Scope

Instrumentation and control technicians work on measuring and controlling instrumentation. They also service plant process control, monitoring, safety and communications systems. They are knowledgeable in overall plant systems and interactions of processes.

Some of the duties of instrumentation and control technicians are:

• consulting diagrams and technical documentation such as schematics, manuals, standards and codes;
• maintaining backup and revision documentation for control systems and instrumentation;
• installing, configuring, calibrating and maintaining control, measurement and indicating instrumentation (pneumatic, analog & digital);
• configuring and programming Programmable Logic Controls (PLC) and Programmable Automation Controllers (PAC);
• installing and terminating electrical, pneumatic and fluid connections;
• inspecting and testing the operation of instruments and systems to diagnose faults;
• removing, repairing, adjusting and replacing components;
• calibrating components and systems;
• assisting engineering in plant design, modification and hazard analysis;
• maintaining various computer-based control systems;
• performing scheduled maintenance programs; and,
• keeping up-to-date with advances in technology in industry and the trade.

Some of the instruments include transmitters, analyzers, sensors, detectors, signal conditioners, recorders, controllers and final control elements. They are used in industry to measure and control variables such as pressure, flow, temperature, level, motion, force and chemical composition.

Instrumentation and control technicians work in various industrial sectors. They may be employed by pulp and paper processing companies, nuclear, thermal and hydro power generating companies, mining, petrochemical, oil and gas companies, steel companies, water treatment facilities, manufacturing companies and industrial instrument servicing establishments.

Instrumentation and control technicians may work in hazardous environments where they may be exposed to confined spaces, heights, noise, dust, cold and heat. There may also be risks working with chemicals, gases, radiation, laser equipment and substances under pressure.

Key attributes for people entering this trade are manual dexterity, ability to pay attention to detail, strong problem solving and communication skills, and mathematical and scientific aptitude.

Instrumentation and control technicians interact with other tradespersons and professionals such as process operators, steamfitters/pipefitters, welders, industrial mechanics (millwrights), electricians and engineers.

With experience, they act as mentors and trainers to apprentices in the trade. They could also move into supervisory, design, advanced control, training or sales positions.

Observations

The computer is increasingly being used for diagnostics, calibration, programming, service and documentation. The use of computerized equipment has raised the level of troubleshooting (diagnosis and repair) ability required by the technician. This has an impact on the education and training required for the trade. Smart devices such as transmitters, valve positioners and variable frequency drives (VFDs) as well as various control systems such as Distributed Control System (DCS) and PLC have had an impact on the education and training required by the trade.

There is an increased use of wireless communication. Fibre optics and computer-based controls such as foundation Fieldbus and HART are implemented everywhere. These controls network the equipment, facilitate communication and reduce material and labour costs.

Industry is increasingly adopting Safety Integrity Level (SIL) analysis as an extension of Hazard and Operability Studies (HAZOPS) for new plant design. This is already becoming a more prevalent best engineering practice in Europe and the United States of America, and in the Canadian offshore. SIL analysis (within a Safety Instrumented System - SIS) is starting to be used in new plant design for onshore Canadian industrial process plants, particularly in oil and gas and petrochemical facilities.

There is an industry trend towards better environmental monitoring such as continuous emission monitoring systems, water treatment and legislation.

There is an increased emphasis in overall plant efficiency and quality control using predictive and preventative maintenance programs. Complexity of equipment and changing technologies are resulting in more specialized training and abilities.

Safety

Safe working procedures and conditions, accident prevention, and the preservation of health are of primary importance to industry in Canada. These responsibilities are shared and require the joint efforts of government, employers and employees. It is imperative that all parties become aware of circumstances that may lead to injury or harm. Safe learning experiences and work environments can be created by controlling the variables and behaviours that may contribute to accidents or injury.

It is generally recognized that safety-conscious attitudes and work practices contribute to a healthy, safe and accident-free work environment.

It is imperative to apply and be familiar with the Occupational Health and Safety Acts and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Regulations. As well, it is essential to determine workplace hazards and take measures to protect oneself, co-workers, the public and the environment.

Safety education is an integral part of training in all jurisdictions. As safety is an imperative part of all trades, it is assumed and therefore it is not included as a qualifier of any activities. However, the technical safety tasks and sub-tasks specific to the trade are included in this analysis.

Job Titles