Training at ARKUPS
At ARKUPS, our primary objective is to equip each DPS with the highest level of expertise, ensuring they become the most qualified and proficient locators in the industry.
The Damage Prevention Specialist (DPS) role is vital to the success of ARKUPS, and their ongoing training and development are paramount. ARKUPS is committed to providing a best-in-class training system and abundant resources to meet its employees' evolving training and development needs.
The training program at ARKUPS is comprehensive and encompasses a wide range of underground facilities. This includes gas pipelines, water systems, sewer lines, electric cables, phone lines, fiber optic networks, and more. The training program emphasizes the importance of preventing damage and injury associated with these underground facilities.
By equipping every DPS with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and mitigate potential risks, ARKUPS ensures its employees are well-prepared to carry out their responsibilities effectively. The focus on damage and injury prevention underscores ARKUPS' commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence in the industry.
- Mentorship
- We prioritize the professional development of our newly hired DPS through a comprehensive mentorship and training program. The mentorship program offers invaluable opportunities for DPS to learn from seasoned locators and gain practical field experience. Following the mentorship, DPS enters a detailed training program consisting of two distinct phases.
- Phase 1: Class Time
- During this phase, the DPS will undergo an accelerated 80-hour in-class training program designed to cultivate their skills and knowledge in utility locating. The program is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles, techniques, and best practices involved in effective utility locating.
- In addition to the core training, the DPS will also receive comprehensive instruction on our advanced ticket management system, DigTix. This training enables them to navigate the system seamlessly and efficiently, optimizing their workflow and ensuring accurate and timely responses to locating requests. By mastering DigTix, DPS are equipped with the necessary tools to effectively manage and prioritize locating tasks, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
- Phase 2: In Field Training
- Upon successful completion of the in-class training, the DPS will progress to Phase 2, which entails a minimum of two weeks of immersive in-field training. In Phase 2 of the training program, DPS have the opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge they acquired during Phase 1 in a practical and hands-on manner. This phase is focused on providing extensive hands-on training to further develop their knowledge of utility
- Certification
- Upon completion of each phase of the training program, DPS is awarded a certificate of completion from the ARKUPS Training Program. Additionally, they achieve certification in gas pipeline locating, including the prestigious 1291 certification, completion of 9 EwebOQ CBT courses, and D.O.T. certification. These certifications validate their expertise and proficiency in the field.
- Continued Education
- To remain competitive in the dynamic underground utility locating industry, DPS is required to engage in ongoing professional development through the ARKUPS Continuing Education (CE) program. This program mandates DPS to continuously enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities. By actively participating in continued education, DPS stays up to date with the latest industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices. This commitment ensures that they consistently maintain and elevate their professional competence as esteemed locators at ARKUPS.
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