Pipeline integrity has been of concern to NTSB for many years. However, as it now stands, after a pipeline is constructed, there is no requirement to test it periodically. Periodic testing requirements for liquid pipelines have now been proposed by the U.S. Department of Transportation. We understand that the proposed rule will become effective this later this Fall. We also understand that the DOT will follow up with similar testing requirements for natural gas pipelines.
Periodic testing becomes more important as our pipeline systems age.
Although age by itself does not mean a pipeline is unsafe, pipelines must be periodically inspected to determine if they have deteriorated or have been damaged. The Safety Board is currently investigating six pipeline accidents with potential pipeline integrity problems. The accidents occurred during 1999 and 2000. In these accidents, the lack of inspections or adequate corrective actions may be relevant safety issues. D.C. The hearing will provide a forum to examine the technologies available to assess the integrity of pipelines, such as internal inspection tools, and to examine the ability of pipeline operating systems to identify leaks and to prompt timely responses.