources of information including operational requirements, drawings and manuals
Plant procedures and layout and its integration with other processes
Functioning of process control including instrumentation and logic
Relation to control room operations
How to connect to plant and utilities
Effects of loss of any utility and its reinstatement
How to isolate plant and utilities from operating sources, including isolation devices and methods of
installation
The principles of de-isolation
How to carry out integrity tests
How to take samples and interpret results
Methods and consequences of depressurisation/pressurisation (to include blowdown and temperature)
Blowdown and relief systems and their limitations
Safe systems of work
The implications of health, safety and environmental legislation
Work area hazards (eg toxic substances, extreme weather conditions) and how to identify/control/minimise
them and reduce risks to as low as reasonably practicable
Safe systems of work procedure
Consequences of emissions to the environment and procedures for dealing with spillages and uncontrolled
emissions
Segregation of waste materials
Critical and emergency situations
Critical conditions for process and how to control and respond to them
The effect and potential implications of loss of any critical process and its reinstatement
The principles and effect of hydrocarbon hydrate formation, prevention and dispersion
Emergency response procedures for plant and location
The operation of and implications of the emergency shutdown (ESD) control systems
The operation of and implications of the fire and gas control systems
Action to be taken in event of critical and emergency situations
Examples of Process specific knowledge – in this example for Wellhead Operations
Function and operation of equipment –will include well head and associated annulus valve; christmas tree
and associated valves; downhole safety valve and hydraulics; choke; computer control systems
Utilities required for operation of wellheads
Normal plant conditions and operating parameters for wellheads
What steady state conditions are for wellheads operations and how they are achieved
Factor impacting on performance of wellheads operations and how to achieve optimum processing
Types and causes of deviations and faults for wellheads operations and the relevant actions to take when
they occur
The effects of changes in ambient conditions on the process operations
Drain systems associated with the plant and their limitations
Flare/vent systems associated with the plant and their limitations (to include capacity and radiation)
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Supporting Evidence
Examples of additional evidence which may be collected to support the assessment process include:

witness testimony from individuals who are in a position to provide informed feedback on the
performance and behaviours of Candidates and to authenticate evidence – this could include
experienced colleagues, supervisors, mentors, technical specialists and clients

a CV or job history which can provide supporting evidence of the Candidate’s job experience/history

completion of a relevant qualification/training courses which can provide evidence that the Candidate
has relevant knowledge of operational theory and procedures, work methods, operation of the
equipment and safety procedures.
If witness testimony is used then the witnesses and the opportunities for using their testimonies should be
identified during the assessment planning stage. The testimony should record what the Candidate has
demonstrated, how and under what circumstances. The relationship between the Candidate and witness
should be stated together with a record of the witness’s familiarity with the Occupational Standards. Where
possible, the testimony should be directly referenced to the Standards. In judging the evidence, the Assessor
will need to take into consideration and judge the value of the evidence provided by the witness testimony.
Assessment Process
Planning
The Assessor should be in regular contact with the Candidate to identify on-going opportunities to gather
evidence. This should be recorded in an assessment plan. An example of an assessment plan is included in
Section 8.
There could be a number of challenges when carrying out assessment in the workplace which will require
careful planning to ensure that the assessment process is effective, takes account of naturally occurring
evidence that will arise during normal work activities and does not disrupt normal work operations. The
Assessor should liaise with those directly affected or contributing to the assessment and wherever possible
plan assessments around operational schedules.
Making and Recording Assessment Decisions
Assessment decisions must be related back to the requirements of the Occupational Standards. The
Assessor must record the assessment methods and evidence that was considered to make a decision on the
competence of the Candidate. An example assessment record is included in Section 7.
It is important that all Assessors and Internal Verifiers participate in regular standardisation meetings to
ensure consistent use of assessment methods throughout the Approved Centre and consistent approaches
to assessing Candidate evidence.
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Authentication of a Candidate’s evidence is required when the Assessor has not observed performance at
first hand. It is taken as granted that any performance observed by the Assessor is authentic and is the work
of the Candidate. Evidence not directly observed by the Assessor may be authenticated by the questioning
of the Candidate or by using witness testimony. Product evidence such as logs, reports and handover notes
must also be authenticated. This can be achieved by the Candidate signing the documents and then
obtaining counter-signatures from appropriate persons, stating that the evidence is valid and attributable to
the Candidate.
Assessment records will need to be countersigned by the Internal Verifier in line with the internal
verification strategy.
Evidence should be securely retained for internal verification and external audit purposes for one year after
the assessment has taken place.
Feedback and Support to Candidates
Feedback to the Candidate by the Assessor should be provided on an ongoing basis and relate directly to the
requirements of the Occupational Standards. Assessors should meet with Candidates on a regular basis to
provide feedback on the evidence collection process and any assessment decisions that have been made.
Guidance and support should be provided if any issues have been identified with the evidence gathered or if
there is a shortfall in the evidence. The way to remedy these issues or shortfalls should be discussed and
planned.
Section 4 – Further Guidance
The full specifications for the Occupational Standards are provided in the OPITO Global Occupational
Standards Specifications for Processing Operations (Hydrocarbons).
All organisations wishing to deliver the OPITO Global Vocational Qualification L3: Processing Operations
(Hydrocarbons) must be an OPITO Approved Centre and must meet the requirements of OPITO’s Quality
Criteria for Global Oil and Gas Technical Standards and Qualifications.
For further information please contact a member of our Workforce Development team in Dubai mea.enquiries@opito.com
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Section 5 – Example Occupational Standard
Title
Summary
Oil and Gas Level
Requirements
References
Outcome
O1 Start up the
process
O2 Operate and
monitor the
process
O3 Shut down
the process
O4 Isolate and
reinstate
the process
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Wellheads)
This process involves the operation of wellheads (oil well, gas producing well, water
injection well, gas injection well) within operational envelopes in order to maximise the
performance and exploitation of the reservoir. The process boundary is from downhole
safety valve through the christmas tree and choke, to well fluid entry and to the process
facilities.
This Occupational Standard involves:
 starting up the wellhead process
 operating and monitoring the wellhead process
 shutting down the wellhead process
 isolating and reinstating the wellhead process
 complying with HSE and safe systems of work
This Occupational Standard is at Oil and Gas Level 3.
This Occupational Standard must be assessed in the workplace in accordance with
worksite operational requirements, procedures and safe working practices.
OGOS/L3 – POH1.1 (H5BX 04)
Version 1 – December 2013
Performance Criteria
Candidates must demonstrate and provide evidence that they can:
P1.1 obtain relevant operational instructions and ensure that information received
on current operational status is accurate and complete
P1.2 brief relevant personnel and organise work of self and others, where
appropriate
P1.3 prepare and integrate plant and utilities
P1.4 carry out pre-start up checks
P1.5 start up the process in accordance with procedures
P1.6 achieve steady state conditions
P1.7 identify and take relevant action to deal with faults and any operational issues
P2.1 monitor and take relevant action to optimise the process
P2.2 identify and take relevant action to deal with upsets in the process
P2.3 ensure effective on-going communication of relevant information on
operational status
P2.4 maintain relevant records
P3.1 obtain relevant operational instructions and ensure that information received
on current operational status is accurate and complete
P3.3 brief relevant personnel and organise work of self and others where appropriate
P3.3 shut down the process in accordance with procedures
P3.4 monitor the shut down and take relevant action to deal with issues
P4.1 obtain relevant operational instructions and ensure that information received
on current operational status is accurate and complete
P4.2 brief relevant personnel and organise work of self and others where appropriate
P4.3 isolate plant and equipment for maintenance
P4.4 carry out integrity testing of the isolation and confirm safety of the plant and
equipment
P4.5 monitor and maintain the integrity of the isolation
P4.6 confirm completion of maintenance and associated documentation
P4.7 carry out integrity testing and confirm the plant and equipment safe to return to
service
P4.8 de-isolate and reinstate plant and equipment
OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
O5 Comply with P5.1
HSE and
safe systems P5.2
P5.3
of work
P5.4
P5.5
Knowledge
K1
Process general
K2
Process –
well heads
carry out relevant risk assessments and ensure that controls are in place to
ensure that risks are as low as reasonably practicable
ensure that relevant safety briefings are carried out
work in accordance with safe systems of work
take relevant steps to protect the environment
identify issues which may impact on safe systems of work and take relevant
action
P5.6 maintain relevant safety records
Knowledge Criteria
Candidate must provide evidence that they know and understand:
K1.1 phases of the production process, the reactions taking place and the effect of
changes on physical and chemical properties (to include toxicity, flammability,
specific gravity (SG), temperature)
K1.2 sources of information including operational requirements, drawings and
manuals
K1.3 plant procedures and layout and its integration with other processes
K1.4 functioning of process control including instrumentation and logic
K1.5 relation to control room operations
K1.6 how to connect to plant and utilities
K1.7 effects of loss of any utility and its reinstatement
K1.8 how to isolate plant and utilities from operating sources, including isolation
devices and methods of installation
K1.9 the principles of de-isolation
K1.10 how to carry out integrity tests
K1.11 how to take samples and interpret results
K1.12 methods and consequences of depressurisation/pressurisation (to include
blowdown and temperature)
K1.13 blowdown and relief systems and their limitations
K2.1 function and operation of equipment –will include well head and associated
annulus valve; christmas tree and associated valves; downhole safety valve and
hydraulics; choke; computer control systems
K2.2 utilities required for operation of wellheads
K2.3 normal plant conditions and operating parameters for wellheads
K2.4 what steady state conditions are for wellheads operations and how they are
achieved
K2.5 factor impacting on performance of wellheads operations and how to achieve
optimum processing
K2.6 types and causes of deviations and faults for wellheads operations and the
relevant actions to take when they occur
K2.7 the effects of changes in ambient conditions on process operations
K2.8 drain systems associated with the plant and their limitations
K2.9 flare/vent systems associated with the plant and their limitations (to include
capacity and radiation)
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K3
Safe systems
of work
K4
Critical and
emergency
situations
Scope
S1 Equipment
S2
Safe working
practices
S3
Working
relationships
K3.1
K3.2
the implications of health, safety and environmental legislation
work area hazards (eg toxic substances, extreme weather conditions) and how
to identify/control/minimise them and reduce risks to as low as reasonably
practicable
K3.3 safe systems of work procedure
K3.4 consequences of emissions to the environment and procedures for dealing with
spillages and uncontrolled emissions
K3.5 segregation of waste materials
K4.1 critical conditions for process and how to control and respond to them
K4.2 the effect and potential implications of loss of any critical process and its
reinstatement
K4.3 the principles and effect of hydrocarbon hydrate formation, prevention and
dispersion
K4.4 emergency response procedures for plant and location
K4.5 the operation of and implications of the emergency shutdown (ESD) control
systems
K4.6 the operation of and implications of the fire and gas control systems
K4.7 action to be taken in event of critical and emergency situations
Scope Criteria
Candidate evidence will typically involve (but not limited to):
 well head and associated annulus valve
 christmas tree and associated valves
 downhole safety valve and hydraulics
 choke
 computer control systems
Candidates must demonstrate safe working practices at all times. This will involve (but
not limited to):
 wearing correct PPE at all times
 complying with regulations including control of substances, manual handing,
working at height
 proactively raising safety issues and participating in a safety culture
 ensuring work area is kept clear
 disposing of waste in accordance with environmental requirements
 taking part in safety drills and briefings.
Candidates must demonstrate effective working relationships at all times. This will
involve (but not limited to):
 making clear efforts to establish and maintain productive working relationships
 ensuring effective communication with colleagues on operational matters
 communicating all relevant information on activities, progress and results to
supervisors/managers
 providing support and advice for colleagues within limits of own responsibility and
expertise.
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Assessment
Assessment
approaches
Evidence
requirements
Assessment Guidance
 This Occupational Standard cannot be assessed by simulation.
 The main means of assessment should be observation by competent Assessors while
Candidates perform tasks in the workplace.
 Safe working practices and effective working relationships should form part of
assessment checklists when assessing Candidates’ performance.
 Observation should be supported by questioning to ensure that Candidates have the
required knowledge and understanding.
 Product evidence (e.g. workplace documents and job records) can be used to
provide evidence of work carried out – this could include work already completed.
 Additional supporting evidence could include witness testimony from individuals
who can provide informed feedback on the performance of Candidates.
 Assessments should reflect normal work activities, wherever possible.
 Assessments can be integrated across the Outcomes and Performance Criteria.
(Refer to OPITO Oil and Gas Competence Assessment and Verification Guidelines and
OPITO Assessment Guidelines for Global Vocational Qualifications – Processing
Operations: Hydrocarbons for more guidance.)
Assessments should include (but not limited to):
 an observation for each of Outcomes 1, 2 and 3 - the observations should include
safe working systems and working relationships
 evidence that all the required types of isolations and reinstatements have been
successfully carried out
 evidence that the process has been operated on a minimum of 3 times over a time
period of a minimum of 3 months
 record of questioning.
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Section 6 – Coverage of Occupational Standards
Process NOS
1. Wells
1.1 Wellheads
Definition
This process involves the operation of wellheads (oil well, gas producing well,
water injection well, gas injection well) within operational envelopes in order to
maximise the performance and exploitation of the reservoir.
The process boundary is from downhole safety valve through the christmas tree
and choke, to well fluid entry and to the process facilities.
1.2 Well Integrity
Equipment will typically comprise:
 well head and associated annulus valve
 christmas tree and associated valves
 downhole safety valve and hydraulics
 choke
 computer control systems
This process involves ensuring the integrity of the well (oil well, gas producing
well, water injection well, gas injection well) by monitoring annulus, well
pressure, well flows, well temperature, reservoir and well data. Operations may
include isolating the well and coordinating leak testing.
The process boundary is from downhole safety valve through the christmas tree
and choke, to well fluid entry and to the process facilities.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 well head and associated annulus valve
 christmas tree and associated valves
 downhole safety valve and hydraulics
 choke
 computer control systems
2. Oil /Gas Storage/ Discharge Processes
2.1 Tanker Loading This process involves transferring oil from the storage tank outlet through
(Oil)
loading pumps and the metering system to the marine tanker connection.
2.2 Storage Tanks
(Oil)
Equipment will typically comprise:
 tanks, loading pumps
 emergency cut-off systems
 venting and flushing systems
 metering system
Knowledge:
 VOC (volatile organic compounds) recovery
 ballast systems
The process involves operating oil storage tanks by monitoring tank levels,
operating the drainage/sewerage systems, draining free water and operating the
tank inert and recirculation system.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 tanks
 recirculation system
 drains
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2.3 Tanker Loading
(Liquefied Gas)
2.4 Storage Tanks
(Liquefied Gas)
This process involves transferring liquified gas (LNG) from the tank outlet through
loading pumps and the metering system to the marine tanker connection.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 tanks, loading pumps
 emergency cut-off systems
 venting and flushing systems
 metering system
Knowledge:
 VOC (volatile organic compounds) recovery
 ballast systems
The process involves operating liquified gas (LNG) storage tanks by monitoring
tank levels, operating the drainage/sewerage systems, conditioning the liquid
and operating the tank inert and recirculation system.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 tanks
 recirculation, cooling/chilling systems
 drains
3. Gas Processing
3.1 Gas
Compression
This process involves the compression of gas to a higher pressure for the purpose
of gas lift, export, fuel gas, reinjection or fractionation.
The process boundary is from the inlet shut down valve (e.g. well manifold,
suction header, separator train) to outlet shut down valve (e.g. gas lift header,
export metering, fuel gas header).
3.2 Gas
Fractionation
Equipment will typically comprise:
 compressor and associated ancillaries eg lube oil systems
 heat exchangers
 prime movers
 degassing tanks
Knowledge:
 Types of compressors e.g. centrifugal, reciprocating
This process involves delivering individual component(s) from mixed gas supply.
The process boundary is from the raw gas supply to component(s) stream (s) and
residue.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 fractionation column(s)
 reboiler
 reflux drum
 condenser
 pumps, filters
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3.3 NGL Systems
This process involves handling of NGL generated from the gas process system.
The process boundary is from the NGL inlet (gas process knock out
pots/separator) to the NGL outlet delivery point.
3.4 Gas Treatment
Equipment will typically comprise:
 PCV
 heat exchangers
 pumps
This process involves the removal of impurities (eg CO2, H2S, H2O) from the gas
stream to reach the specified quality.
The process boundary is from the inlet such as separator, compressor to outlets
such as export, fuel gas, gas lift, gas fractionation.
3.5 Gas and Liquid
Inlet Facilities
Equipment will typically comprise:
 molecular sieve vessels
 desiccant
 reboiler
 flash drums
 contactor
 heat exchanger
 pumps, filters
Knowledge:
 gas treatments including CO2, H2S, H2O, solids/base metals, mercury
 absorbtion, adsorption
This process involves managing pig handling, slug catchers and scrubbers.
The process boundary is from the incoming pipeline to inlet to the gas plant
process facility.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 pigs, pig receiver
 slug catcher
 scrubbers
 filters
 separator.
4 Oil/Gas Process and Export
4.1 Produced
This process involves the removal and treatment of water from the process train
Water Treatment
so that that it is suitable to be released into the environment, or reinjected, – in
accordance with regulatory/company requirements.
The process boundary is from the water draw off from separator/the crude oil
storage tank to the water injection well header or the sea.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 hydrocyclone
 tilted plate separator
 floatation units
 filters, pumps
 heat exchanger
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4.2 Vent and Flare
System
This process involves operating the shut down, blow down, venting and flaring
processes under normal and emergency operating conditions.
4.3 Pigging/
Sphering
Operations
Equipment will typically comprise:
 vent
 ground flare
 remote flare
 flare knock out pots
 liquid pumps
 relief vales
 SSVS
 auto/manual ignition system
This process involves implementing pigging/ sphering operations to maintain the
efficiency and integrity of the pipeline (e.g. cleaning, dewatering, descaling,
inspection).
The process boundary is from the pig launcher to the pig receiver.
4.4 Crude Oil
Stabilisation
4.5 Well Products
Separation
Equipment will typically comprise:
 pigs
 pig launchers
 pig receivers
 spheres
 venting and draining facilities
This process involves stabilising crude oil to meet export specification.
The process boundary is from the inlet to the outlet of the stabilisation train.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 separators
 heat exchanger
 pumps
This process involves separating the well product into oil, water and gas (gas
liquid for 2nd phase separator) for further processing.
The process boundary is from the production well manifold to separation train
outlet.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 separators
5 Water Injection
5.1 Water
Injection
This process involves taking water from the water feed supply (produced or
seawater), filtering and conditioning it and injecting it down the well.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 booster and injection pumps
 meters
 choke
 de-aerators
 filters
 chemical injection package
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6 Metering
6.1 Metering
Systems
7 Utilities
7.1 Drain Systems
This process involves metering of process fluids (gas and liquid) and other
products – in accordance with regulatory/company requirements.
This process involves the collection and processing of hazardous /contaminated
hydrocarbons, liquids, oils, chemicals, slops through the open and closed drain
system and collection and filtering of non-hazardous domestic and storm water
through the drain system.
7.2 Nitrogen
Generation
Equipment will typically comprise:
 contactors
 scrubbers
 heat exchangers
 reboiler
 pumps
 filters
 reflux accumulator
 surge tanks
Knowledge:
 open and close hazardous systems
This process involves the generation and distribution of nitrogen for use within
processes.
7.3 Chemical
Injection
Equipment will typically comprise:
 compressors
 filters
 bottles
 pressure swing adsorption (PSA) skids
Knowledge:
 generating nitrogen cryogenically and by solid bed absorption
This process involves the storage and distribution of chemicals to process
injection points.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 pumps
 filters
 tanks
7.4 Fuel Gas Supply This process involves compressing/ conditioning process gas so that it is suitable
for use in a fuel gas system.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 pumps
 tanks
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7.5 Diesel Supply
This process involves the storage and distribution of diesel to end users.
7.6 Heating Medium
Supply
Equipment will typically comprise:
 pumps
 tanks
 filters
 centrifuges
 separator drums
This process involves providing heating media (steam, hot water, hot oil) to the
process and other areas as required.
7.7 Heating,
Ventilation and Air
Conditioning (HVAC)
7.8 Instrument and
Service Air Supply
7.9 Water Systems
7.10 Hydraulics
Equipment will typically comprise:
 heaters
 boilers
 pumps
 heat exchangers
This process involves extraction and the supply of suitable quality air to
maintain the specified environment (quality and pressure).
Equipment will typically comprise:
 filters
 heat exchangers
 fans
 mechanical refrigerators
 humidifiers
This process involves the compression and filtration, conditioning and
distribution of air for plant and instruments.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 compressor
 adsorbers
 air treatment packages
This process involves providing water (service water, fresh water, fire water) to
the process and other areas as required.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 pumps
 filters
 ozone generator
 tank
 water maker
 chlorine generator
This process involves providing a pressurised system to operate actuators,
valves subsea and top side.
Equipment will typically comprise:
 pumps
 filters
 intensifier
 accumulator
 manifolds
 storage tanks
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Section 7 – Example Assessment Forms
Example Assessment Plan
OPITO Process Operations: Hydrocarbons
Assessment Plan
Approved Centre
Candidate Name
Assessor Name
Standard
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Compression)
Outcomes
Outcome 2: Operate and Monitor the Process
Outcome 5: Complying with HSE and safe systems of work
Date of Plan
Plan No
Does the Candidate
any special
assessment needs?
Opportunities Assessment
for collecting methods
evidence
Candidate
operating and
monitoring the
gas
compression
process
Observation
Reports and
information
supplied to
others relating
to faults and
process upsets
identified by
the Candidate
Operational
records and
logs generated
and submitted
by the
Candidate
Completion by
the Candidate
of a
questionnaire
derived from
the standard
question bank
Review of
documents must be
authenticated
by testimonies
Performance Knowledge
Criteria
references
references
P2.1 to P2.4
and P5.1 to
P5.6
Also working
relationships
S3 and Safe
Systems of
Work S2.
P2.1 and P2.2.
Also working
relationships
S3
Review of logs
and records
P2.3 and P2.4
Testing of the
Candidate’s
knowledge
and
understanding
using the
question bank
As
appropriate
Version 1 – June 2014
Assessment
date(s) and
time
Assessment
review
date(s)/time
Feedback
date(s) and
time
K1.1 to K4.7,
as arising and
dependent on
ongoing
operations
K2.3 to K2.6
K1.1 to K4.7,
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Additional comments
Assessor
Signature
Date
Candidate
Comments
Signature
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Date
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Example Observation Record
OPITO Process Operations: Hydrocarbons
Observation Record
Approved Centre
Candidate Name
Assessor Name
Standard
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Compression)
Outcome
Isolate and Reinstate the Process
Date of Observation
Evidence Ref No
Skills/work activities observed:
The Candidate received instructions from the supervisor relating to the
isolation of the compressor for maintenance purposes. He discussed the
plan with other members of the team and those affected at the toolbox
talk. The necessary isolation certificates, standard operating procedures
and isolation task risk assessment were noted and deemed suitable for
implementation.
PCs covered
P4.1 and P4.2
P5.1 and P5.2
The compressor was isolated in accordance with the standard operating
procedure. No anomalies were identified.
P4.3
Integrity testing of the isolation was effective and the safety in respect to
the compressor was confirmed to the relevant departments and
personnel.
P4.4
The integrity of the isolation was effectively monitored and maintained
throughout the maintenance activities.
P4.5
The completion of the maintenance activities was agreed and confirmed
and recorded on the appropriate documentation.
P4.6
Integrity testing of the compressor followed and the Candidate confirmed
that the plant was fit and safe to be returned to normal service.
P4.7
S3
S2
The compressor was then de-isolated and reinstated. All records were
fully completed and activities were completed within the Candidate’s shift.
P4.8
Safe systems of work were maintained at all times.
P5.1 to P5.6
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Scope covered
S1
S2
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Additional evidence:
Criteria
covered
Knowledge and understanding inferred during the observation of performance
It was apparent during the observation of performance that the Candidate had a good
knowledge and understanding of safe systems of work, the company’s operating procedures
and environmental protection and recording policies.
Oral questions were asked during the observation whilst work being carried out and these
will supplement the written questions that will be taken from the question bank for the
Standard.
Oral questions listed in Knowledge Record
Behaviours observed
The candidate communicated effectively with the team and those affected by the
S3
operations.
Assessor’s comments on performance and feedback to the Candidate
Sufficient performance evidence was made available during the observation to satisfy the performance
evidence requirement of the Outcome.
Assessor
Signature
Date
Candidate
Comments
Signature
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Example Assessment Report
OPITO Process Operations: Hydrocarbons
Assessment Report
Approved Centre
Candidate Name
Assessor Name
O – observation
P – product evidence
Q – questions
W – witness testimony
Standard
Outcome 1: Start up the process
Ref No.
P1.1
P1.2
Performance Criteria
Achieved
Y/N
O/P/
Q/W
Evidence / Comments
Obtain relevant operational instructions and
ensure that information received on current
operational status is accurate and complete
Brief relevant personnel and organise work of
self and others, where appropriate
P1.3
Prepare and integrate plant and utilities
P1.4
Carry out pre-start checks
P1.5
Start up the process in accordance with
procedures
P1.6
Achieve steady state conditions
Identify and take relevant action to deal with
faults and any operational issues
Additional Assessor comments
P1.7
Assessor Signature
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Date
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Outcome 2: Operate and monitor the process
Ref No.
P2.1
P2.2
P2.3
P2.4
Performance Criteria
Achieved
Y/N
O/P/
Q/W
Evidence / Comments
Monitor and take relevant action to optimize
the process
Identify and take relevant action to deal with
upsets in the process
Ensure effective on-going communication of
relevant information on operational status
Maintain relevant records
Additional Assessor comments
Assessor Signature
Assessment
Date
Outcome 3: Shut down the process
Ref No.
Performance Criteria
Achieved
Y/N
O/P/
Q/W
Evidence / Comments
Obtain relevant operational instructions and
ensure that information received on current
operational status is accurate and complete
Brief relevant personnel and organise work of
P3.2
self and others, where appropriate
Shut down the process in accordance with
P3.3
procedures
Monitor the shut down and take relevant action
P3.4
to deal with issues
Additional Assessor comments
P3.1
Assessor Signature
Assessment
Date
Element 4: Isolate and reinstate the process
Ref No.
P4.1
P4.2
P4.3
Performance Criteria
Achieved
Y/N
O/P/
Q/W
Evidence / Comments
Obtain relevant operational instructions and
ensure that information received on current
operational status is accurate and complete
Brief relevant personnel and organise work of
self and others, where appropriate
Isolate plant and equipment for maintenance
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P4.4
P4.5
P4.6
P4.7
P4.8
Carry out integrity testing of the isolation and
confirm safety of the plant and equipment
Monitor and maintain the integrity of the
isolation
Confirm completion of maintenance and
associated documentation
Carry out integrity testing and confirm the plant
and equipment safe to return to service
De-isolate and reinstate plant and equipment
Additional Assessor comments
Assessor Signature
Assessment
Date
Element 5: Comply with HSE and safe systems of work
Ref No.
P5.1
P5.2
Performance Criteria
Achieved
Y/N
O/P/
Q/W
Evidence / Comments
Carry out relevant risk assessments and ensure
that controls are in place to ensure that risks
are as low as reasonably practicable
Ensure that relevant safety briefings are carried
out
P5.3
Work in accordance with safe systems of work
P5.4
Take relevant steps to protect the environment
P5.5
Identify issues which may impact on safe
systems of work and take relevant action
P5.6
Maintain relevant records
Additional Assessor comments
Assessor Signature
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Knowledge: Process - General
Ref No. Underpinning knowledge/understanding
K1
K2
K3
K4
Relation to control room operations
K6
How to connect to plant and utilities
K8
The principles of de-isolation
K10
How to carry out integrity tests
K11
How to take samples and interpret results
K13
Achieved
Y/N
Comments
Effects of loss of any utility and its
reinstatement
How to isolate plant and utilities from operating
sources, including isolation devices and
methods of installation
K9
K12
Comments
Phases of the production process, the reactions
taking place and the effect of changes on
physical and chemical properties (to include
toxicity, flammability, specific gravity (SG),
temperature)
Sources of information including operational
requirements, drawings, and manuals
Plant procedures and layout and its integration
with other processes
Functioning of process control including
instrumentation and logic
K5
K7
Achieved
Y/N
Methods and consequences of
depressurization/pressurization (to include
blowdown and temperature)
Blowdown and relief systems and their
limitations
Knowledge: Process – Gas Compression
Ref No. Underpinning knowledge/understanding
K14
K15
K16
K17
K18
K19
Function and operation of equipment for gas
compressor
Types of compressors e.g. centrifugal,
reciprocating
Utilities required for gas compression
Normal plant conditions and operating
parameters for gas compression
What steady state conditions are for gas
compression and how they are achieved
Factors impacting on performance and how to
achieve optimum processing for gas
compression
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Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
K20
K21
K22
K23
Types and causes of deviations and faults for
gas compression and the relevant actions to
take when they occur
The effects of changes in ambient conditions on
gas compression
Drain systems associated with the plant for gas
compression and their limitations (to include
capacity and radiation)
Flare/vent systems associated with the plant for
gas compression and their limitations (to
include capacity and radiation)
Knowledge: Process – Safe System of Work
Ref No. Underpinning knowledge/understanding
K24
K25
K26
K27
K28
Achieved
Y/N
Comments
The implications of health, safety and
environmental legislation
Work area hazards (e.g. toxic substances,
extreme weather conditions) and how to
identify/control/minimize them and reduce
risks to as low as reasonably practicable
Safe systems of work procedure
Consequences of emissions to the environment
and procedures for dealing with spillages and
uncontrolled emissions
Segregation of waste materials
Knowledge: Process – Critical and emergency situations
Ref No. Underpinning knowledge/understanding
Achieved
Y/N
Comments
Critical conditions for process and how to
control and respond to them
The effect and potential implications of loss of
K30
any critical process and its reinstatement
The principles and effect of hydrocarbon
K31
hydrate formation, prevention and dispersion
Emergency response procedures for plant and
K32
location
The operation of, and implications of the
K33
emergency shutdown (ESD) control systems
The operation and implications of the fire and
K34
gas control systems
Action to be taken in the event of critical and
K35
emergency situations
Additional Assessor comments
K29
Assessor Signature
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
Behaviours: Working Relationships and Safe Systems of Work
(Behaviours and attitude are additional considerations for determining competent performance in the workplace. They
need to be demonstrated by the Candidate during normal work activities)
Ref No.
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
2.1
2.2
2.3
Achieved
Y/N
Performance Criteria
O/P/
Q/W
Evidence / Comments
Make clear efforts to establish and maintain
productive working relationships
Ensure
effective
communication
with
colleagues on operational matters
Communicate all relevant information on
activities,
progress
and
results
to
supervisors/managers
Provide support and advice for colleagues
within own area of responsibility.
Wear correct PPE at all times
Comply with regulations including control of
substances, manual handling, working at height
Proactively raise safety issues and participate in
a safety culture
2.4
Ensure work area is kept clear
2.5
Dispose of waste in accordance
environmental requirements
2.6
Take part in safety drills and briefings
with
Additional Assessor comments
Assessor Signature
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
OPITO Process Operations: Hydrocarbons
Assessment Summary Report
Approved Centre
Candidate Name
Assessor Name
Internal Verifier Name
Standard
Assessor declaration
I can confirm that the Candidate *has met / has not met the criteria for this Standard and
that all work undertaken was performed by the Candidate *Delete as applicable
Feedback to Candidate:
Note: If the Candidate has not met the criteria for this Standard: state the reasons why, and suggest any training
requirement to address the competence gap.
Assessor
Signature
Date
Candidate
Comments
Signature
Date
Internal Verifier
Comments
Signature
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
Section 8 - Blank Forms
The forms shown on the following pages are basic examples of those generally used within Approved
Centres. Forms may be devised by the centres providing the contents meet the requirements.
Assessment Plan
OPITO Process Operations: Hydrocarbons
Assessment Plan
Approved Centre
Candidate Name
Assessor Name
Standard
Outcomes
Date of Plan
Does the Candidate
any special
assessment needs?
Opportunities Assessment
for collecting methods
evidence
Plan No
Performance Knowledge
Criteria
references
references
Assessment
date(s) and
time
Assessment
review
date(s)/time
Feedback
date(s) and
time
Additional comments
Assessor
Signature
Date
Candidate
Comments
Signature
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
Unit Achievement Record
OPITO Process Operations: Hydrocarbons
Achievement Record
Approved Centre
Candidate Name
Assessor Name
Qualification
Requirement
OPITO Global Vocational Qualification L3: Processing Operations (Hydrocarbons)
The Candidate needs to complete eight Standards to gain the qualification with five
Standards to be taken from Group A and a further three Standards to be completed
from either Group A or B.
Assessor’s signature
Date
Group A
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Tanker Loading - Oil)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Storage Tank - Oil)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Tanker Loading - Liquefied Gas)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Storage Tank - Liquefied Gas)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Compression)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Fractionation)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (NGL Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas Treatment)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Gas and Liquid Inlet Facilities)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Produced Water Treatment)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Vent and Flare System)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Pigging and Sphering Operations)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Crude Oil Stabilisation)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Well Products Separation)
Group B
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Wellheads)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Well Integrity)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Water Injection)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Metering Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Drain Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Heating Medium Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Nitrogen Generation)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Chemical Injection)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Fuel Gas Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Diesel Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Heating, Ventilation and Air
Conditioning)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Instrument and Service Air Supply)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Water Systems)
Operate an Oil and Gas Process (Hydraulics)
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Index of Evidence
OPITO Process Operations: Hydrocarbons
Index of Evidence
Approved Centre
Candidate Name
Assessor Name
OPITO Global Vocational Qualification L3: Processing Operations (Hydrocarbons)
Qualification
Evidence Description of evidence
Location of the evidence Sampled by the IV
(e.g. Candidate portfolio,
Number
(initials and date)
electronic, database etc.)
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In Observation Record
OPITO Process Operations: Hydrocarbons
Observation Record
Approved Centre
Candidate Name
Assessor Name
Standard
Outcome
Date of Observation
Evidence Ref No
Skills/work activities observed:
PCs covered
Additional evidence:
Scope covered
Criteria
covered
Knowledge and understanding inferred during the observation of performance
Behaviours observed
Assessor’s comments on performance and feedback to the Candidate
Sufficient performance evidence was made available during the observation to satisfy the performance
evidence requirement of the Outcome.
Assessor
Signature
Date
Candidate
Comments
Signature
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Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
Witness Testimony
OPITO Process Operations: Hydrocarbons
Witness Testimony
Approved Centre
Candidate Name
Witness Name
Witness Details
Standard
Outcome
Date of Testimony
Evidence Ref No
Details of testimony:
PCs covered
Scope covered
Comments (to be written in the witness’s own hand to provide authenticity to the testimony):
Witness
Signature
Date
Assessor
Comments
Signature
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OPITO Global Assessment Guidelines
Global Vocational Qualifications - Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons
Question Record
OPITO Process Operations: Hydrocarbons
Oral Question Record
Approved Centre
Candidate Name
Assessor Name
Qualification
OPITO Global Vocational Qualification L3: Processing Operations (Hydrocarbons)
Evidence Ref No
Question
Number
Question (include details of when asked)
Candidate Response
Knowledge
Criteria
Assessor
Signature
Date
Candidate
Signature
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