Frequently-Asked Question FAQ #22

FAQ-22: Importance of Knowing Characteristics of HCAs

Question: Why is it important that operators know the specific characteristics of high consequence areas their pipelines traverse?

Answer: Operators need to know the characteristics of HCAs along their pipeline to make decisions required by the integrity management rule. For example, the number/nature of housing units (e.g., large apartment buildings) can affect the consequences of a leak or rupture, and thus affect the relative risk ranking of a segment or decisions regarding preventive and mitigative measures. Section 3.3 of ASME/ANSI B31.8S specifies additional consequence factors to consider, including security of gas supply, public convenience and necessity, and the potential for secondary failures.

These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are intended to clarify, explain, and promote better understanding of the pipeline integrity management rules. These FAQs are not substantive rules and do not create rights, assign duties, or impose new obligations not outlined in the existing integrity management regulations and standards. Requests for informal interpretations regarding the applicability of one or more of the pipeline integrity management rules to a specific situation may be submitted to PHMSA in accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 190.11.

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