Post-Construction ILI Execution Planning Guidelines for Pipeline Quality Verification

Abstract

Inline inspections following new pipeline construction completion as a means of ensuring specific quality requirements are fulfilled poses unique challenges when compared with inline inspections in operating pipelines. Construction contractors are often responsible for conducting a post-construction inline inspection as part of construction quality verification; however, construction contractors often lack expertise in planning and conducting inline inspections. Schedule constraints for conducting inline inspections, often introduced because of other prior construction delays, can contribute to poor planning and execution. The consequent undesirable outcome may be failed inspections further delaying pipeline construction completion, turnover to the Client, and final payments. It is in the interest of all stakeholders to ensure inline inspections be completed in a timely manner and in a way that maximizes the likelihood that the needed pipeline data will be successfully acquired. It is crucial for post-construction inline inspection success, that all stakeholders poses basic knowledge of operational requirements and inspection proceedings. Additionally, adequate planning of the inline inspection proceedings can greatly mitigate the risks associated with the inline inspection. To ensure necessary considerations and the division of responsibilities is clear and understood among all stakeholders; a Post-Construction ILI Execution Plan is prepared. The Inline Inspection Contractor is responsible for completion of the Post-Construction ILI Execution Plan in consultation with other stakeholders. The contents of the Post-Construction ILI Execution Plan include project information, run conditions, and stakeholder contact information. Moreover, it defines the assignment of stakeholder responsibilities and involvement for all inspection planning and execution aspects.