The American Petroleum Institute (API) has published the first edition of API Recommended Practice (RP) 1184, Pipeline Facility Construction Inspection, presenting the latest requirements for safe and sustainable pipeline facility development.

This new standard represents a joint effort between API, the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association (CEPA) and the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA), bringing together the accumulated expertise of pipeline operators across the supply chain to improve pipeline facility construction and inspection.

The standard includes significant safety actions, including:

  • Detailed requirements for inspectors covering all aspects of facility construction;
  • “Stop Work” authority during pipeline construction if inspectors deem it necessary; and
  • A code of conduct for pipeline inspectors.

RP 1184 will be the basis for developing and implementing an industry-wide certification due to be released in mid-2022 by API’s Individual Certification Programs (ICP), which offers certifications that are accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) National Accreditation Board. This new certification will be a major step forward for the future of pipeline facility inspection.

This standard was developed to support the recent and future anticipated growth in the pipeline industry. According to API, the total gas pipeline infrastructure in the U.S. is projected to grow between 327% and 563% over the next two decades. This level of growth coincides with demographic shifts in North America, where experienced individuals are retiring and exiting the workforce, opening opportunities that must be filled with competent new inspectors.

RP 1184 adds greater rigor to the pipeline facility construction process by outlining a competency-based program for inspectors. The standard covers the basic requirements and includes associated references needed to perform inspection activities safely and effectively during onshore transmission pipeline facility construction. It provides monitoring and inspection guidance throughout the pipeline facility construction process for the inspector.

Furthermore, the standard includes strong integrity and corrosion control components to support quality control during the construction of a pipeline facility.  As such, RP 1184 helps advance the industry’s sustainability and environmental stewardship goals, including the reduction of unauthorized emissions releases while providing access to energy and resilient infrastructure as outlined by U.N. Sustainable Development Goals.

For more information on RP 1184, please visit www.API.org