COURSE OVERVIEW:

The integrity of loading and unloading systems is paramount for the safe transfer of hazardous fluids between marine vessels, tank trucks, railcars, and storage facilities. This course provides a comprehensive technical examination of the mechanical and operational requirements for marine loading arms, flexible hoses, and associated transfer piping. Participants will explore the unique stress profiles and degradation mechanisms associated with these dynamic assets, which are frequently subjected to cyclic loading, environmental exposure, and the mechanical wear of repetitive connection and disconnection cycles.

The scope of this training involves a detailed analysis of the primary containment boundaries and the critical safety interfaces of transfer systems. Coverage includes the structural mechanics of articulating loading arms, the material science of composite and metallic hoses, and the integrity of emergency release systems (ERS). The course emphasizes the importance of rigorous inspection and testing regimes to prevent catastrophic spills that could result in environmental damage, fire, or significant loss of life. Attendees will learn how to identify early warning signs of fatigue, internal liner failure, and the degradation of swivel joints and seals.

Detailed coverage is provided on the application of international standards, including OCIMF guidelines for marine transfers and relevant ISO/EN standards for industrial hoses. The program explores the development of risk-based inspection plans specifically for transfer equipment, the evaluation of "fitness-for-service" for hoses in aggressive chemical service, and the technical requirements for hydrostatic and vacuum testing. By analyzing real-world failure incidents at loading terminals, participants will develop the skills necessary to implement a robust integrity assurance program that balances operational efficiency with the highest standards of containment reliability.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Identify the critical components and operating principles of marine and land-based loading systems.
• Categorize the unique degradation mechanisms affecting flexible transfer hoses and articulated arms.
• Execute visual and physical inspection protocols for loading arms and swivel joint assemblies.
• Determine the retirement criteria for flexible hoses based on wear, age, and service history.
• Evaluate the functionality and integrity of Emergency Release Couplings (ERC) and breakaway systems.
• Apply OCIMF and industry best practices for the management of marine transfer infrastructure.
• Design a comprehensive hydrostatic and electrical continuity testing program for transfer lines.
• Analyze the impact of surge pressures and water hammer on the integrity of loading systems.
• Implement effective maintenance strategies for hydraulic and pneumatic control systems of loading arms.
• Recognize the symptoms of internal liner collapse or reinforcement fatigue in composite hoses.
• Develop a traceability and documentation system for the tracking of hose service lives.
• Coordinate emergency response planning for loss-of-containment scenarios during transfer operations.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is specifically designed for Terminal Operations Managers, Jetty Supervisors, Maintenance Engineers, Inspection Technicians, and Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Professionals. It is also highly valuable for Marine Surveyors and Reliability Engineers responsible for the upkeep of fluid transfer assets in oil refineries, chemical plants, and offshore loading facilities.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.