PHMSA Designated Employer Representative (DER) Training

Protecting Critical Infrastructure Through Compliance

Pipeline operators and hazardous materials employers are entrusted with protecting critical infrastructure, public safety, and the environment. The PHMSA DER Training Course provides the specialized knowledge required to administer drug and alcohol testing programs for safety-sensitive employees covered under 49 CFR Part 199.

This course is designed for natural gas transmission operators, hazardous liquid pipeline operators, utility companies, contractors, and compliance professionals responsible for maintaining PHMSA compliance.

Participants will learn how to oversee testing programs for pipeline controllers, maintenance personnel, emergency response employees, and other covered workers. The course covers pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, return-to-duty, and follow-up testing requirements while emphasizing incident prevention and regulatory accountability.

Key topics include:

* PHMSA drug and alcohol testing requirements

* Covered employee determinations

* Pipeline safety compliance responsibilities

* Incident and accident response procedures

* Testing program administration

* Recordkeeping and confidentiality requirements

* Managing violations and employee removals

* Return-to-duty procedures

* Contractor oversight considerations

* Preparing for PHMSA inspections and audits

Upon completion, DERs will possess the knowledge necessary to manage compliant testing programs that support safe pipeline operations, reduce regulatory risk, and protect critical energy and hazardous materials infrastructure.