Potential for Damage to Pipeline Facilities Caused by Earth Movement and Other Geological Hazards

Advisory Bulletin Summary

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued and an Advisory Bulletin regarding geological hazards to pipelines. This Advisory Bulletin is in response to several recent events, which are detailed in the document.

WHO?

The Advisory Bulletin applies to operators of natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines, including supercritical carbon dioxide pipelines.

WHAT AND WHERE?

Monitor for geologic threats such as steep, rugged, or varied terrain with possible changing subsurface conditions. This includes consideration for changing weather patterns caused by climate change such as heavier rain events and higher temperatures and how those changes can impact geologic conditions.

HOW?

The Advisory Bulletin discusses several potential actions to ensure pipeline safety, including:

• Identifying areas prone to earth movement

• Continued use of geotechnical engineers

• Developing design, construction, and monitoring plans for each identified area

• Developing mitigation measures for each identified area; possible measures are listed

• Monitoring conditions and weather patterns and evaluating soil stability

• Assessing pipeline vulnerability

• Following and considering new data, studies, and reports on the impact of changing weather patterns on soil stability

WHAT NEXT?

Contact Elemental Compliance today to get assistance in evaluating your programs and assets against new and upcoming regulations, advisory bulletins, and changes in enforcement trends!

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