Importance of Testing Operator Knowledge

Objectively assessing operator knowledge and skills is important. The Center for Operator Performance developed a validated 47-question test on distillation knowledge administered across multiple companies. The test revealed variations in knowledge between companies and individuals, helping identify areas for improvement. The goal is to create more tests on different topics. Key findings include:

1. Simulation-based training correlated with better performance
2. Years of experience didn't necessarily predict test scores
3. The test can be used to benchmark and improve training programs