Models for Complex Loadings, Operational Considerations, and Interactive Threats

Under Development

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Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)

Pipeline Risk and Information Management -- System Risk Modeling and Security

This study reviewed reportable accidents to determine the types and frequencies on interacting threats. It developed guidance for pipeline operators for identifying and evaluating complex, higher-risk situations involving integrity threat interactions. An analysis was performed to determine the interacting threats and form procedures to evaluate the significant threat interactions. An analytical tool was presented in the form of flow charts (see figure) to consider mitigative responses to reduce the risk of a pipeline failure from such threat interactions.

Pipeline failures suggest that more complex situations need to be accounted for than is currently the practice. Interactions of pipe defect conditions with variable loadings, increased loadings, complex loadings, or changing conditions have led to failures under conditions normally considered safe.

Increased Safety - The procedure and flow chart model enhances the understanding of interacting threats to pipeline integrity and reduces the risk of incidents from such interactions. Important threat interactions were identified and guidance was provided to assist operators with addressing such threats in their integrity management plans.

The procedure and flow chart model enhances the understanding of interacting threats to pipeline integrity and reduces the risk of incidents from such interactions. Important threat interactions were identified and guidance was provided to assist operators with addressing such threats in their integrity management plans.