Challenge
The American Petroleum Institute introduced API RP 1173, Pipeline Safety Management Systems (PSMS), setting out a framework for pipeline operators to demonstrate safe working practices across the full pipeline lifecycle.The client operates and maintains more than 6,750 miles of gas transmission pipelines and 40,000 miles of distribution pipeline across northern and central California, covering nearly 50% of the state. Given the scale of their operations, regulatory and safety exposure was significant. The client required an independent assessment of its gas operations against API RP 1173, including a detailed review of the Gas Transmission Integrity Management Programme (TIMP) and Gas Distribution Integrity Management Programme (DIMP), as required by US federal regulations.
Solution
The client commissioned Lloyd’s Register (LR) Advisory to carry out an independent gap analysis and compliance assessment of how its existing pipeline safety management arrangements aligned with the requirements of API RP 1173. The scope focused on the client’s gas operations and included reviews of the TIMP and DIMP programmes.
Approach taken
LR Advisory carried out the assessment drawing on existing management system documentation and prior audit material, allowing the review to focus on pipeline integrity and safety management arrangements relevant to gas operations. The team examined how pipeline integrity information is managed, including the use of in-line inspection and direct assessment results, the information held on pipeline assets and the processes used to keep that information current
Key activities & outputs
- Reviewed the client’s pipeline safety management procedures and processes
- Reviewed how results from in line inspections and direct assessments are used
- Reviewed pipeline information covering materials, coatings, pipe wall thickness, welds and maintenance data
- Examined how pipeline information is managed and maintained over time
- Delivered an independent assessment against API RP 1173 requirements
Key client benefits
- Confirmation of alignment with API RP 1173 requirements
- A clear framework supporting pipeline and asset management activities
- Independent input supporting the client’s objective of achieving world-class safety
Project outcome
No major non-conformances were identified across the client’s pipeline network, and the assessment confirmed that their PSMS met the requirements of the standard. LR Advisory’s assessment gave greater confidence in the client’s TIMP and DIMP programmes and in the way pipeline safety is managed more broadly.
The assessment also highlighted several initiatives that have strengthened pipeline safety management, including completion of centre-line surveys across the transmission network, introduction of a transmission Geographical Information System (GIS) to bring asset information together and commissioning of a new gas control room. LR Advisory also identified areas where further improvement could be focused.
Conclusion
LR Advisory’s independent assessment confirmed that the client’s PSMS meets the requirements of API RP 1173. The work validated existing integrity management practices and provided clear input to support ongoing improvement.
Other applications
The assessment approach can be applied to other pipeline systems operating under similar regulatory and integrity management requirements.
