Frequently-Asked Question FAQ #248

FAQ-248: Basic Regulatory Requirements

Question: What are the basic regulatory requirements for cased pipe monitoring and inspection and what code sections apply?

Answer: Cased pipe that is located in a covered segment, as defined in 49 CFR § 192.7, must have an integrity baseline assessment and periodic reassessments using one of the assessment methods. Under the Integrity Management Rule, operators cannot leave shorted, contacted or coupled casings (either metallic or electrolytic) in their pipelines or segments without mitigating the situation. Such a condition (shorts, contacts or couples) is considered detrimental to the long-term integrity of the covered segment.