The impact of the ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) movement on government regulations of the US pipeline industry is one of the most significant seen in its 88-year history. The use of fresh water and seawater to hydrotest and abandon onshore and offshore pipelines is of particular concern. Utilizing water to test, monitor, flush and abandon pipelines has and will continue to be the most versatile and economic tool available. However, PHMSA's (Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration) new Mega Rule governing onshore pipelines and changes in guidance from BSEE (Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement) for abandonment of offshore pipelines have necessitated both the development of new as well as the improvement of existing technologies. This study examines some of the challenges and potential solutions to meet these new regulatory requirements.

Subject
Water, Materials, Regulations, Solids, Pipelines, Seawater, Natural gas, Liquids, Pipeline industry, Hydrostatic testing, Pigging, Cleaning, Oil
Keywords:
Regulatory, Hydrotesting, MEGA Rule, Pipelines, Abandonment, Decommissioning, Pigging
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2023
Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP)
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