Page 55 - Pipeline Pigging Technology

Pipeline Pigging Technology

MAJOR PIPELINE SAFETY ISSUES

1. The areas of concern continue, as in recent years, to include the
following:
The evaluation of the condition and integrity of existing pipeline systems
continues to be a major concern. As mentioned earlier, the pressure will
continue on the OPS and industry to develop and use better methods and
materials to ensure the integrity of older pipeline systems.
The internal inspection (pigging) industry is establishing itself as a unified
body that can speak with authority.
2. Pipeline rehabilitation: The pipeline and service industries are teaming
up to do research and develop procedures and techniques to be used in the
rehabilitation of existing pipeline systems. The mileage of rehabilitation work
planned or underway has increased dramatically over the past year.
3. Underwater pipelines and offshore operations: The passage of HR 4888
regarding the inspection of certain offshore pipelines just scratches the
surface on requirements for underwater pipelines. The Congress will con-
tinue to push these requirements for all underwater pipelines. The inspection
and survey industries will have to develop new technology and techniques to
locate and determine the cover condition of these systems. The entire area of
offshore pipeline operation and maintenance is undergoing a thorough
review.
4. Handling of emergencies'. This subject continues to be of high interest.
We will see continued effort on requiring training of pipeline operators,
providing equipment to detect, locate and shut down systems. Also, emphasis
will be stressed on valving design and maintenance.

CONCLUSION

As you can see, the challenges of pipeline safety continue. During this
year's legislative and regulatory activities there will be substantial opportu-
nity for the pipeline and related industries to provide input to the process.
With the nation's natural gas and hazardous liquid pipeline systems growing
older each day, innovative techniques and equipment are going to have be put
into use. This will require the efforts of each of us, and hopefully reward all
of us.
Let's strive to make regulations that solve problems, not compound
existing problems or create new problems.

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