Section 5 - Selected Covered Tasks

XYZ Utilities O&M Manual Rev. 2.0 - November 1, 2019

The links below take you to subsections within this topic.

Within each task description, the "Refer to" links below take you to a different location within this topic. The "192." links take you to the applicable federal regulations. The regulations will open in a new browser tab.

COVERED TASK 19 - Patrolling and Inspecting Pipelines

COVERED TASK 21 - Line Locating and Mark Out

COVERED TASK 22 - Inspection of 3rd Party Excavations for Damage Prevention/Cast Iron Encroachment

COVERED TASK 68 - Operating an Odorizer

COVERED TASK 69 - Monitor Natural Gas Odorization Levels

TASK 70 - Abnormal Operating Conditions and Properties of Natural Gas

TASK 70P: Propane Air Plant Abnormal Operating Conditions and Properties of Natural Gas and Propane

COVERED TASK 19 - Patrolling and Inspecting Pipelines

A. Task Description:

Inspecting the pipeline by foot, vehicular, or aerial means.

B. Application of the three part test for covered tasks:

This task is performed on a pipeline facility;

The links below take you to the applicable federal regulations. The regulations will open in a new browser tab.

This task is performed as a requirement under 49 CFR 192.705, 192.707, and 192.721; and

This task can affect the operation or integrity of the pipeline.

C. Discussion:

Task includes the installation and maintenance of pipeline markers. In addition to inspecting the pipeline, inspection of surface conditions on or adjacent to the pipeline right-of-way construction activity, and other conditions that might affect safety and operations of the pipeline is included.

D. Subsequent Qualification Interval:

The subsequent qualification interval has been determined to be within five (5) years based on the following:

Task Frequency Performed	0-6 months
Complexity of Task	Low
Risk or Consequence of Performing Task Incorrectly	Medium

E. Abnormal Operating Conditions:

Refer to TASK #70

F. Evaluation Method(s)

Knowledge Evaluation

G. Domains and Elements

1. Pipeline Right-of-Way Inspections

a. Knowledge of right-of-way surface conditions indicating a potential leak

2. Pipeline Markers

a. Knowledge of pipeline marker installation practices

b. Knowledge of maintenance practices for pipeline markers

c. Knowledge of specifications for pipeline marker signs

3. Exposed / Above Ground Mains

a. Knowledge of facility inspection requirements

H. Abnormal Operating Conditions and Reactions

Recognize AOC	Reaction to AOC
Class 1 Leak	Notify Supervisor Make area safe Follow leak investigation protocols and action criteria for Class 1 Leaks
Class 1, 2, and 3	Conduct leak investigation per O&M Complete and submit Leak Investigation Report
Encroachment within the easement/pipeline right-of-way	Halt the encroachment if ongoing. Notify supervisor, evaluate for damage
Structure built over a gas line	Assure no leakage Notify supervisor
Abnormal stress on pipeline	Assure no leakage Notify supervisor
Exposed plastic pipe	Notify Supervisor Replace plastic if exposed for long period or damaged Cover plastic pipe with approved backfill material following backfilling and compaction procedure
Exposed steel pipe	Notify Supervisor Check condition of pipe for damage/corrosion Repair/replace/recoat as necessary Backfill with approved material following backfilling and compaction procedure

COVERED TASK 21 - Line Locating and Mark Out

A. Task Description:

Locating and marking an operator’s underground natural gas mains and services, including One Call Locates.

B. Application of the three part test for covered tasks:

This task is performed on a pipeline facility;

This task is required by 49 CFR 192.614; and

This task can affect the integrity of the pipeline.

C. Discussion:

D. Subsequent Qualification Interval:

The subsequent qualification interval has been determined to be within three (3) years based on the following:

Task Frequency Performed	0-6 months
Complexity of Task	Medium
Risk or Consequence of Performing Task Incorrectly	High

E. Abnormal Operating Conditions:

1. Refer to TASK #70

2. Missing or broken tracer wire;

3. Difficulty locating pipelines; and

4. Inadequate depth of cover.

F. Evaluation Method(s)

1. Knowledge Evaluation; and

2. Skill Evaluation.

G. Domains and Elements

1. Marking

a. Knowledge of marking colors

b. Knowledge of marking methods and techniques

c. Knowledge of where to mark

d. Knowledge of regulations

2. Fundamentals of Locating

a. Demonstrate how to read maps

b. Knowledge of alternate methods used when maps are not available or are not correct

c. Knowledge of the characteristics of pipe and soil relevant to locating

d. Knowledge of electromagnetic characteristics

e. Knowledge of locating regulations

f. Knowledge of documentation requirements

3. Conductive Locating

a. Knowledge of the conductive method

b. Knowledge of grounding techniques

c. Demonstrate locating process using the conductive method

4. Inductive Locating

a. Knowledge of the inductive method

b. Demonstrate locating process using the inductive method

5. Abnormal Operating Conditions

a. Missing or broken tracer wire

b. Difficulty locating pipeline

c. Inadequate depth of cover

H. Abnormal Operating Conditions and Reactions

Recognize AOC	Reaction to AOC
Poor records/no records/unable to locate	Request positive locate Premark area Update records when located
Multiple facilities in close proximity to or crossing gas facility causing bleed off	Check records in vicinity Request positive locate if unable to locate, Premark area Update records when located
Missing or broken tracer wire	Notify supervisor for additional help Advise customer of a shutdown To use insertion locate tool, if available/or request positive locate. Update records when located
Insulators and/or gaps in pipeline - loss of continuity	Relocate transmitter if possible or request positive locate Premark area Update records when located.
Faulty locate equipment – cable leads, grounding rod, weak batteries	Repair if possible or replace with properly operating equipment
Structures not exposed (Valve boxes paved over, landscaped over)	Locate and premark Notify appropriate supervisor for remedial action
Change in landscape and/or structures from original installation. (Building demo'ed, added or removed porches, poles or other physical structures relocated or removed).	Notify supervisor Locate if possible and update records. If not locatable, request positive locate, premark area
Inadequate depth of cover	Report to Supervisor, Lower as necessary or use shallow plate protection

COVERED TASK 22 - Inspection of 3rd Party Excavations for Damage Prevention/Cast Iron Encroachment

A. Task Description:

Inspection for potential damage and/or encroachment of an operator's pipelines at a third party excavation.

B. Application of the three part test for covered tasks:

This task is performed on a pipeline facility;

This task is regulated under 49 CFR 192.614 and 192.755; and

This task can affect the integrity of the pipeline.

C. Discussion:

D. Subsequent Qualification Interval:

The subsequent qualification interval has been determined to be within three (3) years based on the following:

Task Frequency Performed	0-6 months
Complexity of Task	Medium
Risk or Consequence of Performing Task Incorrectly	High

E. Abnormal Operating Conditions:

1. Refer to TASK #70

2. Pipe damage; and

3. Damage prevention violations.

F. Evaluation Method(s)

Knowledge Evaluation

G. Domains and Elements

1. Pipe Separation and Depth

a. Know how to identify perpendicular and parallel trench conditions of encroachment

b. Knowledge of depth requirements

c. Knowledge of separation requirements

2. Inspecting for Adequate Pipeline Support

a. Know how to identify inadequate bracing of a pipeline

b. Know how to identify undermined pipelines

c. Knowledge of proper blasting operations around a pipeline facility

3. Excavator Practices

a. Knowledge of excavations and demolitions requiring notification/exemptions

b. Knowledge of the information needed for notification

c. Knowledge of One Call Center ticket size and scope

d. Knowledge of One Call Center ticket types and regulations

e. Knowledge of One Call Center ticket timeframes and expiration dates

f. Know how to identify clear evidence

g. Knowledge of hand digging practices

h. Knowledge of directional bore practices

i. Knowledge of One Call Center ticket responses

4. Operator Practices

a. Know how to obtain/record facility information

b. Knowledge of underground facility locate marks

c. Know how to identify abandoned lines

d. Know how to identify private sewer lines and sewer laterals

5. Damage investigation for root cause determination

a. Knowledge of picture requirements for documentation

b. Knowledge of information to be gathered

c. Know how to report a reportable incident

d. Know how to perform a root cause investigation

6. Abnormal Operating Conditions

a. Know how to respond to potential pipe damage resulting from excavation or demolition

b. Know how to respond to damage prevention violations

H. Abnormal Operating Conditions and Reactions

Recognize AOC	Reaction to AOC
Coating on steel pipe damaged, including bubble in coating	Cut out and remove damaged section of coating Feather back Clean and recoat
Steel pipe dented or scraped	Notify supervisor Replace section of pipe
Light surface corrosion	Clean pipe and recoat
Excessive corrosion	Check for further corrosion Replace section of pipe Notify supervisor
Unknown Wall Thickness	Use Ultrasonic Wall Thickness Tester
Cast iron main exposed unsupported/hanging	Support pipe. Notify supervisor of condition
Road construction grinding/pulverizing, valve box damage and or drip risers affected	Notify contractor and supervisor
Damage prevention code violations	Notify excavator Report to Supervisor Obtain information for code violation report

COVERED TASK 68 - Operating an Odorizer

A. Task Description:

Controlling the amount of odorant added to flowing gas by filling and adjusting an odorizer.

B. Application of the three part test for covered tasks:

This is performed on a pipeline facility;
This is required by 49 CFR 192.625; and
This can affect the integrity of the pipeline.

C. Discussion:

D. Subsequent Qualification Interval:

The subsequent qualification interval has been determined to be within three (3) years based on the following:

Task Frequency Performed	0-6 months
Complexity of Task	Medium
Risk or Consequence of Performing Task Incorrectly	High

E. Abnormal Operating Conditions:

1. Requisite TASK #70; and

2. Odorant spill; and

3. Over/under odorization.

F. Evaluation Method(s)

Knowledge Evaluation

G. Domains and Elements

1. Odorant properties

a. Know the chemical make-up of odorant

b. Know how and why odorant is added to natural gas

2. Safety Measures

a. Knowledge of how to interpret the NFPA placard for odorant

b. Knowledge of steps to be taken to prevent a release of odorant

3. Operating an Odorizer

a. Knowledge of the differences in the types and operation of odorizers

b. Know how to define injection rate

c. Know the factors used to determine injection rate

d. Knowledge of odorant tank and associated fittings

e. Knowledge of the component pressures

4. Storage Tank/Cylinder

a. Knowledge of the NFPA placard

b. Knowledge of the fittings

c. Knowledge of overpressure protection

5. Transferring Odorant

a. Knowledge of the procedures to transfer odorant

b. Know how to isolate an odorant system

6. Handling controlled Odorant releases

a. Knowledge of the proper clean-up methods

7. Abnormal Operating Conditions

a. Know how to identify and respond to an odorant spill

b. Know how to respond to over/under odorization

H. Abnormal Operating Conditions and Reactions

Recognize AOC	Reaction to AOC
Improper odorant level	Adjust odorizer to achieve proper odorant level
Excessive odor around odorizer	Locate and repair leak
Odorant tank pressure too high or too low	Repair or replace tank regulator or re-adjust
Odorant spill	Clean up as appropriate Notify supervisor/gas control and fire department
Leakage	Repair leak Notify supervisor/gas control and Fire Department
No gas pressure/off at test point	Select alternate test point
Operating pressure out of range	Notify supervisor

COVERED TASK 69 - Monitor Natural Gas Odorization Levels

A. Task Description:

Measuring and recording the concentration of odorant in natural gas.

B. Application of the three part test for covered tasks:

This task is performed on a pipeline facility;

This task is performed as a requirement under 49 CFR 192.625; and

This task can affect the operation or integrity of the pipeline.

C. Discussion:

Odorant monitoring task requires the use of special equipment capable of detecting and measuring the level of odorant in natural gas.

D. Subsequent Qualification Interval:

The subsequent qualification interval has been determined to be within five (5) years based on the following:

Task Frequency Performed	0-6 months
Complexity of Task	Low
Risk or Consequence of Performing Task Incorrectly	High

E. Abnormal Operating Conditions:

1. Requisite TASK #70; and

2. Odor fade;

3. No odor; and

4. Odor level evaluating tool malfunction.

F. Evaluation Method(s)

Knowledge Evaluation.

G. Domains and Elements

1. Using odor level evaluating tool

a. Knowledge of how to operate an odor level evaluating tool

b. Knowledge of the maintenance requirements for an odor level evaluating tool

2. Determining Test Point Location

a. Knowledge of the proper test point locations

b. Knowledge of injection locations near sampling point

c. Knowledge of environmental factors/external conditions

3. Sniff Test

a. Know how to perform a sniff test

b. Know how to interpret odorant/olfactory levels

c. Ability to perform a sniff test

4. Odorizing a New Pipeline Installation

a. Knowledge of the effects of odorizing a new pipeline

5. Documentation

a. Knowledge of the documentation requirements

6. Abnormal Operating Conditions

a. Know how to respond to no odor levels

b. Know how to identify and respond to an odor level evaluating tool malfunction

c. Know how to identify and respond to odor fade

H. Abnormal Operating Conditions and Reactions

Recognize AOC	Reaction to AOC
Improper odorant level	Adjust odorizer to achieve proper odorant level
Excessive odor around odorizer	Locate and repair leak
Odorant tank pressure to high or to low	Repair or replace tank regulator or re-adjust
Odorant spill	Clean up as appropriate Notify supervisor/gas control and fire department
Leakage	Repair leak Notify supervisor/gas control and fire department
No gas pressure, off at test point	Select alternate test point
Operating pressure out of range	Notify supervisor
Odor fade	Notify Supervisor Consider supplemental odorization
No odor	Notify Supervisor Perform odorant tests in vicinity Check injection point for proper operation Consider supplemental odorization

TASK 70 - Abnormal Operating Conditions and Properties of Natural Gas

A. Task Description:

An abnormal operating condition that can occur during the performance of any covered task.

Properties of natural gas important in the performance of covered tasks.

B. Application of the three part test for covered tasks:

This is not performed on a pipeline facility;

This is required under 49 CFR 192.803; and

This can affect the operation or integrity of the pipeline.

C. Discussion:

D. Subsequent Qualification Interval:

The subsequent qualification interval has been determined to be within three (3) years based on the following:

Task Frequency Performed	6-12 months
Complexity of Task	Medium
Risk or Consequence of Performing Task Incorrectly	High

E. Abnormal Operating Conditions:

1. Over pressure - Pressure that exceeds the operating limits of the gas system;

2. Inadequate Pressure - Pressure that falls below the normal operating requirements of the gas system;

3. Unintentional ignition - The uncontrolled ignition of gas;

4. Explosion;

5. Component failure - Failure of a component of the pipeline to perform in the manner for which it was designed;

6. Damage to facility - Any damage to a pipeline component;

7. Improper odorization - Excessive or inadequate odorization of a gas system; and

8. Escaping/blowing gas - Any unplanned, uncontrolled escape of gas.

F. Evaluation Method(s)

Knowledge Evaluation

G. Domains and Elements

H. Abnormal Operating Conditions and Reactions

Recognize AOC	Reaction to AOC
Overpressure	Notify Supervisor/Gas Dispatch If required, implement the Gas Emergency Response Plan Investigate cause and extent of over pressurization Prepare to isolate affected area
Under/No Pressure	Notify Supervisor If required, implement Gas Emergency Response Plan Investigate cause and extent of facilities affected by under/no pressure Prepare to isolate area
Unintentional Ignition	Notify Supervisor Follow emergency response procedures Request Fire Department assistance Establish perimeter around area Investigate cause
Fire or explosion	Notify Supervisor Follow emergency response procedures Request Fire Department assistance Evacuate area Establish perimeter Investigate cause and extent
Component Failure	Notify Supervisor Follow emergency response procedures Repair/replace failed component
Damage to Facility	Notify Supervisor Follow emergency response procedures Repair/replace damaged facility
Improper odorization	Notify Supervisor of Gas Systems Operations Confirm odorant level Remediate according to O&M
Escaping/blowing gas	Notify Supervisor Follow emergency response procedures If necessary, request Fire Department assistance Establish perimeter Investigate cause If appropriate, shut down section of affected piping
Severe external corrosion	Notify Supervisor/Corrosion Supervisor Submit work order for remediation

TASK 70P: Propane Air Plant Abnormal Operating Conditions and Properties of Natural Gas and Propane

A. Task Description:

An abnormal operating condition that can occur during the performance of any covered task at a propane air plant.

Properties of natural gas and propane important in the performance of covered tasks at propane air plants.

B. Application of the three part test for covered tasks:

This is not performed on a pipeline facility;

This is required under 49 CFR 192.803; and

This can affect the operation or integrity of the pipeline.

C. Discussion:

D. Subsequent Qualification Interval:

The subsequent qualification interval has been determined to be within three (3) years based on the following:

Task Frequency Performed	6-12 months
Complexity of Task	Medium
Risk or Consequence of Performing Task Incorrectly	High

E. Abnormal Operating Conditions:

1. Over pressure - Pressure that exceeds the operating limits of the system;

2. Inadequate Pressure - Pressure that falls below the normal operating requirements of the system;

3. Unintentional ignition - The uncontrolled ignition of gas;

4. Explosion;

5. Component failure - Failure of a component of the system to perform in the manner for which it was designed;

6. Damage to facility - Any damage to a system component;

7. Liquid release - Any unplanned, uncontrolled escape of liquid;

8. Improper propane/air mixture - High or low BTU levels;

9. Improper odorization - Excessive or inadequate odorization; and

10. Escaping/blowing gas - Any unplanned, uncontrolled escape of gas.

F. Evaluation Method(s)

Knowledge Evaluation

G. Domains and Elements

H. Abnormal Operating Conditions and Reactions

Recognize AOC	Reaction to AOC
Improper BTU mix	Notify supervisor Shut down plant and re-start to get proper mix
Gas blowing from a pressure relieving device	Notify supervisor. Isolate relieving device Troubleshoot and repair or replace
Gauges and telemeters indicating readings outside of normal operating limits	Notify supervisor Check gauge calibration If out of calibration, schedule re-calibration. If gauge is accurate, troubleshoot and make adjustments to get pressures back to normal range
Multiple buildings on fire due to system overpressure	Notify supervisor and activate ESD Notify Fire Department
Several customers reporting no gas indicating low or no pressure.	Notify supervisor Troubleshoot the problem including checking the propane super monitor for malfunction Adjust regulators as needed.
Several customers report noisy operation of gas appliances or abnormal flame color	Check BTU and specific gravity of propane/air mixture Adjust blend to provide interchangeable mixture as needed