RigPass curriculum changes approved

Curriculum changes are effective immediately for all new RigPass applicants. Currently accredited training providers must implement the revised curriculum no later than 1 October 2009. They must incorporate the new curriculum topics into their training programs and notify ACD staff of an implementation date for the modifications.

In revamping the general safety principles module, panel members emphasized that today’s petroleum industry empowers employees, even new-hires, to take a more proactive role in worksite safety. The concept of “stop work” or work intervention is supported by most, if not all, companies in the industry. The revised curriculum reflects this, with a discussion of the authority given to employees to stop or intervene in unsafe work practices.

Also added was a discussion of job safety analysis/job hazard analysis. The discussion of items prohibited in work areas was expanded to include cell phones and other personal electronic devices, drug paraphernalia and other items.

The materials handling module was expanded to include a discussion of critical lifts.

The first aid module was totally reworked and is now a module on first aid and employee health. Health topics regarding staph and other risks that may be associated with adverse weather conditions and local wildlife (i.e., alligators, bears, insects, snakes, spiders and scorpions) were added.

The new wellsite environmental protection module addresses waste management and wellsite environmental issues such as leaks, spills and releases.

The new optional land endorsement module is designed for new-hires working onshore and will provide insights to issues unique to that environment. Examples include trenching and shoring, plus onshore environmental issues.

The current RigPass curriculum was first implemented in 2004 and contains 10 core safety modules, plus an optional offshore endorsement module that remains unchanged.

A copy of the new curriculum can be found on IADC’s website.

For more information about the RigPass program and changes, contact Brenda Kelly at Brenda Kelly.