API updates pipeline standard, expanding scope of inspections

The American Petroleum Institute (API) issued the second edition of its Recommended Practice Pipeline Construction Inspection standard this week, aiming to improve safety by scaling up what inspectors’ roles entail.

This updated standard broadens covered activities to include more than merely new pipeline construction, growing inspectors’ roles to include all pipeline construction along the right of way, down to repairs and excavations of existing lines. Inspectors are now expected to begin work during pre-construction and continue through the surveying processes, construction activities, and other work immediately following completion.

“The new inspection standard demonstrates the industry’s commitment to building energy infrastructure that is safe and environmentally protective,” Debra Phillips, Global Industry Services Senior vice president, said. “Additional emphasis has been placed on building communication and rapport between operators, inspectors, and contractors to not only create effective working relationships between the parties but also drive a culture of safety throughout pipeline construction. The new standard is a key asset to delivering pipeline projects that are safe for the workers that build them and the local communities they serve.”

At the same time, API has moved to update its inspector program examinations under the API Individual Certification Program to reflect the new standard. Currently, more than 8,000 certified individuals conducting API 1169 inspections are a part of the program, though the second edition won’t be brought into that program’s exams until 2021. This delay, the organization said, should allow pipeline personnel time to familiarize themselves with the new standard and its enhancements.

The new standard was developed alongside representatives of the country’s lead safety regulator for pipelines, the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.