Regulatory Landscape
Interstate oil and gas pipelines are subjected to rigorous safety regulations, predominantly outlined in 49 CFR Part 192 and 49 CFR Part 195. The responsibility to issue and enforce these regulations rests with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) under the US Department of Transportation. Additionally, individual states impose these federal regulations, complemented by their specific requirements. It’s not uncommon for federal or state regulators to conduct audits on an operator’s standard operating practices and integrity management plans. On top of these regulations, the industry has proactively developed vital safety standards and recommended practices, which either find a place in the regulations or are adopted as company standards.
Kiefner’s Expertise in Regulatory Support
Our team of consultants is deeply familiar with the intricacies of safety regulations in the pipeline sector. Our aim is to ensure that throughout the lifecycle of your pipeline – from installation to operation – you remain in full compliance with all pertinent regulations, standards, and industry best practices.
Specific Regulatory Consultation Services Offered by Kiefner
- Integrity Verification Process (IVP): We aid in developing both engineering and field examination practices to ensure operators meet the stringent IVP requirements.
- Expert Testimony: Our seasoned experts can provide testimony in public hearings, offering insights and data-backed information.
- Audit Assistance: We guide operators in self-audits and procedural enhancements to align with integrity management regulations.
- Post-Incident Action Plans: In the unfortunate event of an incident, we assist in devising return-to-service plans and other responses to corrective action orders.
- Engineering Support for Alternative Practices: If you wish to employ practices that diverge from standard requirements, we offer engineering support to demonstrate the safety equivalence or superiority of your chosen methods.
Benefits of Collaborating with Kiefner for Code Compliance
- Industry Expertise: With a deep understanding of various codes and standards, we provide insights and recommendations tailored to each pipeline’s unique challenges.
- Advanced Data Systems: Our specialized internal data-management systems help in efficient monitoring, reporting, and decision-making.
- Qualified Personnel: Our team of certified professionals possesses comprehensive knowledge of multiple regulatory authorities, ensuring a holistic approach to compliance.
- Methodical Practices: We adopt meticulous inspection methods to guarantee consistent and accurate assessments.
- Training Services: Apart from inspection and assessment, we also offer training to client teams, ensuring an internal culture of compliance.
- Accessibility: With a widespread presence, we assure prompt assistance, ensuring minimal downtime during inspections.
Conclusion
Pipeline operators, by leveraging Kiefner’s assistance in regulatory compliance and fitness-for-service evaluations, can significantly boost their confidence in their pipeline integrity management programs. With an ever-evolving regulatory landscape, having a trusted partner like Kiefner ensures that operations remain compliant, efficient, and above all, safe.