The first Regulation Navigation webinar of 2023 covered changes to the Final Rule that impact transmission pipeline safety.
If you missed the session or would like a recap, read on for our top 5 takeaways.
The Final Rule gives very prescriptive repair criteria for external corrosion and interference current issues.
Remediation timelines for external and internal corrosion are clearly defined, and any plans or permits for that remediation must be developed and applied for within 6 months of discovering an issue.
Defining close interval survey and transmission pipeline clarifies the updated regulations.
Federal regulations provide definitions to ensure everyone working on transmission pipelines has a base understanding of processes and industry specific phrases and terms. Other newly defined terms include:
- Distribution center
- Dry gas
- Hard spot
- In-line inspection
- In-line inspection tools
- Wrinkle bend
Transmission operators must perform a baseline assessment within 6 months for new pipeline installations with 1,000 feet or more in a ditch.
The baseline assessment applies to new construction and is focused on assessing for coating damage. If any damage is found, it must be repaired.
The Final Rule defines how to use direct assessment for internal corrosion and stress corrosion cracking, influenced by NACE standards.
The NACE standards are being incorporated by reference into the Final Rule and apply to direct inspection for internal corrosion and stress corrosion cracking.
Transmission operators must develop and implement a management of change process for any significant change that could put safety or the environment at risk.
Except for transmission pipelines covered in Subpart O, operators must have management of change processes in place by February 26, 2024. Operators can request an extension for up to one year.
If you have questions or concerns about the Final Rule or are interested in learning more about our range of regulatory consulting services, please contact ITS Regulatory Compliance Specialist Warren Miller to learn more about how we can help you meet your compliance needs.