Pipeline Integrity and Leak Detection Inspection Checklist

Pipeline integrity programs are a regulatory and safety necessity. This monthly inspection checklist supports hazardous liquid pipeline integrity management per PHMSA 49 CFR Part 195 and API 1160 pipeline integrity management requirements.

  • Industry: Oil & Gas / Energy
  • Frequency: Monthly
  • Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
  • Role: Pipeline Integrity Engineer / Operations Manager
  • Total Items: 31
  • Compliance: PHMSA 49 CFR Part 195 - Transportation of Hazardous Liquids by Pipeline, API 1160 - Managing System Integrity for Hazardous Liquid Pipelines, API 570 - Piping Inspection Code: In-Service Inspection, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.119 PSM - Process Safety Management

External Corrosion and Coating

Inspect external corrosion protection.

  • External coating inspection shows no disbondment, holidays, or damage?
  • No visible external corrosion at exposed or excavated pipe sections?
  • No third-party activity (excavation) that could have damaged coating?
  • Aerial or walking patrol completed for right-of-way encroachments?
  • Right-of-way vegetation management adequate for patrol visibility?

Cathodic Protection

Verify cathodic protection system is active.

  • CP potentials meeting -850 mV criterion at all test points (NACE SP0169)?
  • CP rectifiers operating at design current and voltage?
  • Anode beds current output within acceptable range?
  • All CP test stations accessible and measurements recorded?
  • Stray current interference evaluated at parallel structures?

Valve Stations and Block Valves

Inspect mainline valve stations.

  • All mainline block valves operational and exercised per schedule?
  • No valve stem, flange, or body leaks identified?
  • Actuator power (pneumatic, hydraulic, electric) functional?
  • Valve stations accessible and secure?
  • Valve exercise and maintenance records current?

Leak Detection System

Test leak detection system performance.

  • Computational pipeline monitoring (CPM) or leak detection system operational?
  • Flow metering instruments calibrated and performing correctly?
  • Pressure transmitters calibrated and reading correctly?
  • No active unresolved leak detection alarms or anomalies?
  • Leak detection system performance testing current per PHMSA requirements?

Integrity Management and HCA Segments

Review IMP status for HCA segments.

  • All High Consequence Areas (HCAs) identified and current?
  • Baseline assessment completed for all HCA segments?
  • Reassessment schedule current for all HCA segments?
  • All ILI or assessment anomalies responded to within required timeframes?
  • Operator Qualification (OQ) current for all tasks per 49 CFR 195.505?

Documentation and Compliance

Verify pipeline records and regulatory filings.

  • Pipeline records (as-built, GIS, operating data) current and accurate?
  • All required PHMSA incident reports filed on time?
  • Annual pipeline mileage and safety data report submitted?
  • Pipeline marked and one-call 811 program active?
  • Patrol and inspection records retained per regulatory requirements?
  • Monthly integrity inspection report prepared and filed?

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Why Use This Pipeline Integrity and Leak Detection Inspection Checklist?

This pipeline integrity and leak detection inspection checklist helps oil & gas / energy teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for pipeline integrity engineer / operations manager professionals, this checklist covers 31 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly.

Ensures compliance with PHMSA 49 CFR Part 195 - Transportation of Hazardous Liquids by Pipeline, API 1160 - Managing System Integrity for Hazardous Liquid Pipelines, API 570 - Piping Inspection Code: In-Service Inspection, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.119 PSM - Process Safety Management. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Pipeline Integrity and Leak Detection Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 31 inspection items across 6 sections: External Corrosion and Coating, Cathodic Protection, Valve Stations and Block Valves, Leak Detection System, Integrity Management and HCA Segments, Documentation and Compliance. It is designed for oil & gas / energy operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed monthly. Each completion takes approximately 45-60 minutes.

Who should use this Pipeline Integrity and Leak Detection Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Pipeline Integrity Engineer / Operations Manager professionals in the oil & gas / energy industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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