Alabama Pipeline Emergency Response Initiative

The Alabama Pipeline Emergency Response Initiative (APERI) is a cooperative effort between the Alabama Fire College and the Pipeline Operators in the State. APERI is the only organization in the State that provides first responders emergency pipeline response training for large diameter gas and liquid transmission lines and local distribution systems.

The four-hour class covers two very important topics: how do you know you have a problem with a distribution line or a large diameter pipeline and what do you do about it. More importantly, learn what not to do during an incident. During the course everyone will get a chance to ask questions and hear from the pipeline operator(s) from their specific area. The pipeline operators attending the course cover specific locations of the lines, diameter of pipes, quantity and type of product moved and other transmission line specifics. Other topics included are information on right-of-ways (ROW), transmission line components, pipeline construction and design, contacting pipeline operators, and other system specifics. We cover a step-by-step process that gives you guidance on how to mitigate the incident, and things your department needs to know to handle a pipeline emergency. Finally, the course ends with a scenario, created in your response area, that simulates a response to a pipeline incident in which the students takes command to solve a pipeline incident.

This class is for all first responders including law enforcement, fire, emergency management, emergency medical services, city employees, and anyone else who may respond to a pipeline emergency. Mutual Aid Agencies are strongly encouraged to attend. There is no cost for this class and the limit of attending personnel depends on available space of the host department. It is recommended classes are scheduled 45-60 days in advance. All attending will receive an Alabama Fire College “Non-Cert” certificate for Hazmat continuing education training.