Frontline Integrity
Pipeline Integrity Management Systems (PIMS)
Pipeline Integrity Management Systems (PIMS) are implemented to proactively ensure that the safe, environmentally responsible, and reliable service of the pipeline system is maintained throughout its lifecycle. A robust PIMS maximises the value of the asset to the business by reducing integrity related downtime and is also the primary method for the Pipeline Operator to demonstrate that it is meeting corporate, legal and other stakeholder asset integrity requirements.
Regular technical auditing of the PIMS, both internally and externally, is an essential part of the asset management feedback loop to identify where gaps may exist and where improvements can be made to further optimise risk management activities.
With extensive experience of global onshore and offshore PIMS development and the practical challenges of day-to-day implementation, Frontline Integrity’s pipeline experts understand that Pipeline Operators require different types of audits based on their specific circumstances and have developed three levels of service to suit these differing requirements.
Level 1: Document review
A review, gap analysis and benchmarking of the documented PIMS only. Where audits have not historically taken place, this may be undertaken as an initial ‘screening’ activity to identify any major gaps, or alternatively to scope the impact of changes in corporate process or industry codes to an established PIMS.
Level 2: Focused implementation review:
A review, gap analysis and benchmarking of the documented PIMS as well a detailed review of the implementation of specifically selected PIMS elements (e.g. RBI, anomaly management etc). This may be selected when an Operator has concerns about a specific element of the PIMS, e.g. following a failure.
Level 3: Full implementation review:
A review, gap analysis and benchmarking of the documented PIMS along with its associated day-to-day implementation. This includes the execution of the Risk Management cycle (i.e. Plan-Do-Check-Act) as well as putting the associated management controls in place to support its execution (e.g. documentation and record keeping, management of change, performance measurement, emergency preparedness, etc). This comprehensive review should be undertaken at least every five years to ensure that the PIMS remains effective and is aligned to any emerging threats as the assets age. It may also be a mandatory requirement depending on the regulatory framework in place.
Case Studies:
PIMS Improvement Project – Phase 0
Frontline Integrity were asked to improve the risk management of concentrate and tailings export pipelines for a slurry pipeline operator. We led a number of PIMS workshops with the customer to develop a roadmap for the transition from a reactive to a proactive style of integrity management.
Pipeline Integrity Management System (PIMS) Audit
We deployed a team of experienced Principal Engineers to an operator in the Middle East to review the documented PIMS and visit the site to understand its actual day-to-day implementation. Within six weeks, we presented prioritised recommendations and action plan steps.
