Improving Quality Management Systems (QMS) for Pipeline Construction Activities

Overview

Main Objective

The main objectives of the project are: 1) to develop guidance pertaining to issues related to quality of a new pipeline and how these issues should be addressed through standards, specification, and in the field; 2) to develop general guidelines for a QMS for pipeline projects to provide greater assurance of consistent and acceptable quality; and 3) to suggest enhancements to regulations and standards to improve the overall quality of new pipelines.

Public Abstract

Everyone wants a safe pipeline - pipeline owners, shareholders, customers, regulators, and the general public. A key to constructing a safe pipeline is the use of a thorough, robust quality management system (QMS) during all phases of pipeline construction. Det Norske Veritas (U.S.A.), Inc. (DNV) has been at the forefront of assuring quality in the energy and ship building businesses around the world for over 150 years; key to the business of DNV is the implementation of QMS. QMS is a system of quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) performed throughout all phases of constructing a new pipeline, from design through commissioning. Key components of QMS include: 1) detailed review of the design, material specifications, and construction specifications; 2) qualification of construction procedures, materials, and service suppliers; 3) training and qualification of construction and inspection personnel; 4) a process for identifying quality concerns and remediation; and 5) a feedback loop to ensure continuous improvements are incorporated into the current and future construction projects.

The main objectives of the project, sponsored jointly by PHMSA and DNV, are: 1) to develop guidance pertaining to issues related to quality of a new pipeline and how these issues should be addressed through standards, specification, and in the field; 2) to develop general guidelines for a QMS for pipeline projects to provide greater assurance of consistent and acceptable quality; and 3) to suggest enhancements to regulations and standards to improve the overall quality of new pipelines.

The methodology for achieving these objectives include: 1) a literature search of previous work on QMS and individual components; 2) coordination with standards committees and regulatory bodies to identify components and best practices to be included in a QMS; 3) review of current regulatory requirements; and 4) development of a QMS framework for onshore pipeline construction.

Summary and Conclusions

The research developed a Quality Management System (QMS) framework (Appendix A) for onshore pipeline construction activities and an accompanying guidance document (Appendix B) to be used either as a stand-alone management system or as the quality component in a company's corporate management system. The framework and guidance document are intended to assist pipeline operating companies and contractors in the development and implementation of a company-specific QMS for pipeline construction. The QMS framework includes a set of processes and procedures required for planning, executing, and continually improving the ability of a process, activity, or product to meet defined requirements. The guidance document includes recommendations, suggestions, and examples that may be considered when developing the details of how to meet the requirements of the framework. Please find the below letter from the American Petroleum Institute illustrating this work was highly influential in developing Recommended Practice 1177, Recommended Practice for Steel Pipeline Construction Quality Management Systems, 1st edition.

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