This
Standard applies to on-shore pipeline systems constructed with ferrous
materials and that transport gas. This includes all parts of physical
facilities through which gas is transported, including pipe, valves, appurtenances
attached to pipe, compressor units, metering stations, regulator stations,
delivery stations, holders and fabricated assemblies. The principles and
processes embodied in integrity management are applicable to all pipeline
systems. This Standard is specifically designed to provide the operator
with the information necessary to develop and implement an effective integrity
management program utilizing proven industry practices and processes.
The processes and approaches within this Standard are applicable to the
entire pipeline system.
Managing the integrity of a gas pipeline system is the primary goal of every pipeline system operator. Operators want to continue providing safe and reliable delivery of natural gas to their customers without adverse effects on employees, the public, customers, or the environment. Incident-free operation has been and continues to be the gas pipeline industry’s goal. The use of this Code as a supplement to the ASME B31.8 Code will allow pipeline operators to move closer to that goal.
A comprehensive, systematic, and integrated integrity management program provides the means to improve the safety of pipeline systems. Such an integrity management program provides the information for an operator to effectively allocate resources for appropriate prevention, detection, and mitigation activities that will result in improved safety and a reduction in the number of incidents.