The Importance of Landowner Communication

The Importance of Landowner Communication The Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s (“PHMSA”) Recommended Practice BL 12 expects pipeline operators to conduct regular right-of-way maintenance programs. Regular maintenance ensures that vegetation doesn’t hinder critical monitoring and inspection efforts. The bulletin points out that beyond routine monitoring, “in the event of an emergency, a clear ROW is necessary…

Are You Compliant? PHMSA Advisory Bulletin: Centerline Surveys Essential

Are You Compliant? PHMSA Advisory Bulletin: Centerline Surveys Essential On December 13, 2016, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration issued an advisory bulletin to remind gas transmission line operators of best methods for identifying, mapping, and properly accounting for High Consequence Areas (HCAs). While the bulletin generally revisits standards previously conveyed, it speaks clearly…

Pipeline Mapping: Critically Important to Avoiding Critical Incidents

Pipeline Mapping: Critically Important to Avoiding Critical Incidents  Moving oil and gas safely and efficiently from a wellhead to end-users stands as the sole and unambiguous purpose of pipelines. When either of those key elements — safety or efficiency — is lacking, it represents a problem. When both are missing, it signals a complete breakdown of purpose.…