TRAIN YOUR TEAM

Our instructors are experts and are knowledgeable in identifying what you need to learn and how to assist you in achieving your goals.

Our instructors possess an understanding of the requirements of propane business owners in regards to the type of employees they seek and the propane customers they serve. You won’t find yourself adrift in a vast classroom setting, as personal attention is given to each student.

SEPATEC provides training courses for individuals who are interested in the propane industry. The CETP course is specifically designed to help you obtain the certification that will enable you to start or advance in your propane career. Additionally, our individual courses offer the opportunity to refine your skills and provide the necessary knowledge to progress in your profession.

Whether you enroll in the complete CETP course or opt for individual courses, you will receive training from propane industry experts located in the southeastern region. These professionals possess a deep understanding of what you need to learn and how to help you achieve your objectives. They are also well-versed in the requirements of propane business owners when it comes to hiring employees and serving propane customers.

What are the locations where the classes are held?

Classes are primarily held at SEPATEC located at 2260 Long Dairy Road, Graham, NC 27253. If you are interested in custom training opportunities at the schoolhouse or onsite at your business, please contact John Peña at 919-364-3003 or by email at jpena@sepatec.org.

What topics are covered in the 1.0 Basic Principles and Practices of Propane course?

The 1.0 Basic Principles and Practices of Propane course is an essential introduction for those new to the field, offering a broad overview of important concepts and practical knowledge.

Here’s a breakdown of the key topics you’ll explore:

Propane’s Physical and Combustion Properties:

Gain an understanding of what makes propane effective as a fuel, including its characteristics and behavior during combustion.

Production and Transportation:

Learn the processes involved in producing propane and how it is safely transported to various destinations.

Regulatory Bodies and Standards:

Discover the organizations that create, publish, and enforce codes and standards relevant to propane handling and usage.

Bulk Plant Operations:

Familiarize yourself with everyday operations at bulk plants, focusing on safety practices and customer service essentials.

Safety and Service Considerations:

Delve into important safety topics such as odorants used in propane, managing service interruptions, and understanding combustion—both complete and incomplete.

What topics are covered in the 2.2 Bobtail Delivery Operations course?

The 2.2 Bobtail Delivery Operations course is designed to equip drivers with essential knowledge for operating commercial vehicles in propane delivery. Here’s a breakdown of the key topics covered:

Understanding Bobtail Equipment:

Drivers will learn about the various components that make up a bobtail, including the cargo tank, gauges, valves, pumps, and meters.

Delivery Systems and Safety Procedures:

Detailed instructions are provided for safely handling and operating delivery hoses and emergency discharge control equipment.

Loading Procedures:

The course outlines step-by-step methods for loading a bobtail using a plant pump, emphasizing safety and efficiency.

Regulatory Compliance:

Discussions include DOT inspection requirements critical for ensuring that bobtail operations meet safety standards.

Installation Requirements:

Participants will review the features of ASME tanks and how they must be correctly installed at customer sites.

What topics are covered in the 2.4 Cylinder Delivery Operations course?

The 2.4 Cylinder Delivery Operations course is specifically tailored for drivers who operate cylinder delivery vehicles in the propane industry. Participants will gain valuable knowledge and skills across a range of essential topics, including:

DOT Licensing and Driving Requirements:

Get familiar with the Department of Transportation regulations, focusing on what’s required for licensing and safe driving of commercial vehicles.

Commercial Motor Vehicle Guidelines:

Learn the specific restrictions and conditions faced by CMV drivers delivering propane, ensuring adherence to safety standards.

Vehicle Inspection and Documentation:

Understand how to perform thorough vehicle inspections and accurately manage identification and documentation during deliveries.

Handling Hazardous Materials:

Master the safe handling of hazardous substances, including various flammable and combustible liquids, while implementing crucial safety measures.

Defensive Driving and Emergency Management:

Develop skills to drive defensively and effectively manage accidents and emergencies on the road.

Vehicle Parking, Servicing, and Security:

Discover best practices for parking and servicing delivery vehicles, along with strategies for maintaining vehicle security.

Cylinder Preparation and Filling:

Learn the proper procedures for preparing, filling, and delivering propane cylinders to ensure efficiency and safety.

By covering these areas, the course equips propane delivery personnel with the necessary tools and knowledge to perform their duties safely and effectively.

What topics are covered in the 3.1 Plant Operations course?

The 3.1 Plant Operations course is designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge related to plant operations. Key topics covered include:

Cylinder and Tank Handling:

Training for inspecting and filling DOT (Department of Transportation) cylinders and ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) tanks at bulk plants.

Cylinder Requalification:

In-depth instruction on the requalification process for DOT cylinders to ensure safety and compliance.

Equipment Maintenance:

Best practices for maintaining cylinders, tanks, and other equipment within the bulk plant, ensuring operational efficiency and safety.

General Plant Procedures:

A broad overview of procedures that support various tasks within general plant operations, benefiting roles such as plant managers and office personnel.

This course is ideal not only for employees performing these hands-on tasks but also for other propane industry professionals looking to enhance their understanding of plant operations.

What topics are covered in the 4.1 Designing and Installing Exterior Vapor Distribution Systems course?

The 4.1 Designing and Installing Exterior Vapor Distribution Systems course is comprehensive, catering to both residential and small commercial applications. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll learn:

Design and Installation of Containers:

Learn how to choose the right containers for vapor distribution and properly install them to meet safety and efficiency standards.

Preventing Corrosion:

Understand the best practices to prevent corrosion in vapor distribution components, ensuring long-lasting system integrity.

Sizing and Installing Regulators and Meters:

Master the techniques to appropriately size and install regulators and meters, which are critical for maintaining system stability and functionality.

Outdoor Piping and Tubing:

Get hands-on experience with selecting and installing outdoor piping and tubing, tailored to diverse environmental conditions and regulatory requirements.

In addition to these core topics, the course also delves into:

System Design:

Methodologies for designing both container and line configurations in vapor systems.

Regulatory Compliance:

Guidelines on adhering to relevant safety and installation standards.

System Preparation and Transport:

Techniques for preparing components for transport to and within various installation sites.

System Testing and Safety Practices:

Essential tests and safety protocols to ensure system reliability and user safety.

This curriculum equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to execute exterior vapor distribution projects confidently and proficiently.

What topics are covered in the 4.2 Placing Vapor Distribution Systems and Appliances into Operation course?

The 4.2 Placing Vapor Distribution Systems and Appliances into Operation course is an intensive educational program designed to equip participants with comprehensive knowledge and skills related to vapor distribution systems.

System Testing:

Learn about the essential tests required for ensuring the functionality and safety of vapor distribution systems and appliances. This includes understanding how to validate each component effectively.

Validation Process:

Gain insight into the procedures for ensuring the integrity of the vapor container, piping, and regulator. This step is crucial for the systematic setup of the distribution system.

Final Connections:

Discover the timing and methods for making the final connections in the system. Proper connections are vital for the safe operation of the entire setup.

Purging of Air:

Understand the process of purging air from the system to maintain safety and efficiency. This module ensures participants can perform this task with confidence.

Appliance Controls and Safety Devices:

Explore the operational checks and balances involved with appliance controls and safety mechanisms. Knowing how to test and adjust these devices is essential for preventing accidents.

Burner Adjustment:

Learn the techniques for adjusting burners to ensure optimal performance and safety. This includes understanding how to monitor and modify the burner’s operation for efficiency.

Designed for those responsible for setting up and operating vapor distribution systems, this course provides a thorough grounding in essential procedures and safety protocols.

What topics are covered in the 5.1 Designing and Installing Dispenser Transfer Systems course?

Are you ready to dive into the essentials of propane dispenser operation and installation? This course is your gateway to mastering the critical skills needed in the propane industry. Here’s what you’ll learn:

Dispenser Components:

Gain a thorough understanding of tank valves, fittings, and their specific locations within the system.

System Procedures:

Learn the complete process of installing, starting up, and shutting down dispenser transfer systems.

Hands-On Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Propane Pumps:

Acquire the techniques to maintain and troubleshoot crucial pump systems.

Propane Compressors:

Develop skills to effectively inspect and resolve compressor issues.

Liquid Meters:

Understand how to inspect and maintain these devices for accurate measurements.

Operational Maintenance

Valves and Flow Monitors:

Learn how to properly maintain valves and ensure flow monitors function correctly.

Transfer Systems:

Get hands-on experience inspecting and maintaining liquid transfer systems, ensuring they’re in top condition for safe operation.

Whether you’re new to the field or looking to enhance your existing skills, this course offers valuable insights and practical knowledge pivotal for anyone aiming to excel in the propane industry.

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If you’re interested in launching a successful career in the propane industry, SEPATEC invites you to take a closer look at our courses. Explore the website to learn more about courses, financial assistance, job placement, housing information, staff and instructors, and why SEPATEC is right for you.

Contact Us today to sign up and take the first steps toward your rewarding new career in propane!

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