Training in the use of electrical heat tracing "a course outline"

Although many aspects of electrical heat tracing have been the subjects of technical presentations, the important area of training has not. With increasing emphasis on training to improve overall efficiencies and plant safety, the need for this paper is amplified by fading field expertise caused by staff reductions and retirements. In today's petrochemical, refining and processing plants, electrical heat tracing is commonly found in hazardous (classified) locations. Because it is attached to in-line valves, pumps and other equipment that is regularly maintained, it can be exposed to greater physical abuse than other pieces of electrical equipment. This paper is intended to be a basic primer for establishing a training program to identify the concepts and considerations necessary to ensure safe and effective electric heat tracing systems.