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Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control

Room Operations (0779)


National Occupational Standards
www.cityandguilds.com
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Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control


Room Operations (0779)
National Occupational Standards

www.cityandguilds.com
Version 1.0

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Contents

About this document............................................................................................ 7

1.1

Publications and sources of information ........................................................................8

Centre resource requirements............................................................................. 9

2.1

Obtaining centre and qualification approval ..................................................................9

2.2

Registration and certification .......................................................................................10

Qualification Structure ....................................................................................... 11

3.1

Level 3 Refinery Operations Control Room...................................................................11

Assessment requirements for Refinery Field Operations ................................ 12

4.1

Introduction .................................................................................................................12

National Occupation Standards Refinery Field Operations ........................... 15

Unit 200:

Maintaining the Safety of Refinery Operations................................................. 16

Unit 201:

Commissioning Process Operations .................................................................. 20

Unit 202:

Controlling Process Operations ......................................................................... 24

Unit 203:

Managing the Response to Incidents, Hazardous Conditions &


Emergencies........................................................................................................ 27

Unit 205:

Responding to Abnormal Process Conditions .................................................. 33

Unit 206:

Shutting Down Process Operations................................................................... 37

NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations Level 3: Key Skills Signposting ........................... 40

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About this document

Introduction
This document provides details of the requirements specific to this N/SVQ qualification which includes:

the requirements for occupational competence for all those involved in assessing performance

specific assessment requirements and

the National Occupational Standards.


It is designed to be used in conjunction with the following documents (on the CD):

the N/SVQ Candidate Guide and Logbook

the N/SVQ Centre Guide.


Details of general regulations, registration and certification procedures, including fees, are
included on the City & Guilds website.

City & Guilds websites


Website

Address

Purpose and content

City & Guilds


main website

www.cityandguilds.com

This is the main website for finding out


about City & Guilds qualifications. It contains
qualification documentation and updates.

SmartScreen

www.smartscreen.co.uk

SmartScreen is the City & Guilds online


learning support website. It gives registered
subscribers access to qualification-specific
support materials.

Walled Garden

www.walled-garden.com

The Walled Garden is a qualification


administration portal for approved centres,
enabling them to register candidates and
claim certification online.

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

1 About this document


1.1 Publications and sources of information

This document has been designed to be used with the City & Guilds NVQ Guides:
Publication

Content

Available
from

Centre guide

An overview of NVQ assessment, delivery and quality


assurance issues.

EN-12-001

Candidate guide

An introduction to NVQs, candidate responsibilities


and an overview of the assessment process.

TS-12-001

Recording forms

Forms both centres and candidates may use to record


evidence.

TS-33-0001

Visit the City & Guilds website (www.cityandguilds.com) for the latest versions of these documents.

Other essential City & Guilds documents


There are other City & Guilds documents which contain general information on City & Guilds
qualifications:

Providing City & Guilds qualifications a guide to centre and qualification approval
contains detailed information about the processes which must be followed and requirements which
must be met for a centre to achieve approved centre status, or to offer a particular qualification.

Ensuring quality
contains updates on City & Guilds assessment and policy issues.

Centre toolkit
contains additional information on Providing City & Guilds qualifications, in a CD-ROM, which links to
the internet for access to the latest documents, reference materials and templates.

Directory of qualifications
contains details of general regulations, registration and certification procedures and fees. This
information is available online.

For the latest updates on our publications and details of how to obtain them and other City & Guilds
resources, please refer to the City & Guilds website.

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

2 Centre resource requirements


2.1 Obtaining centre and qualification approval

Centres wishing to offer City & Guilds qualifications must gain approval.
New centres must apply for centre and scheme/qualification approval.
Existing City & Guilds centres will need to get specific scheme/qualification approval to run these
awards.
City & Guilds reserves the right to suspend an approved centre, or withdraw its approval from an
approved centre to conduct City & Guilds qualifications for reasons of debt, malpractice or for any
reason that maybe detrimental to the maintenance of authentic, reliable and valid qualifications or that
may prejudice the name of City & Guilds.

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

2 Centre resource requirements


2.2 Registration and certification

Registration and certification period


Centres should be aware of time constraints regarding the registration and certification periods for the
NVQ, as specified in the City & Guilds Directory of qualifications.
Please check the Directory of qualifications for the latest information on length of registration and the
last registration and certification dates.
Where the period of access to assessment offered by a centre is less than the period covered by the
candidates registration with City & Guilds, centres must ensure that this is understood by the candidates

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

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3 Qualification Structure
3.1 Level 3 Refinery Operations Control Room

The candidate must complete all 7 units to achieve the full award

Mandatory units
200 Maintaining the Safety of Refinery Operations
200.1 Maintain the safety of plant and equipment
200.2 Maintain the safety of self and others
200.3 Protect the environment
201 Commissioning Process Operations
201.1 Complete pre start-up checks and tests
201.2 Start up plant and equipment to achieve normal operating conditions
201.3 Manage abnormal start-up conditions
202 Controlling Process Operations
202.1 Maintain process conditions
202.2 Achieve and optimise new process conditions
203 Managing the Response to Incidents, Hazardous Conditions and emergencies
203.1 Manage the reporting of incidents, hazardous conditions and emergencies
203.2 Manage the correction of incidents, hazardous conditions and emergencies
204 Managing Process Condition Information
204.1 Exchange information on process conditions at handover
204.2 Manage information 205 Responding to Abnormal Process Conditions
205.1 Diagnose problems affecting process conditions
205.2 Correct abnormal process conditions
205.3 Communicate information on actions taken
206 Shutting Down Process Operations
206.1 Establish shutdown conditions in process systems and equipment
206.2 Shut down process to specified state

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4 Assessment requirements for Refinery Field Operations


4.1 Introduction

1.

Development of Assessment Strategy

Cogent, with the assistance of City & Guilds and Scottish Qualifications Authority and in consultation with
the UK oil refineries industry working group, has developed an assessment strategy for the N/SVQs in
Refinery Control Room Operations Level 3. It caters for all activities incorporated in these national
occupational standards. This approach provides a process acceptable to those within the industry that
have regularly contributed and have been consulted during development.

2.

Assessment of Standards in the Workplace

The assessment methods used to assess the occupational competence of the candidates should be
valid, reliable, fair and applicable to real work in the normal day to day working environment.
2.1 Delivery of Assessment.
The Refineries industry work group has agreed that all of the units other than 203, being:

Unit 203 Managing the response to incidents, hazardous conditions & emergencies take place at
the workplace.

Unit 203 only is suitable for assessment entirely by simulation.


In the event of a candidate being unable to generate workplace evidence for a particular Standard of
Performance (other 203) then assessment by simulation must be agreed with the external verifier.
The standards set out the evidence requirements and the assessment will consist of naturally
occurring activities, examples of which are:
a
Assessment of the practical examples of work undertaken by the candidate directly and/or with
suitable verifiable witness statements
b
Questioning of the underpinning knowledge and understanding either verbal or written or via a
secure and verifiable on-line or other secure electronic system.
2.2 Achieving External Quality Control
The preferred methods of enhancing external quality control is Statistical Monitoring and Risk Rating
of Centres.
Statistical Monitoring and Risk Rating of Centres.
This requires a robust auditable system of data collection, analysis, risk assessment and action planning.
Awarding Bodies delivering the awards should provide arrangements for fulfilment of these
requirements.
External quality control of assessment will require the services of an external verifier. External
verifiers are appointed by the awarding bodies.
The external verifier will provide a key link in the quality assurance chain, supporting and advising
centres and reporting back to the awarding body to act as their agents.
The roles and responsibilities of the external verifier will include:

The provision of assessment information, advisory and support services to the centre.

Verify assessment practice and centre procedures.

Maintain records of visits and provide feedback to the awarding bodies and NTOs.
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2.3 Assessment Centres


The awarding body will approve assessment centres.
2.4
a
b

Assessment Methods
Direct Assessment. Direct assessment is the preferred assessment method of work place
performance and the practical day to day skills of the candidate. This will include the observation
and questioning of workplace practice.
Indirect Assessment. Direct assessment may not always be possible. It will be therefore necessary
to rely on supplementary evidence to confirm performance.

Simulated Working Conditions

It has been agreed that under normal circumstances, only unit 203 will be assessed using simulation.
However, notwithstanding this statement, due to the nature of the industry most of which involves
continuous processes, it may upon exceptional circumstances be necessary to assess candidates
performance using simulation.
This will include simulating certain working conditions which otherwise cannot be interrupted to assess
performance.
In setting up a simulation of working conditions the following criteria will always be observed:

The assessor must review and agree the candidate assessment plan

A risk assessment of the plant or process must be carried out to ascertain the hazards associated
with carrying out a candidate assessment using live plant

Simulated conditions must be understood as meaning, as closely reproduced working conditions


as is reasonably practicable.
All simulation methods must have prior approval from the external verifier. Simulation must not be
perceived as a soft option to assess performance. It must be made clear to all concerned during the
risk assessment that every effort be made to assess candidates on as much live plant as possible and
that simulation only be applied where by virtue of the nature of the process, it carries too high a risk to
people, plant and equipment to be carried out live.

4.

Occupational Expertise for Assessors and Verifiers

In addition to the requirements of the regulatory bodies the following must be noted:
4.1 Assessors
A minimum of two years operational experience within the petro-chemical sector with the relevant
occupational background is required. Also, assessors must have a full working knowledge of National
Occupational Standards for Control Room Operations.
4.2 Internal Verifiers
A minimum of two years operational experience within the petro-chemical sector with the relevant
occupational background is required. Also, internal verifiers must have a full working knowledge of
National Occupational Standards for Control Room Operations.

5.

The Consultation Process

A working group comprising refinery members from Shell, TotalFinaElf, Texaco, Esso, Conoco, BP,
awarding and standard setting bodies namely City & Guilds, SQA Qualifications Technology Unit and
cogent held a series of meetings to discuss the assessment strategy, its implementation, application and
measurement.
In summary, the outcomes from these meetings were:
a
All interested groups support the development of an assessment strategy.
Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

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c
d

All representatives agree that company site specific risk assessment be carried out to assess the
level of simulation to be applied with particular reference to site and company regulations and
special work rules. In addition, all forms of health, safety and environment legislation must be
taken into account.
All interested groups agree that the enhanced external quality control will be achieved via section
2 sub section 2.2 of this document.
All interested groups agree that the current increasing trend in the number of candidates
undertaking N/SVQs shows significant confidence from within the industry that such standards
form an integral part of the UK oil refineries employee development strategy. Candidate support of
the scheme can be obtained through anecdotal evidence supplied by several sources upon
request.
Regular reviews are carried out to ensure any changes in business plans, technology, roles and
responsibilities are reflected in the assessment strategy. Lessons learned from past experience
and best practice are reflected in the review process.

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National Occupation Standards Refinery Field Operations

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Unit 200:

Maintaining the Safety of Refinery Operations

This unit is about your contribution to the safety aspects of working in a processing
environment.
You will be involved in activities such as:

maintaining the safety of plant and equipment under your control

maintaining the safety of self and others

protecting the environment


During this work you must take account of the relevant operational requirements and safe working
practices as they apply to you.

Unit Guidance
Evidence of Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

how to select, use and care for PPE (to include sight/hearing protection, gloves, footwear, hard
hats, respirators)

the implications of statutory (e.g. HASAWA and COSHH) and organisational requirements

how to interpret operational requirements (e.g. policies, procedures, instructions, codes of


practice, standards, schedules)

the plant layout in the working area

the potential hazards associated with the particular working area

the position of other relevant areas outside the plant

the types of activity occurring, and possible hazards, in areas adjacent to plant

your own responsibilities and duties

the procedures for obtaining emergency services

the safety roles of immediate supervisors, colleagues and safety representatives

the location and position of emergency exits, muster points and emergency equipment

how to deal with the appropriate safety equipment (to include breathing apparatus; fire fighting
systems; external alarms when activated from the control room; override systems and their status;
CCTV and video equipment; safety shower alarms; gas alarms; integrity of control equipment )

the appropriate responses to fire and gas alarms on adjacent plant

the potential hazards associated with work procedures and the safety precautions required

the overall impact of refinery operations on the environment

your duties under current environmental legislation

how to work with and within the Permit to Work system

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Element 200.1: Maintain the Safety of Plant and Equipment


This element is about your contribution to maintaining a safe working area.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
co-ordinated the function tests and checks of safety and emergency equipment and alarms
2
identified safety hazards
3
taken appropriate action on identification of safety hazards
4
ensured that people within the work area are aware of the potential hazards and directed to a safe
area as appropriate
5
ensured that access to and egress from working area is maintained at all times
6
kept working area clean and tidy in accordance with requirements
7
kept clear all escape routes and access to emergency and safety equipment
8
ensured that only authorised people are allowed access to the work area
9
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the appropriate actions to take on the identification of safety hazards (eg rectification of hazard;
prompt reporting; discontinuation of work; making all those affected aware; directing all those
affected to a safe area)

how to keep the working area satisfactorily clean and tidy

the procedures for allowing people in the work area

how to identify and report defects in safety and operations equipment.

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Element 200.2: Maintain Safety of Self and Others


This element is about your contribution to maintaining your own safety and also that of others working in
areas under your control.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
ensured that safety equipment is in place and is operational
2
identified equipment deficiencies and taken appropriate action
3
communicated relevant information clearly and promptly
4
co-ordinated safe working practices in the designated area
5
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the appropriate actions to take on identification of equipment deficiencies (to include rectification
of deficiency; prompt reporting; discontinuation of work; making all those affected aware; making
use of additional people)

the timescale for rectifying system faults

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Element 200.3 : Protect the Environment


This element is about your contribution to the protection of the environment.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
advised and consulted with appropriate personnel prior to any discharge or emission
2
ensured that the amount of material discharged into flare system is minimised
3
ensured that the amount of pollutant discharged into dedicated drainage systems is minimised
4
ensured that the level of atmospheric emissions is minimised
5
ensured that noise levels are minimised
6
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the appropriate personnel with whom to consult and advise regarding discharges and emissions

the specified limits for discharges and emissions into the environment

how to minimise noise levels

the classification of waste products

the appropriate method of disposal for relevant waste classifications

the need for discharge and emission limits and the implications for exceeding them

how the overall environmental system operates (eg sewers; separators; flares)

the operating procedures which have the most potential for environmental impact

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Unit 201:

Commissioning Process Operations

This unit is about your contribution to the starting-up process.


You will be involved in activities such as:

completing pre start-up checks and tests

starting up plant and equipment to achieve normal operating conditions

managing abnormal start-up conditions


During this work you must take account of the relevant operational requirements and safe working
practices as they apply to you.

Unit Guidance
Evidence of Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the implications of statutory (eg HASAWA and COSHH) and organisational requirements

how to interpret operational requirements (eg policies, procedures, instructions, codes of


practice, standards, schedules)

how (to include face to face; telephone; radio; electronically) and when to communicate
information (to include reporting of abnormalities; notification of completion of start-up checks)
with the appropriate people

the process principles

the operating principles of control systems, trip systems and logic sequences

how to access and interpret the plant manuals

the start-up procedures

how to work with and within the Permit to Work system

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Element 201.1: Complete Pre Start-Up Checks and Tests


This element is about your contribution to the completion of pre start-up checks and tests.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
obtained the appropriate authorisation and documentation for start-up
2
correctly identified control systems
3
co-ordinated checks with the appropriate people
4
completed each test and check within the defined limits
5
completed all relevant documentation
6
identified any abnormality between plant status and start-up documentation
7
communicated all relevant information to the appropriate personnel
8
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Scope
Checks and tests relevant to the work area under your control eg:

Function tests on loops

Alarms

Overrides

Interlocks

Verification checks on status of plant and equipment involved

Checks on availability of utilities

Confirmation of process line-ups

Relevant documentation
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

how to access, interpret and progress start-up documentation and authorisation

how to correctly identify control systems and co-ordinate checks

how to identify abnormalities

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

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Element 201.2: Start-up Plant and Equipment To Achieve Normal Operating


Conditions
This element is about your competence in staged commissioning of start-up in order to bring about
normal operating conditions.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
commissioned each stage of the plant according to start-up procedures
2
implemented a logical scanning routine and responded appropriately to alarms
3
kept appropriate people informed of progress throughout start-up
4
achieved normal operating conditions and specifications within the defined timescale
5
completed all relevant documentation
6
ensured that waste has been minimised during start-up
7
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

how to access, interpret and progress the relevant records (to include readings; checklist; logs)

the principles, purpose and significance of commissioning

how to implement a logical scanning routine

what the normal conditions are and how to achieve them

how to minimise waste during start-up

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Element 201.3: Manage Abnormal Start-Up Conditions


This element is about your competence in identifying and managing abnormalities during start-up.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
identified the abnormality
2
reported the abnormality to the appropriate personnel for action
3
identified the potential impact of the abnormality and informed relevant people
4
provided clear and timely instructions to field operators
5
prioritised problems and co-ordinated appropriate additional assistance
6
corrected the abnormality and minimised wastage
7
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Scope
Managing the abnormalities that arise within your work area eg

Instrument

Mechanical

Utility

Logic and safety systems

Process

Taking the remedial action appropriate to your work area eg

Taking direct control by remote operation of equipment

Coordinating the actions of others

Correcting pre start-up conditions


Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

how to identify the potential impact of the abnormality

how to prioritise problems

how to identify the need for additional assistance and the nature of that assistance

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

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Unit 202:

Controlling Process Operations

This unit is about your contribution to controlling the process. You will be involved in activities such as:

maintaining process conditions

achieving and optimising new process conditions


During this work you must take account of the relevant operational requirements and safe working
practices as they apply to you.

Unit Guidance
Scope
Controlling the process conditions inside and outside the control room
Controlling the operating conditions based on relevant information eg

results of sample analysis

daily planning

control applications
Evidence of Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the implications of statutory (eg HASAWA and COSHH) and organisational requirements

how to interpret operational requirements (eg policies, procedures, instructions, codes of


practice, standards, schedules)

the principles of process and control

how to work with and within the Permit to Work system

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Element 202.1 : Maintain Process Conditions


This element is about your contribution to maintaining the process conditions in your work area.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
maintained the process conditions in accordance with specification
2
recorded and reported conditions outside accepted tolerances to appropriate people
3
ensured that necessary adjustments cause minimum process upset
4
completed all relevant documentation
5
responded appropriately to all alarms
6
communicated all relevant information to appropriate people
7
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the principles of controlling process operations

how to achieve minimum process upset during adjustment

the appropriate records (eg log book; specified documentation)

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Element 202.2: Achieve and Optimise New Process Conditions


This element is about your contribution to the achievement and optimisation of new process conditions
within your work area.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
ensured that new conditions are achieved and optimised
2
maintained systematic monitoring of conditions throughout the operation
3
used operational resources
4
completed all relevant documentation
5
responded appropriately to all alarms
6
communicated all relevant information to appropriate people
7
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the principles of achieving and optimising new process conditions

how to use operational resources efficiently

how to implement a systematic monitoring system

the appropriate records (to include log book; specified documentation)

the principles of mass balance

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Unit 203:

Managing the Response to Incidents, Hazardous


Conditions & Emergencies

This unit is about your competence to manage the response to incidents, hazardous conditions and
emergencies.
You will be involved in activities such as:

managing the reporting of incidents, hazardous conditions and emergencies

managing the correction of incidents, hazardous conditions and emergencies


During this work you must take account of the relevant operational requirements and safe working
practices as they apply to you.

Unit Guidance
Scope
Reporting and correcting incidents, hazardous conditions and emergencies that may occur eg

Fire

Flood

Toxic vapour and/or liquid release

Injured personnel

Uncontrolled release of hydrocarbons

Explosions

Major plant and service failure

Control room equipment failure


Evidence of Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

how to select, use and care for PPE (eg sight/hearing protection, gloves, footwear, hard hats,
respirators, breathing apparatus)

the implications of statutory (eg HASAWA and COSHH) and organisational requirements

how to interpret operational requirements (eg policies, procedures, instructions, codes of


practice, standards, schedules)

how to work with and within the Permit to Work system

emergency procedures for plant and site

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Element 203.1: Manage the Reporting of Incidents, Hazardous Conditions and


Emergencies
This element is about your contribution to the management of the reporting of incidents, hazardous
conditions and emergencies. This applies to you and to those working in the area under your control.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
confirmed the nature, location and scope of incident
2
raised the appropriate alarms
3
reported the incident to the appropriate people in accordance with plant reporting procedures
4
provided clear and accurate information to the appropriate people
5
completed all relevant documentation
6
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the types of incidents which should be reported

how the alarm should be raised for each type of incident

how to access, interpret and implement site emergency plans; environmental procedures; plant
emergency procedures

the appropriate communications procedures

how to communicate effectively (eg verbal; written)

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Element 203.2: Manage the Correction of Incidents, Hazardous Conditions and


Emergencies
This element is about your contribution to the management of the correction of incidents, hazardous
conditions and emergencies. This applies to you and to those working in the area under your control.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
followed appropriate procedures after the situation has been assessed
2
informed appropriate people as actions are taken
3
provided up to date process inventory information to the appropriate people
4
taken the correct actions, in accordance with procedures, to make the process safe
5
taken the correct actions, in accordance with procedures, to deal with the incident
6
minimised the incident, hazard or emergency
7
minimised waste and loss
8
acted promptly and in association with others
9
modified actions in response to changing conditions
10
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the procedure for responding at an early stage of an incident.

how to access, interpret and implement site emergency plans; environmental procedures; plant
emergency procedures

your own responsibilities during emergencies

the appropriate communications procedures

the potential incidents within your area of responsibility and the action to be taken

the need for and use of specified emergency equipment

the appropriate first response to casualties

the effect of emergency on plant, equipment and personnel

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Unit 204: Managing Process Condition Information


This unit is about your competence in dealing with all the relevant types of information related to the
condition of the process under your control.
You will be involved in activities such as:

exchanging information on process conditions at handover

managing information
During this work you must take account of the relevant operational requirements and safe working
practices as they apply to you.

Unit Guidance
Evidence of Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the implications of statutory (eg HASAWA and COSHH) and organisational requirements

how to interpret operational requirements (eg policies, procedures, instructions, codes of


practice, standards, schedules)

the operating principles of process systems

how to work with and within the Permit to Work system

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

30

Element 204.1: Exchange Information on Process Conditions at Handover


This element is about your competence in exchanging information on process conditions at handover.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
provided clear, full and accurate description of current status of work area to appropriate person
2
received clear, full and accurate description of current status of work area from appropriate
person
3
completed all relevant documentation
4
ensured that handover takes place at a designated location
Scope
Handing over information relevant to your work area eg

handover logs

verbal

permits
Handing over information on the following types of plant conditions:

Normal

abnormal
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the types, quality and format of information that you must provide and receive

the designated locations for handovers to take place

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

31

Element 204.2: Manage Information


This element is about your ability to monitor, record, analyse and communicate information on process
conditions relevant to your work area.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
monitored the process condition at the appropriate frequency
2
analysed, interpreted and measured the information
3
used a logical scanning technique
4
completed all relevant documentation
5
identified readings and control conditions which are outside agreed parameters
6
obtained and recorded readings from field areas
7
analysed readings in a logical and decisive manner
8
promptly informed appropriate personnel of process conditions
9
filed all records in accordance with local procedures
10
supplied accurate, concise and complete information in response to requests
Scope
Monitoring the following:

process variables

control status
Managing information relevant to your work area eg

historical

current data and predictions

log books

data sheets
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the information that has to be communicated

the main methods of communication (eg face to face; telephone; radio; written; IT)

the importance of accuracy and clarity

the principles of mass balance

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

32

Unit 205:

Responding to Abnormal Process Conditions

This unit is about your ability to respond appropriately to abnormal process conditions.
You will be involved in activities such as:

diagnosing problems affecting process conditions

correcting abnormal process conditions

communicating information on actions taken


During this work you must take account of the relevant operational requirements and safe working
practices as they apply to you.

Unit Guidance
Scope
Diagnosing problems that may occur in your work area eg

process conditions control systems interaction with other work areas

climatic conditions process materials and contaminants


Evidence of Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the implications of statutory (eg HASAWA and COSHH) and organisational requirements

how to interpret operational requirements (eg policies, procedures, instructions, codes of


practice, standards, schedules)

the operating principles of the process and control systems

how to work with and within the Permit to Work system

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

33

Element 205.1: Diagnose Problems Affecting Process Conditions


This element is about your competence in diagnosing problems that affect the process conditions.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
obtained all possible relevant information from appropriate sources
2
informed appropriate people of the problem
3
analysed the problem in a systematic manner
4
drawn logical conclusions based on accurate interpretation of the available information
5
made and recorded useful recommendations for action to solve the problem
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the appropriate sources of information (eg readings; records; reports; field observations;
statements from colleagues)

how to adopt a systematic approach to problem analysis

how to interpret all available information and make useful recommendations to solve the problem

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

34

Element 205.2: Correct Abnormal Process Conditions


This element is about your contribution to the correction of abnormal process conditions.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
taken prompt, appropriate and effective action after the investigation
2
monitored the corrective action until normal process condition is re-established
3
responded appropriately to changing conditions
4
maintained process integrity
5
minimised waste and damage
6
sought assistance from relevant people where appropriate
7
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Scope
Taking corrective action eg

Instructing field operators to take control of local equipment

Initiating a shutdown

Starting stand-by equipment

Controlling process using alternative modes of control


Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

how to find out the appropriate action to take and whom to inform about it

the operating principles of trip systems and logic sequences

the start-up and shut-down procedures

the meaning of process integrity and how to maintain it

how to minimise waste and damage and the importance of doing that

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

35

Element 205.3: Communicate Information on Actions Taken


This element is about your competence in communicating relevant information to others on action taken.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
informed appropriate personnel of actions taken
2
ensured that the communication is clear, accurate complete and prompt
3
completed all relevant documentation
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the type of information to communicate to others (eg process conditions; equipment)

the type of communication to use (eg telephone; written; IT)

the appropriate documentation to complete (eg log books; data sheets)

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

36

Unit 206:

Shutting Down Process Operations

This unit is about your competence in shutting down the process operations.
You will be involved in activities such as:

establishing shutdown conditions in process systems and equipment

shutting down process to specified state


During this work you must take account of the relevant operational requirements and safe working
practices as they apply to you.

Unit Guidance
Scope
Shutting down process operations across all sections of plant and equipment that are part of the
process under your control.
Evidence of Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

how to select, use and care for PPE (eg sight/hearing protection, gloves, footwear, hard hats,
respirators)

the implications of statutory (eg HASAWA and COSHH) and organisational requirements

how to interpret operational requirements (eg policies, procedures, instructions, codes of


practice, standards, schedules)

the operating principles of relevant equipment (to include rotating; non-rotating and storage; heat
transfer; control)

the principles of the process

the operating principles of trip systems; logic sequences; control systems

plant layout and plant operating manuals

equipment shutdown procedures

how to work with an within the Permit to Work system

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

37

Element 206.1: Establish Shutdown Conditions in Process Systems and


Equipment
This element is about your competence in establishing shutdown conditions across all sections of plant
and equipment that are part of the process under your control.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
obtained confirmation for shutdown to proceed
2
correctly identified equipment and checked status with field operator
3
ensured that all relevant resources are available to support shutdown
4
informed all relevant people of possible impact on them due to shutdown
5
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the potential problems and appropriate action to be taken in preparing for shutdown

the relevant documentation (eg operating procedures; permits)

the consequences of shutting down the equipment in the wrong sequence

the effect on the remainder of the plant where the item of equipment is taken out of service

the effect on plant in adjacent areas

the situations when shutdown should not proceed

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

38

Element 206.2: Shutdown Process to Specified State


This element is about your competence in shutting down all sections of plant and equipment that are
part of the process under your control.
Standards of Performance
In achieving this element you will have:
1
completed the shut down in accordance with specified procedures and timescales
2
identified and corrected abnormalities
3
completed all relevant documentation
4
informed appropriate personnel when shutdown is completed to specified state
5
worked safely in accordance with operational requirements
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding (see also Unit Guidance)
Within the limits of your responsibility you must be able to demonstrate that you know:

the potential problems and appropriate action to be taken if item of equipment is not shut down
correctly

the consequences if item of equipment is not isolated correctly

the importance of time taken to shut down and isolate item of equipment to specified state

the relevant documentation (eg operating procedures; permits; logs)

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

39

NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations Level 3: Key Skills


Signposting

* signifies that the evidence generated for the element (of the NVQ) is also highly likely
to satisfy the Key Skill requirement.

Level 3 NVQ in Refinery Control Room Operations (0779)

40

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