00 Saip 11

Inspection Procedure
00-SAIP-11 16 May 2018

In-service Inspection Requirements of Subsea Assets
Document Responsibility: Inspection Engineering Standards Committee
Contents
1 Scope ................................................................ 2
2 Purpose............................................................. 2
3 References........................................................ 2
4 Abbreviations and Definitions............................ 5
5 Inspection Strategy ........................................... 8
6 Instructions........................................................ 9
7 Responsibilities ............................................... 18
Revision Summary................................................. 19
Appendix A - Structure Inspection Checklist .......... 20

Appendix B - Pipelines Inspection Checklist .......... 21
Previous Issue: 24 March 2016 Next Planned Update: TBD

Revised paragraphs are indicated in the right margin Page 1 of 21
Contact: Al-Lutfallah, Muhammed Hassan (lutfalmh) on phone +966-13-8801139
©Saudi Aramco 2018. All rights reserved.

Document Responsibility: Inspection Engineering Standards Committee 00-SAIP-11
Issue Date: 16 May 2018
Next Planned Update: TBD In-service Inspection Requirements of Subsea Assets
1 Scope
1.1 This inspection procedure specifies the minimum requirements for inspection of
subsea assets owned and operated by Saudi Aramco operating facilities.
1.2 The procedure applies to static subsea assets including submarine metallic
pipelines, offshore platforms, free standing conductors, and other submerged
structures.
1.3 Exclusions
The following are excluded from this procedure:
1.3.1 Subsea assets in Saudi Aramco operations which are covered by other
Saudi Aramco regulations, such as loading hoses of Single Point
Mooring which are covered under GI-0086.001 “Handling, Storage,
Inspection and Testing of SPM Hoses in the Field.”
1.3.2 Special subsea assets (i.e., flexible pipelines). For subsea assets that are
not covered by this procedure, the asset vendor shall provide the
recommended inspection requirements.
1.3.3 Subsea assets owned or operated by Marine Department or Contractors.
2 Purpose
2.1 The purpose of this procedure is to provide inspection guidelines to aid in

ensuring long-term integrity and reliability of subsea assets through evaluation
of the adequacy of in place corrosion protection system; as well as providing
guidance on the identification and evaluation of structural anomalies and
confirmed defects.
2.2 The subject procedure is also meant to provide a standardized framework for
subsea inspection program including inspection strategy, inspection
requirements, personnel qualifications, records keeping, responsibilities, and
defects evaluation and repairs.
3 References
3.1 Saudi Aramco References
Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures

SAEP-20 Equipment Inspection Schedule
Page 2 of 21
SAEP-76 Decommissioning of Offshore Pipelines

SAEP-79 Subsea Pipeline Repair
SAEP-122 Project Records
SAEP-310 Piping and Pipeline Repair
SAEP-323 Contract Welders and Brazers- Performance
Qualification Testing and Tracking Requirements
SAEP-333 Cathodic Protection Monitoring
SAEP-1104 Welding Testing Supplement S04 for SMAW,
Stainless Steel/ Nickel Backing
SAEP-1105 Welding Testing Supplement S05 for SMAW, Nickel,
Single Sided
SAEP-1108 Welding Testing Supplement S08 for GTAW, Nickel
SAEP-1116 Welding Testing Supplement S16 for SMAW, Nickel
Lap
SAEP-1117 Welding Testing Supplement S17 for SMAW, Wet
Welding
SAEP-1161 Testing and Inspection (T&I) Reporting Procedure
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

SAES-B-009 Fire Protection and Safety Requirements for
Offshore Production Facilities
SAES-H-004 Protective Coating Selection and Application
Requirements for Offshore Structure and
Facilities
SAES-L-850 Design of Submarine Pipelines and Risers
SAES-M-005 Design and Construction of Fixed Offshore Platforms
SAES-Q-001 Criteria for Design and Construction of Concrete
Structure
Saudi Aramco Standard Drawing

AD-036763 Offshore PLIDCO Sleeve Anode
Saudi Aramco General Instructions (GIs)

GI-0002.100 Work Permit System
GI-0086.001 Handling, Storage, Inspection, and Testing of SPM
Hoses in the Field
Page 3 of 21
Saudi Aramco Best Practice

SABP-M-001 Inspection Guidelines of Offshore Structures
Saudi Aramco Engineering Report

SAER-2365 Saudi Aramco Mothball Manual
Saudi Aramco Inspection Procedure

00-SAIP-78 Inspection Records/Filing Procedure
Saudi Aramco Marine Instruction Manual (MIM)

MIM 1193.501 Work Permit System
MIM 1197.001 Procedures and Safety Rules for Diving Operations
MIM 1201.007 Marine Safe Working Practice
3.2 Industry Codes and Standards
American Society of Mechanical Engineers

ASME B31.4 Pipeline Transportation System for Liquids and
Slurries
ASME B31.8 Gas Transmission and Distribution Piping System
American Welding Society

AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code - Steel
AWS D3.6M Underwater Welding Code
American Petroleum Institute

API RP 2SIM Structural Integrity Management of Fixed Offshore
Structures
API RP 2A-WSD Planning, Designing, and Constructing Fixed
Offshore Platforms-Working Stress Design
API RP 14E Recommended Practice for Design and Installation
of Offshore Production Platform Piping System
API RP 1111 Design, Construction, Operation, and Maintenance
of Offshore Hydrocarbon Pipelines (Limit State
Design)
American Concrete Institute

ACI-546.2R Guide to Underwater Repair of Concrete
Page 4 of 21
DET NORSKE VERITAS

DNV-OS-F101 Submarine Pipeline System
DNV-OS-C205 Environmental Conditions and Environmental
Loads
DNV-RP-F101 Corroded Pipelines
DNV-RP-F102 Coating Repair
DNV-RP-F103 Cathodic Protection of Submarine Pipelines by
Galvanic Anodes
DNV-RP-F105 Free Spanning Pipelines
DNV-RP-F109 On-Bottom Stability Design of Submarine Pipelines
DNV-RP-F113 Pipeline Subsea Repair
DNV-RP-F116 Integrity Management of Submarine Pipeline
Systems
4 Abbreviations and Definitions
4.1 Abbreviations
ACFM Alternating Current Field Measurement
AWS American Welding Society
API American Petroleum Institute
ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers
CP Cathodic Protection
CSD Consulting Services Department
CSWIP Certification Scheme for Welding Inspection Personnel
CVI Closed Visual Inspection
DN Defect Notification
EIS Equipment Inspection Schedule
FMD Flooded Member Detection
GVI General Visual Inspection
ILI In-Line Inspection
ISO International Organization for Standardization
ITU Inspection Technology Unit
Page 5 of 21
IMCA International Marine Contractors Association

MPI Magnetic Particle Inspection
NAOO Northern Area Oil Operation
NDT Non-Destructive Testing
OIU Operations Inspection Unit
OME Operation Maintenance Engineering
PLEM Pipeline End Manifold
ROV Remote Operated Vehicles
SAIF SAP Application for Inspection of Facilities
SCR Structure Condition Records
SIS Safety Inspection Sheet
SPM Single Point Mooring
T&I Testing and Inspection
UT Ultrasonic Testing
WPS Welding Procedure Specification
4.2 Definitions
As-built Survey: Survey of the installed and completed subsea asset system that
is performed to verify that the completed installation work meets the specified
requirements, and to document deviations from the original design, if any.
Class B Welds: Class B underwater welds are intended for less critical
applications where lower ductility, moderate porosity, and other limited
discontinuities can be tolerated. Refer to AWS D3.6M.
Debris: Any objects (metallic and non-metallic) near or contacting the asset
that may cause damage to the asset or create an addition current demand on the
in place CP system.
Diver Inspector: A qualified personnel who performs subsea inspections and

meets applicable qualifications listed under Section 6.3 of this procedure.
He is not member of the Operations Engineering Inspection Unit or Plant
Inspection Unit.
Fixed Platform: A platform extending above and supported by the sea bed by
means of piling, spread footings, or other means with the intended purpose of
remaining stationary over an extended period. Fixed platforms may be entirely
subsea or have part of the structure above sea level.
Page 6 of 21
Repair: All work necessary to restore an asset to a condition deemed fit-for-

purpose.
Integrity: Means soundness - i.e., free from flaws or defects.
Manned Platform: A platform where operating or maintenance personnel are

normally found for at least one full shift each working day. Wellhead platforms
are not considered to be manned platforms. Tie-in platforms not bridge-connected
to other manned platforms are not considered to be manned platforms.
Marine Growth: Living organisms attached to an offshore structure.
Other Structures: It includes structures other than manned and unmanned

platforms (dolphins, piers, trestles, free standing conductors, etc.).
Seabed: Materials below the sea in which a structure is founded, whether of

soils such as sand, silt or clay.
Splash Zone: Area of a structure that is frequently wetted due to waves and
tidal variations. The splash zone is defined as the area between LAT (Lowest
Astronomical Tide) and the maximum high tide. For legs and other structural
members splash zone is between -1.8 to +4.3 m. For pipeline risers the splash
zone is between -1.8 to +4.6 m or the first riser flange whichever is lower.
For conductors the splash zone is between -3 to +4.6 m.
Unmanned Platform: A platform which does not meet manned platform

criteria.
Scour: Removal of seabed soils caused by currents and waves.
Pipeline End Manifold (PLEM) Piping: All piping components between the
end flange of a submarine loading line and the connection to underbuoy hoses of
a single point mooring.
Riser: That part of a submarine pipeline that is situated between the connecting
flange at the seabed nearest to the platform and the first flange above water level.
Submarine Pipelines: All lines used for the transportation of fluids and/or
gases, installed on or below the seabed between an offshore facility and the
demarcation point onshore or another offshore facility.
Underwater Inspection Survey: Underwater Inspection Survey is conducted

to provide the information necessary to evaluate the asset condition. It is
conducted to evaluate the adequacy of corrosion protection system and to detect,
measure, and record any deterioration, anomalies or defects that affect the
structural integrity. It shall be conducted by skilled and qualified divers or/ and
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by means of ROV under the supervision of qualified personnel in accordance to

this procedure.
Wet Welding: Welding at ambient pressure with the welder/diver in the water
and with no mechanical barrier around the arc.
5 Inspection Strategy
5.1 Inspection Intervals
5.1.1 All subsea assets covered by this procedure shall have an approved EIS
with the inspection intervals specified in accordance with SAEP-20.
5.1.2 Inspection planning and scheduling shall be made by the responsible

OIU utilizing the corporate inspection program SAP-SAIF.
Commentary Note:
SAIF module is under development
5.1.3 In addition to underwater inspection surveys outlined in SAEP-20,

special surveys are required for:
5.1.3.1 Defects, modification, and repair monitoring
5.1.3.2 Post-event inspections
5.1.3.3 Inspection for reuse and demothballing of assets
5.1.4 Post-event inspections are conducted following a potential overload

event or incident (vessel impact, dropped objects, explosion) to evaluate
the asset structural condition. All post-event inspections shall be
developed and triggered based on an evaluation of the available data
including any event/incident reports.
5.2 Underwater Survey Inspection Types
5.2.1 Level I- General Visual Inspection
Level I survey consists of general underwater visual inspection by divers

or ROV to detect the presence of deterioration due to corrosion, scour,
seabed instability, debris, condition of appurtenances, and deformation
due to accidents. The survey should include the measurement of
cathodic protection potentials using divers or ROV. Removal of marine
growth is not required for conducting this type of inspection. Detection
of significant structural damage during a Level I survey shall become the
basis for the initiation of a Level II or III survey.
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5.2.2 Level II- Closed Visual Inspection
Level II survey consists of an underwater visual inspection of preselected

locations and/or based on results of the Level I survey, areas of known or
suspected damage. Such locations should be sufficiently cleaned of
marine growth to permit thorough inspection. Level II inspections may
also be included in scheduled/programmed inspection surveys.
5.2.3 Level III- Highly Detailed Inspection
Level III survey consists of underwater NDT based on the results of the
Level I or II survey areas of known or suspected damage. This level of
inspection is primarily designed to provide data that can be used to
perform a structural assessment and will often require the use of NDT
techniques. Level III inspections may also be included in
scheduled/programmed inspection surveys.
6 Instructions
6.1 Safety
6.1.1 All offshore work permits shall strictly follow the procedures and policies
specified in GI-0002.100 “Work Permit System”, MIM 1193.501 “Work
Permits,” and MIM 1201.007 “Marine Safe Working Practice”.
6.1.2 Diving operations shall be in compliance with MIM 1197.001,

“Procedures and Safety Rules for Diving Operations”.
6.2 Inspection Requirements
6.2.1 Submarine Pipelines
6.2.1.1 Complete pipe-to-water potential survey shall be done with the

underwater inspection survey or on a frequency not exceeding
the interval stipulated in SAEP-333. This can be either
performed by a certified diver or an ROV.
6.2.1.2 As part of the survey, anode depletion percentage shall be

estimated. The percentage of the depletion anode shall be
calculated for the anode with highest current output.
For subsequent survey, the same anodes shall be used to check
the anodes depletion rate.
6.2.1.3 Underwater general visual inspection shall be carried out to

ensure that the design requirements remain fulfilled and that no
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damage has occurred. The inspection shall identify as a

minimum the following:
 Free spans including mapping of length and height
 Condition of artificial supports (e.g., support bag) installed
to reduce free span
 Concrete weight coat damage; including
measurement/mapping of weight coat loss
 Mechanical damages to pipe, coatings or anodes
 Pipeline or power cables crossings
 Signs of leakage
 Debris in contact or in vicinity of pipeline
6.2.1.4 Pipeline systems that are temporarily out of service/mothballed

shall be classified as active lines within the inspection program
and will be subject to all periodic underwater inspection survey
requirements until they are removed, abandoned or
decommissioned in accordance to SAEP-76.
6.2.1.5 Submarine pipelines shall be subjected for T&I at intervals

specified in SAEP-20 using one or more of the methods
identified in that document.
6.2.2 Structures
6.2.2.1 Structural-to-water CP potential survey for off-shore fixed

structures and submarine pipelines shall be conducted as per
the frequency specified in SAEP-333. CP potential survey
locations and minimum number of readings shall be as per
SAEP-333.
6.2.2.2 General visual inspection shall be conducted for all subsurface

structures including piles, boat landing, fenders, pumps
caisson, secondary attachments and appurtenances to check for
overall integrity, any damages, deformation or any other
anomalies. Pipelines and power cables shall be inspected for a
total of one hundred (100) feet from the first subsea flange.
Removal of marine growth is not required for conducting GVI.
The following inspections shall be part of the General Visual
Inspection:
 A scour survey shall be conducted on platform bottom plan.
Page 10 of 21
The six (6) o’clock position of bottom braces member shall

be used as a fixed starting point/reference to measure the
scour depth. If the bottom braces are buried, the amount of
“silting-over” shall be measured.
 Risers and J-tubes shall be inspected for overall integrity
and clamps condition/presence
 Cathodic protection potentials survey
 UT thickness of the riser and the bottom elbow and of piles
on structures where piles are exposed
 Number, location and estimated depletion percentage of
galvanic anodes shall be recorded
6.2.2.3 A debris survey covering the seabed inside the structure and a
20 foot perimeter of the structure shall be performed as part of
the general visual inspection. A debris survey shall identify
and locate debris that potentially harmful to platform structural
integrity. Small debris items should be removed from contact
with the platform if they are metallic or if they obstruct
inspection activities. Large items that cannot be moved shall
be recorded. Debris presence may be an indicator of potential
mechanical damage. When large or heavy items of debris are
discovered, the structure above should be checked for
mechanical damage. Significant metallic debris in contact with
the structure has the potential to increase the load on the CP
system and should be cleared.
6.2.2.4 Indications of missing marine growth or coating abrasion may

be evidence of impact damage. Such indications shall be
closely investigated. Additionally, close attention shall be
given to platform nodes in the immediate vicinity of the
identified marine growth loss or coating anomaly to determine
if there are large cracks or visible distortion.
6.2.2.5 If damage is found during the general visual survey, a follow-

up survey shall be performed to obtain sufficient data for the
damage to be adequately evaluated. The survey shall clearly
identify the location and shall include dimensional
measurements such as dent size, member(s) out-of-straightness,
crack length(s) and corrosion pit(s) size. The survey shall be
extended to check for associated damage, for example, a
heavily dent member may have cracks at the member ends.
Page 11 of 21
6.2.2.6 All subsurface tubular bracing members and compartments

longer than five (5) feet shall be checked for flooding using
Flooded Member Detection device. FMD reading shall be
taken at six (6) o’clock position for horizontal member and at
lowest point for vertical and vertical diagonal members to
ensure no air interface is present to attenuate the ultrasonic
pulse signal. If flooded members are detected, Level III
inspection using MPI or ACFM shall be conducted on all node
attachments associated with the flooded members.
6.2.2.7 Marine growth thickness shall be recorded during the survey as

it may be used in future assessment studies.
6.2.2.8 Close Visual Inspection (level II) shall conducted based on the
results of Level I survey. Level II inspection is also
recommended to be conducted at nodal attachments/welds of
aging platforms (above 25 years), where 20% of
attachments/welds are covered by Level II inspection.
Inspection areas shall be selected based on the significance to
platform system capacity. The recommended areas of
inspection are leg to brace welds and the first welds in the legs
above mudline. Areas subjected to Level II inspection shall be
sufficiently cleaned of marine growth using hand tools or a
high pressure water jetting system to permit thorough
inspection. Weld/joint NDT and thickness measurement may
be used to complement the close visual inspection.
6.2.2.9 Applicable NDT methods should be used if the results from

Level I or Level II inspection indicate suspected damage.
Refer to paragraph 6.5.
6.2.2.10 Mothballed structures shall be classified as active structures

within the inspection program and will be subject to all
periodic underwater inspection survey requirements until they
are demolished or abandoned. Abandoned in-placed structure
shall be equipped with sufficient and adequate obstruction
marking light as per SAES-M-005 and SAES-B-009.
Abandoned in-placed structures are hazardous for navigations
and considerations shall be given to demolishing of the
structure if it has no future use.
6.3 Personnel Qualifications
The qualifications required of the individual performing the underwater

inspection are dependent on the complexity and severity of the structural
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conditions of the individual site, as well as the environment and conditions.

The following have been established as minimum qualifications for those
performing or responsible for an underwater inspection or repairs:
6.3.1 Above-water/ Structural-to-water CP potential survey shall be conducted

by qualified personnel according to SAEP-333 requirements.
6.3.2 Any diving operations including inspection related jobs shall be

performed only by qualified personnel holding a diving certificate such
as IMCA/HSE Part 1 certificate or an equivalent certificate of
competency that is acceptable by Saudi Aramco, Marine Department as
outlined in MIM 1197.001 “Procedures and Safety Rules for Diving
Operations.”
6.3.3 Underwater diver inspectors performing visual inspections (GVI and

CVI), taking UT and CP measurements, using video with oral
commentary and taking photographs shall be certified to CSWIP
Grade 3.1U.
6.3.4 Underwater MPI and weld grinding shall be performed by a qualified

diver certified to CSWIP Grade 3.2U.
6.3.5 Underwater inspections by means of ROV shall be performed by a

qualified personnel certified to CSWIP Grade 3.3U. The certified ROV
inspector shall record inspection data and items listed under paragraphs
6.2.13, 6.2.2.2, and Appendix A/B as applicable.
6.3.6 The on-board inspection coordinator who is in charge of developing

Diving Inspection Scope of Work and reporting shall be certified to
CSWIP Grade 3.4U.
6.3.7 Proponent organizations handling large numbers of subsea assets should

have a qualified personnel certified to CSWIP Grade 3.4U to perform
Quality Assurance, inspection planning and process the inspection
records and data produced by underwater inspection service providers.
6.3.8 All welders and welding operators shall be qualified in accordance with
AWS D3.6M and SAEP-323, as applicable.
6.3.9 Welders performing wet welding shall be qualified in accordance to

SAEP-1117.
6.3.10 Welders performing repairs on Monel sheathing/cladding shall be

qualified in accordance to SAEP-1104, SAEP-1105, SAEP-1108, or
SAEP-1116, as applicable.
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6.3.11 Divers performing Advanced NDT shall receive the required

training/certification to operate the NDT machine or shall be certified by
the equipment vendor.
6.4 Defects Evaluation and Repairs
6.4.1 When CP potential readings are less than the minimum potential
accepted by SAEP-333, the proponent origination shall investigate the
reason for low potentials. Low CP potential readings indicate that the
structure or the pipeline is not adequately protected by CP.
Possible reasons could be; anode depletion or major coating failure.
Remedial measures shall be identified and an appropriate course of
action taken. This may include installing additional anodes.
The additional anodes can be either clamped, welded or bolted to
structure/pipeline.
6.4.2 Normally, marine growth is conductive and will not shield the CP
current.
6.4.3 Coating maintenance and repairs for offshore splash shall be made in
accordance with SAES-H-004 requirements.
6.4.4 Concrete weight coat damage (cracked or detached) longer than 3 meters
shall be rectified by installing mattress(es) or shall be subjected to
further detailed evaluation and analysis by proponent engineering group
or CSD. Less than 3 meters isolated concrete weight coat
damages where the distance between each damage is 24 meters are
acceptable. Such isolated weight coat damages will not affect the global
on-bottom stability of the pipeline. This criteria is applicable for
pipelines located in water depth of less than 10 meters. For depths more
than 10 meters, SAEP-79 criteria shall be followed.
6.4.5 Free spans exceeding the maximum allowable free span length shall be
evaluated by CSD offshore engineering group prior to being corrected by
installing subsea supports such as grout bags. In cases where no data
about allowable free span length is available, free span limits tabulated in
Tables 1 and 2 can be used for liquid and gas/multiphase services
respectively. If free span lengths are found exceeding the applicable
value from Tables 1 or 2, then the free span shall be reported through
DN and Offshore Engineering Group of Consulting Services Department
shall be consulted for further assessment. If the evaluation conducted by
CSD offshore engineering group reveals that no repair is required to
rectify the identified free span/CWL damage, the need for shortening the
next inspection interval shall be evaluated by CSD and recommendations
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shall be provided accordingly. Free spans corrections shall not be

performed until approved by Consulting Services Department.
Table 1 - Allowable Free Span Length (in meters) for Liquid Services
Diameter
OD:(6-10) OD:(12-16) OD:(20-30) OD:(32-48)
Material Grade
X 52 3 8 9 11
X 60 4 9 11 13
X 65 6 10 15 20
Table 2 - Allowable Free Span Length (in meters) for Gas/Multi-Phase Services
Diameter
OD:(6-8) OD:(10-16) OD:(22-32) OD:(36-48)
Material Grade
X 52 3 5 9 13
X 60 3 7 10 15
X 65 4 9 11 16
6.4.6 The minimum separation required for crossing pipelines is 12 inches,

as per API RP 1111. For pipelines found in contact with other pipelines,
Offshore Engineering Group of Consulting Services Department shall be
consulted for further assessment.
6.4.7 Local scour deeper than 1.5 meter shall be reported to CSD for
evaluation. Sample of soil in the vicinity of sour shall be collected and
sent to CSD along with the scour depth. The scour depth shall be
measured from the last horizontal member.
6.4.8 Welds cracks in the structure shall be reported to CSD for further
evaluation through CRM request. Crack location, size and type (through
thickness or surface crack) are the required information to perform the
evaluation. A structural drawing or sketch showing the location of the
crack in the member/node and the location of the member/node shall also
be provided.
6.4.9 Offshore pipelines repairs shall be in according to SAEP-79. Areas with

high metal loss in submarine pipelines can be rectified by installing
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PLIDCO sleeves or smart flanges. For other repair methods, CSD shall
be consulted. Installed PLIDCO sleeve shall be equipped with sacrificial
anodes in accordance to AD-036763 “Offshore PLIDCO Sleeve Anode”.
6.4.10 Welding repairs shall be made using WPS approved by CSD. Repairs of
damages in Monel cladding at splash zone can be made by already
approved welding procedures available with CSD. Areas of repairs shall
be testing using dye penetrant inspection.
6.4.11 Wet welding repairs is limited only to Class B welds of structures as

defined in AWS D3.6M.
6.4.12 Cracked or damaged members/legs/nodes shall be repaired using the

repair method deemed appropriate for the identified defect such as
installing sleeve/clamp after CSD evaluation.
6.4.13 Concrete evaluation, repairs, and rehabilitation should follow

SAES-Q-001 and ACI 546.2R “Guide to Underwater Repair of
Concrete”.
6.4.14 Other structural damage such as excessive dents and out member out-of-
straightness shall be measured and reported to CSD for evaluation.
6.4.15 List of recommended international standards that can be used to evaluate

different damages is provided in Table 3.
Table 3 - Recommended International Standards

for Pipelines Defects Evaluation
Damage/Anomaly Code / Standard
Metal loss DNV-RP-F101 and ASME B31.G
Dent DNV-OS-F101
Free span DNV-RP-F105
Coating damage DNV-RP-F102 and SAES-H-004
Anode damage DNV-RP-F103 and SAEP-333
On-bottom stability DNV-RP-F109
6.4.16 Defects that require repair shall be photographed. A video or

photographic survey of any repairs shall be taken after defects
rectification and provided to Saudi Aramco.
6.4.17 Power cables crossing submarine pipelines shall be reported to Power

Operations Department for evaluation, providing recommendation and
taking required actions.
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6.5 Non-destructive Testing
6.5.1 MPI can be applied to indicate any non-visible surface indication. MPI
cannot be used to measure the depth of a crack. When MPI to be
performed, the surface shall be cleaned to SA 2½ using low pressure grit
entrainment.
6.5.2 ACFM can be used for detection and sizing of surface breaking cracks in
metallic components and welds. ACFM inspection can be performed
through paint and coatings; hence, it is considered to be a faster and
more economic technique.
6.5.3 Corrosion mapping, defect sizing and verification of anomalies detected

by ILI conducted on submarine pipelines may be done using P-Scan.
A P-Scan machine is available with Inspection Department and the
service can be requested through SAIF or CRM. Application of P-scan
requires weight coat and coating removal.
6.5.4 Consult Inspection Technology Unit of Inspection Department for more

details about approved Advanced NDT technologies and to get the list of
technologies available for non-scrapable pipelines.
6.6 Reporting and Records
6.6.1 Reporting of identified defects shall be through DN in SAP-SAIF.
6.6.2 Inspection records and files shall be maintained according to 00-SAIP-78.
6.6.3 Pre-T&I and Post T&I reporting shall be made according to SAEP-1161.
6.6.4 Subsea assets shall have a permanent and progressive set of records
maintained for the entire asset life time. This includes:
6.6.4.1 In-service inspections extent, results, and conclusions

6.6.4.2 Accidental events and damages to the assets
6.6.4.3 Intervention, repair, and modifications records
6.6.4.5 All necessary drawings and IS
6.6.5 In case of welding repairs, records shall be kept for qualifications of all
welders/welding operators, WPS qualifications, or other tests that are
made.
6.6.6 A video or photographic survey, where items of damage are found, shall
be recorded and submitted to Saudi Aramco.
Page 17 of 21
7 Responsibilities
7.1 Area Operations Foreman
7.1.1 Ensures that subsea assets are inspected as per the approved EIS.
7.1.2 Notifies inspector of any operations upset relating to subsea assets during
OME meeting.
7.1.3 Report overload event or incident (vessel impact, dropped objects,

explosion) to OIU.
7.2 Maintenance Area Foreman/Supervisor
Create work order to repair defects reported by Inspection Unit.
7.3 Operations Inspection Unit Supervisor
7.3.1 Administer inspection planning and scheduling of subsea assets utilizing

the corporate inspection program SAP-SAIF.
7.3.2 Allocate sufficient manpower and resources to cover required inspection

activities.
7.3.3 Coordinate with ITU for any technical advice required pertaining to
these inspections and for review and approval in case a new technology
proposal is not covered under this procedure.
7.3.4 Ensure defect notification(s) are issued to rectify reported deficiencies.
7.3.5 Ensure that all inspection records are maintained in according to this
SAIP.
7.4 OIU Inspector
7.4.1 Ensure that planned inspections/surveys are conducted.
7.4.2 Review inspection reports submitted by the Inspection Service Provider.
7.4.3 Report all identified defects to operations foremen and issue DN.
7.4.4 Maintain all inspection records as specified in this SAIP.
7.5 Inspection Service Provider
7.5.1 Provide qualified personnel and proper tools to perform the inspections
in according to this SAIP.
Page 18 of 21
7.5.2 Conduct inspection/surveys as stipulated in this SAIP including GVI,

CVI, and NDT as required.
7.5.3 Submit detailed inspection report fulfilling the requirements of this SAIP
to Saudi Aramco.
7.6 Technical Support Unit/Plant Specialist Unit
7.6.1 Develops and obtains approval for revalidation hydrotests if needed.
7.6.2 Provide technical support as needed to rectify deficiencies or coordinate

with CSD for issues which require their involvement or consultant.
7.7 Project Management

7.7.1 Conduct a baseline survey for newly built offshore pipelines and
platforms to determine as-installed condition and initiate inspection
records.
7.7.2 Ensure that the baseline survey records, vendor reports and data
compiled from that survey are submitted to the proponent
organization/OIU as part of project records per SAEP-122.
7.8 Inspection Technology Unit
7.8.1 Provide technical support to OIUs in review of selected inspection

technologies and proposals.
7.8.2 Support OIUs in identification of service providers for specialized

inspection technologies.
7.8.3 Review any new inspection technology proposals.
7.9 Consulting Services Department
Evaluate defects if required and provide recommendations.
Revision Summary
10 March 2016 New Saudi Aramco Inspection Procedure that specifies the minimum requirements for
inspection of subsea assets owned and operated by Saudi Aramco operating facilities.
It applies to static subsea assets including submarine pipelines, offshore platforms, free
standing conductors, and other submerged structures.
24 March 2016 Minor revision to add power cable crossing to inspection requirements, clarify evaluation
criteria for some defects (e.g., free span limit for multi-phase services) and make editorial
changes.
16 May 2018 Minor revision to align requirements with recently published engineering procedures
SAEP-76 and SAEP-79.
Page 19 of 21
Appendix A - Structure Inspection Checklist
Structure
Inspection Unit Description Checklist
Off-Shore Structure
Plant No. Inspection Date
Equipment No. Last Inspection Date
# ITEM Yes No N/A COMMENTS
Depth (m): , ,
1 No scour or seabed instability is found.
Leg #: , ,
2 No flooded members are found # of Flooded members:
Maximum Anode Depletion:
3 Corrosion cathodic protection system is acceptable Min CP Potential :
Max CP Potential :
4 CP cables are in good condition and anodes are secured
5 Construction joints (weld, construction joints) are in good condition
6 Splash zone of structure is in good condition
7 Monel cladding seal is in good condition
8 Monel cladding sheets are in good condition
No mechanical damage (e.g., crack, collision, deformation, dents…etc.) is
9
found
10 No harmful debris are found
Structure members are in good condition and no missing or separated
11
members
Bolted connection(s) and clamp (s) of risers, J-tubes, are secure and in good
12
condition
Check below if applicable:
 Isolated coating failure
 Widespread coating failure
Risers and conductors are in good condition and without coating failure and
13  General corrosion
signs of corrosion or leakage
 Isolated pitting
 Widespread pitting
 Signs of leaks
14 Areas of marine growth Thickness (mm):
15 Previous area of repairs are in good condition
subsurface structures including piles, boat landing, fenders, pumps caisson,
16
secondary attachments and appurtenances are in good condition
17 Results of General visual inspection are acceptable
Closed visual inspection is conducted for selected nodes and no
18
damage/cracks are found
Page 20 of 21
Appendix B - Pipelines Inspection Checklist
Pipeline
Inspection Unit Description Checklist
Submarine Pipeline
Plant No. Inspection Date
Pipeline No. Last Inspection Date
# ITEM Yes No N/A COMMENTS
1 No Free span is found Fill table below
2 Artificial supports installed to reduce free span are in good condition No. of artificial supports:
Maximum Anode Depletion:
3 Corrosion cathodic protection system is acceptable Min CP Potential :
Max CP Potential :
4 CP cables are in good condition and anodes are secured
5 No excessive pipe movements including expansion effects
6 Integrity of mechanical connections and flanges are good
Location (KP):
Type (longitudinal cracks,
7 No weight coat damage
de-lamination or WC loss):
Length:
8 No mechanical damage (e.g., crack, collision, deformation, dents…etc.) is found
No major debris on, or close to, the pipeline that may cause damage to the
9
pipeline or the external corrosion protection system
Check below if applicable:
 Isolated coating failure
 Widespread coating failure
Pipelines are in good condition and without coating failure and signs of corrosion
10  General corrosion
or leakage
 Isolated pitting
 Widespread pitting
 Signs of leaks
Distance between
11 No Pipeline crossings
Pipelines (in):
12 No power cables crossings (in-contact) Location (KP):
13 Previous repairs are in good condition
14 Results of General visual inspection are acceptable
Closed visual inspection is conducted for selected pipelines segments and no
15
damage/cracks were found
Free span Free span Free span Free span

Event No. Remarks
Start (KP) End (KP) Length (m) Height (m)
Page 21 of 21

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Inspection Procedure

00-SAIP-11 16 May 2018

Appendix A - Structure Inspection Checklist .......... 20

Previous Issue: 24 March 2016 Next Planned Update: TBD

©Saudi Aramco 2018. All rights reserved.

The following are excluded from this procedure:

1.3.3 Subsea assets owned or operated by Marine Department or Contractors.

2.1 The purpose of this procedure is to provide inspection guidelines to aid in

3.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures

SAEP-76 Decommissioning of Offshore Pipelines

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

Saudi Aramco Standard Drawing

Saudi Aramco General Instructions (GIs)

Saudi Aramco Best Practice

Saudi Aramco Engineering Report

Saudi Aramco Inspection Procedure

Saudi Aramco Marine Instruction Manual (MIM)

3.2 Industry Codes and Standards

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

American Welding Society

American Petroleum Institute

American Concrete Institute

DET NORSKE VERITAS

4 Abbreviations and Definitions

IMCA International Marine Contractors Association

Diver Inspector: A qualified personnel who performs subsea inspections and

Repair: All work necessary to restore an asset to a condition deemed fit-for-

Integrity: Means soundness - i.e., free from flaws or defects.

Manned Platform: A platform where operating or maintenance personnel are

Marine Growth: Living organisms attached to an offshore structure.

Other Structures: It includes structures other than manned and unmanned

Seabed: Materials below the sea in which a structure is founded, whether of

Unmanned Platform: A platform which does not meet manned platform

Scour: Removal of seabed soils caused by currents and waves.

Underwater Inspection Survey: Underwater Inspection Survey is conducted

by means of ROV under the supervision of qualified personnel in accordance to

5.1 Inspection Intervals

5.1.2 Inspection planning and scheduling shall be made by the responsible

SAIF module is under development

5.1.3 In addition to underwater inspection surveys outlined in SAEP-20,

5.1.3.1 Defects, modification, and repair monitoring

5.1.3.2 Post-event inspections

5.1.3.3 Inspection for reuse and demothballing of assets

5.1.4 Post-event inspections are conducted following a potential overload

5.2 Underwater Survey Inspection Types

5.2.1 Level I- General Visual Inspection

Level I survey consists of general underwater visual inspection by divers

5.2.2 Level II- Closed Visual Inspection

Level II survey consists of an underwater visual inspection of preselected

5.2.3 Level III- Highly Detailed Inspection

6.1.2 Diving operations shall be in compliance with MIM 1197.001,

6.2 Inspection Requirements

6.2.1 Submarine Pipelines

6.2.1.1 Complete pipe-to-water potential survey shall be done with the

6.2.1.2 As part of the survey, anode depletion percentage shall be

6.2.1.3 Underwater general visual inspection shall be carried out to

damage has occurred. The inspection shall identify as a

6.2.1.4 Pipeline systems that are temporarily out of service/mothballed

6.2.1.5 Submarine pipelines shall be subjected for T&I at intervals

6.2.2.1 Structural-to-water CP potential survey for off-shore fixed

6.2.2.2 General visual inspection shall be conducted for all subsurface

The six (6) o’clock position of bottom braces member shall