What timeframes apply to “discovery” of conditions presenting a potential threat to the integrity of a pipeline when using Direct Assessment?
The rule requires that conditions presenting a potential threat to pipeline integrity be discovered as soon as the operator has enough information to do so [See 192.933(b)]. The rule also establishes a maximum time limit of 180 days after completion of the assessment to “discover” a condition presenting a potential threat to pipeline integrity. In the case of ECDA, the assessment is considered complete when the last Direct Examination is completed (Refer to FAQ-34 and FAQ-58). However, because the direct examination provides the operator with specific, quantitative information about conditions presenting a potential threat to pipeline integrity, “discovery” must be declared immediately upon completion of the direct examination. Therefore, for ECDA, the 180-day time limit to declare “discovery” of a condition potentially affecting the integrity of the pipeline identified during a direct examination is moot. (If an operator encounters unusual circumstances which indicate the need to dela
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