National Energy Board Safety Advisory
On July 3, 2019, the National Energy Board issued safety advisory NEB SA 2019-01 to inform pipeline operators of a potential hazard regarding API 5L Monogram Electric Resistance Weld pipe joints manufactured by Hyundai Steel in their Ulsan, South Korea, mill.
A review of recent pipeline incidents in Alberta did not find any links to the hazard identified in NEB SA 2019-01. However, this hazard, if present, could lead to pipeline integrity issues in the future. As such, the Alberta Energy Regulator is reminding licensees that they must conduct an engineering assessment if they become aware of a condition that can lead to failures in their pipeline systems, as per clause 10.3.2.1 of CAN/CSA Z662 – Oil and Gas Pipeline Systems:
Where the operating company becomes aware of conditions that can lead to failures in its pipeline systems, it shall conduct an engineering assessment to determine which portions can be susceptible to failures and whether such portions are suitable for continued service.
For more information, please contact David Helmer, director of Industry Performance & Analytics, at @email.