Oilfield Electrical Systems Certificate
Earn your certificate in foundational oilfield electrical skills through our hands-on 5-hour class, online supplements, and practical tests.
Certificate Overview
This certificate provides an introduction to electrical systems in oilfield environments, focusing on safe and efficient installation practices. You’ll learn essential concepts for power distribution, wiring, and infrastructure setup in hazardous and corrosive settings. Upon completion, you’ll receive a digital certificate verifiable for job applications in oil/gas industries.
5-Hour Class Details
The in-person or virtual 5-hour class is structured for maximum hands-on learning, divided into theory (1 hour), demonstrations (2 hours), and practice (2 hours). Classes are held in rural hotspots like Williston, ND, or Bakersfield, CA, or online if no local session is available.
What You’ll Learn
- Overview of oilfield power distribution layout, including system design and component integration.
- Wiring methods such as MC-HL (Metal-Clad Hazardous Locations), TC-ER-HL (Tray Cable-Exposed Run-Hazardous Locations), and rigid conduit for safe routing in explosive atmospheres.
- Grounding techniques in corrosive environments (e.g., saltwater, H2S exposure) to prevent faults and ensure longevity.
- Hazardous area classifications (Class I/II/III, Divisions 1/2) per NEC Article 500, with identification and compliance strategies.
- Instrument mounting for sensors, transmitters, and controllers in oilfield equipment like pumps and separators.
- Putting together UniStrut supports, cable trays, and basket trays for structural cable management.
Hands-On Tasks
- Install UniStrut supports for cable trays or instrument mounting.
- Perform grounding checks using a multimeter to verify continuity and resistance.
Skills Taught
- System layout planning for efficient and compliant oilfield installations.
- NEC compliance specifically for hazardous locations, including code interpretation and application.
Tools Used
- Multimeters for electrical testing and grounding verification.
- Grounding clamps for secure connections in corrosive setups.
- UniStrut cutters (e.g., hacksaws or chop saws) for precise framing cuts.
Safety Aspects
- Area classification verification to identify hazards before work begins.
- PPE requirements for corrosive sites, including chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and respirators for H2S exposure.
- Lockout/tagout procedures and arc flash awareness per NFPA 70E.
Learning Objectives
- Understand and setup basic oilfield electrical infrastructure, from distribution to instrumentation.
- Apply safe wiring and grounding practices in hazardous/corrosive environments.
- Comply with NEC standards for oilfield installations to ensure reliability and safety.
Online Supplement
Access our self-paced online module (2-3 hours) as a pre-class prep or standalone option if no in-person session is available. It includes videos, interactive quizzes, and virtual simulations. Subscribers can request a $50 home kit with multimeters, grounding clamps, UniStrut samples, wire strippers, and sample cables/conduits for practice.
- Video tutorials on hazardous area classifications and NEC basics.
- Virtual simulations for wiring methods (e.g., drag-and-drop conduit bending and cable routing).
- Quizzes on safety aspects and learning objectives, with feedback from online coaches.
- Downloadable resources: NEC excerpts, tool guides, and system layout templates.
Complete the supplement to unlock a digital badge and prepare for the physical task test.
Physical Task Test
To earn your certificate, complete this practical assessment during or after the class. It includes at least three individual tasks (evaluated on accuracy, safety, and efficiency) and one group task (focusing on collaboration and problem-solving). Tests are proctored in-person or via video submission for remote learners.
Individual Task 1: Grounding Check in Corrosive Environment
Set up a simulated grounding system for an oilfield panel in a corrosive setup. Use a multimeter to verify continuity and resistance, ensuring values meet NEC standards (e.g., <25 ohms). Document findings and apply PPE correctly.
Evaluation Criteria: Accuracy of measurements, proper tool use, safety compliance.
Individual Task 2: UniStrut Support Installation
Measure, cut, and assemble UniStrut supports for a cable tray section. Install it securely, incorporating wiring methods like rigid conduit or MC-HL cable routing.
Evaluation Criteria: Precision in cutting/assembly, structural stability, adherence to layout plans.
Individual Task 3: Hazardous Area Classification Verification
Review a mock oilfield site diagram, identify hazardous zones (e.g., Class I Div 1), and select appropriate wiring methods/instrument mounting. Justify choices based on NEC Article 500.
Evaluation Criteria: Correct classification, rationale, safety recommendations.
Group Task: Oilfield Power Distribution Layout Simulation
In teams of 3-5, design and assemble a small-scale power distribution layout for a well site, including grounding, cable trays, and instrument mounting. Present the setup, explaining safety aspects and compliance.
Evaluation Criteria: Team collaboration, integrated system functionality, group presentation on objectives.
Pass the test with 80% proficiency to receive your certificate. Retakes available with coach feedback.