[Pipeline Leak Detection]
The NTSB Board Meeting to discuss the 2021-2022 Most Wanted List proposed 10 recommendations, including one safety item to improve pipeline leak detection and mitigation. This safety item has three elements:
- Equipping gas transmission lines with ruptured detection technology;
- Installing automatic shut-off valves and remote-control valves on natural gas transmission lines; and
- Installing methane detectors in all residents with natural gas service.
The NTSB is recommending that the industry take the following actions:
- Revise the National Fuel Gas Code, National Fire Protection Association 54 to require methane detection systems for all types of residential occupancies with gas service; and
- Develop additional guidance that identifies steps gas distribution operators can take to safely respond to leaks, fires, explosions, and emergency calls.
The NTSB also notes that operators should review and update as needed:
- Incident-reporting practices;
- Policies and procedures for responding to leaks, fires, explosions, and emergency calls; and
- integrity management programs
A full list of recommended actions can be found on the NTSB website.