Study on Current Practices, Technologies, Problems and Recommendations Relating to the Overall Safety of Gas Pipeline Distribution Systems

Overview

Main Objective

This study provided an overall assessment of the safety of natural gas distribution systems and the measures being promoted or in use to increase safety. This report summarizes data collected by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration and the results of PHMSA-sponsored studies/research intended to improve the safety of specific gas distribution problems.

Public Abstract

This study provided an overall assessment of the safety of natural gas distribution systems and the measures being promoted or in use to increase safety. This report summarizes data collected by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration and the results of PHMSA-sponsored studies/research intended to improve the safety of specific gas distribution problems. The report focuses on several problem areas identified as important from a safety standpoint and formulates conclusions and recommendations based on previous work and research underway. Techniques employed included a wide literature survey, review of leakage data, and fault tree analysis. The main topics in the report relate to gas distribution pipeline system inspection and assessment, corrosion, outside force damage, odorization, plastic pipe usage, emergency plans, valving and rapid shutdown, and master metering. Results include findings, conclusions and recommendations for increasing gas system safety for each topic.

Status History

Final report issued 11/1975

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