Development of an Interactive E-Learning Geohazards Training Program for Pipeline Operations Personnel

Abstract

Abstract Geohazards on pipeline right-of-way have the potential to threaten pipeline integrity and pose safety and environmental risks. Identification of geohazard sites is a necessary first step in the management of geohazards. Geohazard identification should be accomplished with a multi-dimensional approach that includes a combination of subject matter expert assessment, field observations by pipeline operations personnel, in-line inspections and aerial patrols. Pipeline operations personnel may require additional training to effectively perform this important function. This paper describes a collaboration between an engineering consultant and a pipeline operator on the development of an hour-long interactive e-learning geohazards training program specifically designed for pipeline operations personnel. The development began by clearly establishing the learning objectives, the target audience, and the delivery format for the training. Topics covered in the training include why geohazards management is important for pipeline operations, common types of geotechnical, hydrotechnical, and third-party geohazards encountered on pipeline right-of-way, signs during field observations that may indicate the presence of potential geohazards and how to document and report field observations of potential geohazards. The training was illustrated throughout with photographs showing real-world examples of geohazards on pipeline right-of-way. These photographs were contributed by subject matter experts who frequently perform field identification, assessment, monitoring and design mitigation measures for geohazards on pipeline right-of-way. The team prepared written narration read by a professional narrator. Additionally, the team prepared a series of ungraded knowledge check questions incorporated throughout the presentation and a graded 10-question course examination taken after completing the training to confirm participant comprehension. The final step of the development involved transitioning the course to Articulate Storyline software to allow for the course to be taken online. The training has been uploaded and integrated into the pipeline operator’s learning management system. This paper shares the steps that went into developing this interactive e-learning geohazards training program and the operations improvements expected as a result of the expanded geohazard identification training for pipeline operations personnel.