MAIN FUNCTIONS
Supervise nitrogen purging activities for pipelines, vessels, tanks, process equipment, and process systems.
Plan and coordinate nitrogen purging operations in accordance with approved procedures and work schedules.
Verify system boundaries, isolation points, vents, drains, and nitrogen injection points before commencing work.
Ensure nitrogen purging is performed safely and within approved pressure, flow, and concentration limits.
Monitor oxygen levels and other relevant atmospheric conditions during purging.
Supervise nitrogen supply, pressure regulation, hoses, manifolds, regulators, and associated equipment.
Coordinate with operations, mechanical, commissioning, maintenance, QA/QC, and HSE personnel.
Maintain continuous supervision during 24-hour operations and ensure effective shift handovers.
Monitor operational parameters and respond promptly to abnormal conditions.
Ensure all purging activities comply with approved procedures, PTW requirements, and HSE standards.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Review
P&IDs, line lists, isolation plans, nitrogen purge procedures, and test packages
before work begins.
Develop or review purge sequences and ensure correct connection of nitrogen supply equipment.
Confirm that all personnel understand the purge procedure, hazards, and emergency arrangements.
Monitor oxygen concentration using calibrated gas-detection equipment.
Control nitrogen injection pressure and flow to prevent equipment damage or unsafe conditions.
Establish and maintain exclusion zones around nitrogen discharge and vent locations.
Ensure adequate ventilation and warning signs are provided in affected areas.
Monitor for
oxygen-deficient atmospheres
, especially in enclosed, confined, or poorly ventilated locations.
Coordinate safe venting and discharge of nitrogen and displaced gases.
Maintain accurate records of purge pressures, flow rates, oxygen readings, duration, and system status.
Coordinate shift changes and provide clear handover information for continuous operations.
Report leaks, equipment failures, abnormal readings, incidents, and unsafe conditions.
Ensure nitrogen cylinders, tanks, vaporizers, manifolds, hoses, and other equipment are properly inspected and fit for service.
Coordinate final verification and reinstatement of systems after successful purging.
Prepare daily operational reports and completion documentation.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENC
E
HND, OND, or technical qualification in
Mechanical Engineering, Process Operations, Plant Operations, or a related discipline
.
Significant experience in
nitrogen purging, commissioning, plant operations, shutdowns, maintenance, or process equipment services
within the oil & gas industry.
Practical knowledge of
nitrogen purging and inerting operations
.
Understanding of pipelines, pressure vessels, tanks, process piping, valves, and process systems.
Experience supervising field technicians and contractors.
Good knowledge of
Permit to Work (PTW), JSA/JHA, LOTO, confined-space safety, gas testing, and emergency response
.
Ability to interpret
P&IDs, line diagrams, isolation plans, and operating procedures
.
Strong understanding of the hazards associated with
oxygen deficiency, high-pressure nitrogen, and displaced hydrocarbons
.
Strong leadership, communication, shift coordination, and reporting skills.
Ability to work on a
24-hour shift basis
in onshore, offshore, refinery, petrochemical, or other oil & gas facilities.