Despite the diversity in industrial facilities with respect to size, processes, complexity, and equipment, there are common skills and knowledge sets applicable to all industries that must be mastered for successful job performance in operations and maintenance. The topics focus on the entry-level skills and knowledge, presented within an industrial context, necessary to achieve the requisite competency for further specialization.
Overview of Industrial Facility Systems
This introductory module provides an overview of industrial-scale systems, including electrical, water, and HVAC, as well as industrial standards and units of measure. These systems are used to provide examples and practical applications of the content presented in each subsequent subject area.
Safety
The modules in the Safety subject area begin by providing an overview common industrial facility hazards and protective systems, including the areas of a facility where these hazards may be encountered. These modules also introduce fire and electrical safety practices, as well as discuss topics such as hazardous communications, lockout/tagout, industrial signage, and personal protective equipment.
Mathematics
Mathematics is one of the oldest and most fundamental sciences and is used in all aspects of modern industry in some form or another. The modules in this subject area range from basic calculations using whole numbers and fractions to problem solving and analysis using algebra and trigonometry. A working knowledge of mathematics not only improves the general efficiency of day-to-day tasks and operations, but also positively affects the economic stability of the organization.
Tools
Understanding the proper uses and safety requirements for hand and power tools is essential for technicians and workers in all industrial fields. The modules in this subject area provide participants with an overview of the most common types of tools used in industry as well their functions, applications, and requirements for safe operation. Acquiring a working knowledge of these tools not only facilitates a more productive work environment but reinforces safety issues, as well.
Maintenance
The modules in the Maintenance subject area discuss the importance of preventive maintenance, predictive maintenance, and troubleshooting practices, as well as how they aid in prolonging the life and increasing the reliability of equipment, instrumentation, and general facilities. These modules provide an overview of the advantages and benefits of each type of maintenance, including best practices, tools and techniques, and useful resources.
Environment
The modules in the Environment subject area provide a detailed overview of the impact of different environmental issues on industry, including the pollutants and hazardous materials commonly found in plant environments. These modules also introduce environmental, health, and safety regulations established by law through agencies such as OSHA and the EPA. Additionally, this area discusses ways to minimize pollution, as well as the proper safety precautions to follow when handling hazardous materials.
Computers
This subject area provides an overview of basic computer concepts and the use of computers for industrial applications. The topics covered in this module include basic computer components, file management and naming conventions, and networking concepts. These modules also introduce residential and industrial computer systems, equipment control and monitoring systems, and portable peripheral devices, including both those that interface with equipment or a process and those that are used for recording information.
Print Reading
The use of prints is the most efficient way to convey information about systems and equipment that cannot be expressed by words alone. By using symbols and notes, a large amount of information that might require many pages of written description can be presented in a condensed form on one diagram. Within the topics in this module, participants learn how to identify the different types of mechanical and electrical drawings, as well as how to read the symbols and other information contained within them.
Science
The Science subject area introduces fundamental concepts of science and how they apply to plant operation and maintenance. The modules begin with a discussion of basic chemistry and water chemistry, including descriptions of the different parameters monitored within industrial systems and applications. This subject area goes on to provide a detailed overview of applied physics, including topics such as laws of motion, work, energy, and power, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, ideal gas law, and thermodynamics.