International Institution of

g~&Manage~
Safety Recommendations Founded 1863
IGE/SR/18 Edition 2 Royal Charter 1929
Communication 1678 Patron
Her Majesty The Queen

Safe working practices to ensure the

integrity of gas pipelines and associated
installations

Price Code: T2
© The Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers
12 York Gate
London NW1 4QG
Tel: 020 74870650
Fax: 020 7224 476
Email: general@igem.org.uk
IGEjSR/18 Edition 2

CONTENTS

SECTION
PAGE

1 I ntrod uction 1

2 Scope 3

3 Legislation 4

4 Working in the vicinity of gas plant 5

• 4.1 Duties prior to work commencing 5

4.1.1 Consu Itation 5
4.1.2 Notifications 5
4.1.3 Records 6
4.1.4 Management of third party enquiries
(all work) 6
4.1.5 Classification of works (work in a public
highway) 7
4.1.6 Monitoring and control (all work) 7
4.1.7 Location of gas plant (all work) 8
4.1.8 Excavations 8
• 4.2 Activities - work in the public highway 8
4.2.1 General 8
4.2.2 Demolition 9
4.2.3 Cathodic protection 9
4.2.4 Pressure testing 9
4.2.5 Pipe splitting 9
4.2.6 Hot works 10
4.2.7 Work in proximity to a pipeline of MOP exceeding
7 bar 10
4.2.8 Work in proximity to a pipeline of MOP not
exceeding 7 bar 11
4.2.9 Work in proximity to an associated gas installation,
for example a PRI 11
4.2.10 Action in the case of damage to a pipeline 11
• 4.3 Activities - work in easements and private land 12
4.3.1 Excavation in proximity of gas plant 12
4.3.2 Crossing over a pipeline 12
4.3.3 Crossing below a pipeline 13
4.3.4 Positioning of evacuating equipment 13
4.3.5 Cathodic protection 13
4.3.6 Piling and boring 13
4.3.7 Blasting 14
4.3.8 Deep mining 14
4.3.9 Surface mineral extraction 14
4.3.10 Demolition 15
4.3.11 Pressure testing 15
4.3.12 Pipe splitting 15
4.3.13 Hot works 15
4.3.14 Increase of cover 16
4.3.15 Landfilling 16
4.3.16 Backfilling 16
4.3.17 Construction traffic 16

• 4.4 Reporting encroachment 16

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IGEjSRj18 Edition 2

• 4.5 Action in the case of damage to a pipeline 16

APPENDIX

1 Glossary and acronyms 18

2 References 19

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SECTION 1 : INTRODUCTION
1.1 These Recommendations supersede IGE/SR/18 Part 1 and IGE/SR/18 Part 2
(respectively Communications 1447 and 1599). They combine the scopes of the
former Parts 1 and 2.

1.2 These Recommendations have been drafted by a Panel appointed by the

Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers' (IGEM's) Safety and Environment
Committee, were subsequently approved by that Committee and were published
by the authority of the Council of the Institution.

1.3 These Recommendations provide guidance on safe working practices in the

vicinity of gas pipelines and associated gas installations (hereafter referred to as
gas plant).

The Recommendations include advice for both the operator/owner of the

respective gas plant (hereafter referred to as the operator) and for the
promoter/contractor responsible for the work (hereafter referred to as the
promoter).

Usually, work will be carried out with respect to a service other than gas plant,
for example water pipes, but may on occasion be with respect to another item
of gas plant.

The Recommendations are intended to ensure the continued integrity of gas

plant.

1.4 It is now widely accepted that the majority of accidents in industry are in some
measure attributable to human as well as technical factors in the sense that
actions by people initiated or contributed to the accidents, or people might have
acted better to avert them.

It is therefore necessary to give proper consideration to the management of

these human factors and the control risk. To assist in this, it is recommended
that due cognisance be taken of HS(G)48.

The primary responsibility for compliance with legal duties rests with the
employer. The fact that certain employees, for example "responsible
engineers", are allowed to exercise their professional judgement does not allow
employers to abrogate their primary responsibilities. Employers must:

(a) Have done everything to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that

there are no better protective measures that can be taken other than
relying on the exercise of professional judgement by "responsible
engineers".

(b) Have done everything to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that

"responsible engineers" have the skills, training, experience and personal
qualities necessary for the proper exercise of professional judgement.

(c) Have systems and procedures in place to ensure that the exercise of
professional judgement by "responsible engineers" is subject to
appropriate monitoring and review.

(d) Not require "responsible engineers" to undertake tasks which would

necessitate the exercise of professional judgement that is beyond their
competence. There should be written procedures defining the extent to
which "responsible engineers" can exercise their judgement. When
"responsible engineers" are asked to undertake tasks that deviate from
this, they should refer the matter for higher review.

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Note: The responsible engineer is a suitably qualified, competent and experienced engineer or a
suitably qualified, competent and experienced person acting under his or her supervision,
appointed to be responsible for the application of all or part of these Recommendations.

1.5 These Recommendations do not attempt to make the use of any method or
specification obligatory against the judgement of the responsible engineer.
Where new and better techniques are developed and proved, they should be
adopted without waiting for modification of these Recommendations.
Amendments to these Recommendations will be issued when necessary and
their publication will be announced in the Journal of the Institution and other
publications as appropriate.

1.6 Requests for interpretation of these Recommendations in relation to matters

within their scope, but not precisely covered by the current text, should be
addressed to Technical Services, IGEM, 12 York Gate, London NW1 4QG email:
technical@igem.org.uk and will be submitted to the relevant Committee for
consideration and advice, but in the context that the final responsibility is that of
the engineer concerned. If any advice is given by or on behalf of IGEM, this
does not relieve the responsible engineer of any of his or her obligations.

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SECTION 2 : SCOPE

2.1 These Recommendations outline management procedures and safety

precautions affecting the design, construction, maintenance and demolition of
services, structures and other works in the vicinity of gas plant.

Note: HS(G)47 provides guidance on avoiding danger from underground services.

2.2 These Recommendations cover work in the vicinity of gas plant in easements,
under highways and on private land.

2.3 These Recommendations apply to gas plant of all materials and at any
maximum operating pressure (MOP).

2.4 These Recommendations do not cover emergency work or normal agricultural

work but the recommendations may be considered and observed as far as
possible.

2.5 All pressures are gauge pressures unless otherwise stated.

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SECTION 3 : LEGISLATION
These Recommendations are set out against a background of legislation in force in Great
Britain at the time of publication. Similar legal considerations are likely to apply in other
countries and reference to appropriate national legislation will be necessary.

The following legal publications are particularly relevant in Great Britain:

• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act (HASAWA)

HASAWA applies to all work activities. It places general duties on employers to ensure,
as far as is reasonably practical, the health, safety and welfare of their employees and
the health and safety of members of the public who may be affected by the activity,
are safeguarded.

• New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA)

NRSWA lays down standards of service and performance for all utilities in the execution
of their statutory rights to excavate within the public highway.

A thorough knowledge of NRSWA provisions should be attained before commencing any

work in public highways.

• Pipelines Safety Regulations (PSR)

PSR require that no person shall cause damage to a pipeline which may give rise to
danger and that the pipeline operator must inform persons of the existence and
whereabouts of a pipeline.

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SECTION 4 : WORKING IN THE VICINITY OF GAS PLANT

This section provides gUidance on steps to be taken when work is to be carried out in the
vicinity of gas plant, irrespective of the location of the plant. Measures vary on occasion with
respect to notifications and contractor activities, dependent upon whether the work is being
carried out under NRSWA or whether the pipeline is in an easement.

4.1 DUTIES PRIOR TO WORK COMMENCING

4.1.1 Consultation

4.1.1.1 Contact should be made with any affected party, by the promoter at the
planning stage, to avoid interference and possible delays. Where appropriate,
consideration should be given to diverting any affected pipeline in advance of
starting work.

4.1.1.2 The operator should have in place a system to ensure that any interested
promoter or contractor can be made aware of the location of any gas plant in
the vicinity of works, and the protection measures required, prior to starting
work.

4.1.1.3 The operator should consider providing frequent promoters, for example
statutory undertakers and highways authorities, with information on the location
of gas plant on CD-ROM or similar format.

Where such information is not given, the operator should respond to any
notification of works as soon as practicable after the works have been classified
(see clause 4.1.5).

The response should include details of classification, location and requirements

for protection.

4.1.1.4 The contractor should be provided with contact telephone numbers and the gas
emergency telephone number.

4.1.1.5 Notes of any meetings and telephone conversations should be taken and
recorded. All relevant decisions taken should be confirmed and agreed in
writing.

4.1.1.6 Alterations to planned works and working practices should be reviewed in light
of current site conditions.

4.1.2 Notifications

4.1.2.1 Work in the public highway

Where work is to be carried out by highways authorities or statutory

undertakers, for example other gas, water, electric and cable companies,
information exchange must comply with NRSWA, the Street Works (Register,
Notices, Directions, Designations) Regulations, the Road Works (Register,
Notices, Directions and Designations) (Scotland) Regulations and any other
applicable national legislation.

Note 1: Practical guidance on compliance is presented in the "Code of Practice for the Co-ordination
of Street Works for Road Purposes and Related Matters".

Note 2: Many excavations are carried out where notices may not have been given to other utilities.
This may be a result of the works being carried out by a non-statutory body working in the
highway, such as a utility infrastructure provider (VIP) or a private developer making, for
example, a sewerage connection. Highways authorities grant street works licences to
undertake street works and, hence, NRSWA will apply.

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4.1.2.2 Work in easements and private land

Where work is to be carried out by non-statutory bodies, information excha nge

should comply with the principles of clause 4.1.1.

4.1.3 Records

4.1.3.1 Work in the public highway

Where works are notified to the operator, a manual or computer-based register

should be maintained by the operator to show:
• a unique reference for each entry
• segregation of notifications according to classification (see clause 4.1.5)
• the scheduling of inspection visits.

If works have not started by the expiry date of the notification, the
promoter/contractor should be contacted.

4.1.3.2 Work in easements and private land

Records should be maintained by the operator using the principles outlined in

clause 4.1.3.1. In any event, a record of all details of enqUiries should be
maintained. This record should include telephone enquiries and responses.

4.1.4 Management of third party enquiries (all work)

4.1.4.1 Deposition of plans

Local authority planning departments should be prOVided with suitable scaled

maps (not less than 1: 10,000), strips maps or electronically stored maps
showing the location of gas plant and pipeline routes. These maps, or suitable
supporting information, should identify the areas alongside gas plant where
building development may have an adverse effect on its operation.

4.1.4.2 Planning applications and enquiries

Local authority planning departments should be requested to prOVide

information on planning applications within the areas marked on deposited
plans.

4.1.4.3 Developer/contractor/utility/planning enquiries

In general, each enqUiry should receive a response in writing within 15 working

days. The response should make the enquirer aware of the location of the gas
plant and the need for it to be located on site prior to any work commencing.
Safety requirements (including building proximity reqUirements), a specific
contact name and telephone number of the operator and details of the working
practices to be adopted should be prOVided.

Third parties should be prOVided with a contact telephone number and

emergency telephone number.

4.1.4.4 Landowner/tenantenqulf~s

In general, each enqUiry should receive a response in writing within 15 working

days. The response should make the enquirer aware of the need for the gas
plant to be located on site prior to any work commencing and the name and
telephone number of the operator's responsible engineer.

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A visit should be made to the landowner or tenant, if requested.

Responses to land purchase enquiries should identify the gas plant name, MOP,
any easement width and building development recommendations.

4.1.5 Classification of works (work in a public highway)

4.1.5.1 Works should be classified according to the degree of risk involved. A risk
assessment should be carried out for each activity.

Note: The assessment needs to include the location of gas plant, its MOP, proximity to property
and the working methods being adopted.

4.1.5.2 Works undertaken where the probability of damage is high and where the
consequences are hazardous should be identified as higher risk.

Until the gas plant is accurately located on site, all works should be considered
as higher risk works.

Note: Pipelines of MOP exceeding 7 bar are subject to special consideration (see Section 5).

Works undertaken where the probability of damage is low and where the
consequences are not hazardous should be identified as lower risk.

4.1.5.3 Following classification, any specific protective measures should be identified

and notified to the contractor.

4.1.5.4 For any discovered non-notified works found by the operator or where notified
works involve a change of activity compared to those initially notified, the works
should be classified or re-c1assified, as appropriate. If work is ongoing and a full
assessment cannot readily be carried out, consideration should be given to
stopping work until a proper evaluation can be completed.

Any discovered non-notified works should be followed up with the contractor.

4.1.6 Monitoring and control (all work)

4.1.6.1 Arrangements should be made for appropriate and scheduled inspection. The
level and frequency of inspection for each location should be scheduled taking
into consideration the type of work being undertaken and planned so that all
critical phases of the works are observed.

4.1.6.2 Consideration should be given to full time supervision at higher risk works (see
clause 4.1.5).

4.1.6.3 The operator should ensure that all protective measures, agreed with the
promoter/contractor, are in place.

If agreed protection measures have not been undertaken, the operator may
suspend work until such measures are applied. Such suspension should be
confirmed in writing.

4.1.6.4 The operator should make an individual record of each inspection visit. When
gas plant is exposed, details of its size, location, material and condition should
be recorded.

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4.1.7 Location of gas plant (all work)

4.1.7.1 Where a request has been received from the contractor, the location of any gas
plant in the vicinity of the work should be determined by the operator and the
promoter/contractor should be advised within 7 days.

Route maps and gas plant records should be consulted to establish the presence
of any fittings or attachments on the gas plant at the location of the proposed
works.

Prior to site work commencing, the gas plant should be located by the operator
or by the contractor with prior agreement. For a steel pipeline, this should be
carried out using a locator with a pipe depth measurement accuracy of 5% of
depth for cover up to 5 m. For other metallic pipelines or PE pipelines
containing a metallic location strip, a suitable locating instrument should be
used.

4.1.7.2 If a pipeline cannot be located by instrument, trial holes should be taken.

Any requirement for trial holes to locate a pipeline, or to determine levels at

crossing points, should be determined on site and supervised by the operator.

When determining whether trial holes are required, and if so how many, the
operator should consider the need to prove the location and depth of a pipeline
based on information available from the pipeline records, site conditions,
recorded depth of cover, the proposed depth of the promoter's/contractor's
service and its construction method statement.

Note: These factors should be sufficient to enable assessment of the risk of damage to the
pipeline and, hence, the need for a trial hole.

If trial holing is to be carried out, the operator should be given the opportunity
to supervise the activity.

4.1.7.3 Where it is decided not to trial hole to locate a pipeline, hand dug trial holes
should be excavated to a depth of 600 mm below the depth of any proposed
new promoter's/contractor's service to prove adequate clearance.

4.1.7.4 Once located, the gas plant should be pegged out, or suitably marked, at
suitable intervals. A peg, or mark, should be positioned at the apex of every
bend, including field bends. There should not be any bend between pegs or
marks.

4.1.7.5 Previously agreed working practices should be reviewed based on actual site
conditions. This may be carried out at any time during the work.

4.1.8 Excavations (all work)

4.1.8.1 Any risk to gas plant should be considered and, if deemed appropriate, the
operator should be present to monitor the excavation work.

4.1.8.2 Any reported damage to PE pipes should be assessed by the operator to

determine whether replacement is required.

4.2 ACTIVITIES - WORK IN THE PUBLIC HIGHWAY

4.2.1 General

4.2.1.1 The general guidance in HS(G)47 should be followed.

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4.2.1.2 Heavy construction plant and materials should not be permitted to cross over
gas plant unless appropriate provisions, such as timber, concrete or steel rafts,
have been agreed.

4.2.2 Demolition

4.2.2.1 Demolition should not be allowed within 150 m of gas plant, or 400 m for a
structure mass greater than 10000 tonnes, without an assessment of the
vibration levels at the plant. The measured distance extends from the edge of
the area affected by falling material to the plant.

Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 40 mm sec- i , an

assessment of pipeline stress state, which includes the incremental load due to
vibration, should be carried out. The vibration loads should be considered as
additional to all other relevant and transient loads affecting the pipeline. In
addition, an assessment of cyclic loading should be carried out.

Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 30 mm sec- i , the ground
vibration should be monitored (see also clause 4.2.2.2).

4.2.2.2 For a welded steel or PE pipeline, the peak particle velocity should not exceed
75 mm sec- i at the pipeline.

Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 50 mm sec- i , the ground
vibration should monitored.

4.2.2.3 For a cast iron or ductile iron pipeline, the peak particle velocity should not
exceed 25 mm sec- i at the pipeline. A leakage survey should be undertaken
before work starts and at appropriate intervals during the work.

4.2.2.4 Where ground conditions comprise submerged granular deposits of silt or sand,
an assessment of the effect of vibration on settlement and liquefaction at the
pipeline should be made.

4.2.3 Cathodic protection

4.2.3.1 Where the new service is cathodically protected and the gas plant is similarly
protected, the pipeline operator should request that interference tests be carried
out to determine whether its own system is adversely affected.

4.2.3.2 Should any cathodic protection posts or associated equipment need moving to
facilitate third party works, reasonable notice should be given to the operator.

4.2.4 Pressure testing

Pressure testing should not be permitted within 8 m of a pipeline unless suitable

precautions have been taken against the effects of a pipe failure. These
precautions should include the limiting of the design factor of the new pipeline
to 0.3 for a distance of 6 m either side of the original pipeline, or the use of pre-
tested pipe or sleeving.

4.2.5 Pipe splitting

If a pipeline is to be replaced using pipe splitting techniques, each crossing of a

pipeline should be exposed to ascertain the clearance between them. If there is
deemed to be sufficient clearance to allow the work to continue, each crossing
should be manned during the splitting operation to watch the splitter pass. If
there is any likelihood of damage to the pipeline, the operation should be
stopped immediately.

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4.2.6 Hot works

When the operator's gas plant has been exposed, welding or other hot works on
the contractor's service, involving naked flames, should not be carried out in
proximity to the plant unless suitable protection has been agreed and provided.
Gas leak checks should be undertaken, by the operator, before and during such
operations.

Hot working should not take place within 500 mm of a PE pipeline.

4.2.7 Work in proximity to a pipeline of MOP exceeding 7 bar

4.2.7.1 Removal of bituminous or concrete highway surface layer by mechanical means

should be restricted to a depth of 300 mm.

The use of chain trenchers should not be permitted within 3 m of the pipeline.

The operator should consider the risk any work may have on the integrity of the
pipeline and, hence, determine the level of monitoring that is required to be
carried out by the operator.

4.2.7.2 Removal of the bituminous or concrete highway surface layer below 300 mm
deep should be by hand-held power assisted tools under the supervision of the
operator's responsible person unless, in exceptional circumstances, and
following a risk assessment, the operator relaxes these conditions.

4.2.7.3 Excavation with a powered mechanical excavator should not be carried out
closer than 3 m to a located pipeline and, with hand-held power assisted tools,
no closer than 1.5 m. Any fitting, attachment or connecting pipework should be
exposed by hand. All other excavation should be by hand.

Consideration may be given to a relaxation of these limits by agreement with

the operator and while the operator remains on site.

4.2.7.4 "No dig" techniques should not be used to cross a pipeline, unless it has been
exposed to ena ble the safe passage of the new service to be observed.

4.2.7.5 Any new service running parallel to a pipeline should be laid no closer than
600 mm.

4.2.7.6 Where a new service is to cross above or below a pipeline, a clearance of

600 mm should be maintained.

4.2.7.7 Whenever a pipeline is exposed, it should be protected by matting and timber

cladding. The exposed pipeline should be suitably supported. Where lengths
greater than 5 m are to be exposed and unsupported, the promoter/contractor
should discuss with the operator the need to undertake a stress analysis to
determine support requirements. All temporary supports should be removed
prior to backfill.

4.2.7.8 Contractors should give operators at least 48 hours of intent to backfill over,
under or alongside a pipeline. Any damage to the pipeline coating should be
reported immediately to the operator so that repairs can be made prior to
backfilling.

4.2.7.9 All reinstatement materials and techniques must comply to NRSWA.

4.2.7.10 A pipeline should not be encased in concrete.

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4.2.8 Work in proximity to a pipeline of MOP not exceeding 7 bar

4.2.8.1 Hand dug trial holes should be undertaken to determine the exact location of
pipeline. All excavations within 500 mm of the pipeline should be by hand.

4.2.8.2 Where a new service crosses above or below a pipeline, or runs parallel, a
clearance of 1.5 times the diameter of the pipeline or 300 mm, whichever is the
greater, should be maintained.

Note: This distance may be reduced at the discretion of the operator and subject to adequate
protection being provided.

4.2.8.3 The effects of deep excavations around and below a pipeline should be
considered in conjunction with the pipe material and MOP.

4.2.8.4 All protection requirements should be considered before work commences on

site and then reviewed during site operations.

4.2.8.5 Any scoring or marking of PE pipes should be reported to the operator who
should assess any damage to determine if replacement is required.

4.2.8.6 Work in proximity to a ductile iron pipeline should be reported to the operator
who should assess any damage to determine if replacement is required.

4.2.8.7 Care should be taken to ensure that any cast iron pipeline is SUitably protected
and supported during works (due to the susceptibility of the material to
fracture).

4.2.8.8 Extreme care should be taken when working in close proximity to any asbestos
or PVC pipeline (due to the susceptibility of the materials to fracture). It is
imperative that these are satisfactorily protected and supported.

4.2.8.9 All reinstatement materials and techniques must comply with NRSWA.

4.2.8.10 A pipeline should not be encased in concrete.

4.2.8.11 All unidentified or redundant plant should be considered live until proven
otherwise.

4.2.9 Work in proximity to an associated gas installation, for example a PRI

4.2.9.1 Where excavations are to be made within 10 m of the perimeter of an

associated gas installation, appropriate protection methods should be
determined and recorded by the operator.

4.2.9.2 Access to the gas plant should be maintained at all times.

4.2.10 Action in the case of damage to a pipeline

If a pipeline is damaged, even slightly, the following precautions should be

taken immediately:
• shut down all plant and machinery and extingUish any potential sources of
ignition
• evacuate all personnel from the vicinity of the damage
• notify the operator immediately using the contact telephone number
provided or by using the gas emergency number
• ensure no one approaches the pipeline

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• provide assistance as requested by the operator, or emergency services, to

safeguard persons or property
• ensure no attempt is made to try to stop any leaking gas .

4.3 ACTIVITIES - WORK IN EASEMENTS AND PRIVATE LAND

4.3.1 Excavation in proximity of gas plant

4.3.1.1 Excavation with a powered mechanical excavator should not be carried out
closer than 3 m to a located pipeline and, with hand-held power-assisted tools,
no closer than 1.5 m. Any fitting, attachment or connecting pipework should be
exposed by hand. All other excavation should be by hand.

Consideration may be given to a relaxation of these limits by agreement with

the operator.

When relaxation is applied, a powered mechanical excavator should not be

allowed to excavate closer than 600 mm to the nearest part of the pipeline.
This should only be undertaken while the operator's responsible person remains
on site.

Where sufficient depth of cover exists following evidence from hand dug trial
holes, light, tracked vehicles may be permitted by the operator to strip topsoil
to a depth of 250 mm.

4.3.1.2 Topsoil or other materials should not be stored within the easement without the
written permission of the operator. Topsoil or other materials should not be
stored over the pipeline.

4.3.1.3 Fires should not be allowed in an easement strip or close to above-ground

installations.

4.3.1.4 Following works, the level of cover over a pipeline should be the same as that
prior to works commencing, unless agreed otherwise with the operator.

4.3.1.5 A new service should not be laid parallel to a pipeline, within an easement. In
special circumstances, and with the written permission of the operator, this may
be relaxed for short excursions in which case the service should be laid no closer
than 600 mm to the side of the pipeline.

4.3.1.7 Whenever a pipeline is exposed, it should be protected by matting and timber

cladding. The exposed pipeline should be suitably supported. Where lengths
greater than 5 m are to be exposed and unsupported, the promoter/contractor
should discuss with the operator the need to undertake a stress analysis to
determine support requirements. All temporary supports should be removed
prior to backfill.

4.3.2 Crossing over a pipeline

Where a new service is to cross over a pipeline, a clearance of 600 mm between

the crown of the pipeline and underside of the service should be maintained. If
this cannot be achieved, the service should cross below the pipeline (see clause
4.3.3).

Consideration may be given to a relaxation by agreement with the operator and

be undertaken while the operator's responsible person remains on site. Where
relaxation applies, the clearance should not be less than 300 mm.

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4.3.3 Crossing below a pipeline

4.3.3.1 Where a new service is to cross below a pipeline, a clearance of 600 mm

between the crown of the service and underside of the pipeline should be
maintained.

4.3.3.2 An exposed pipeline should be suitably supported. Such support should be

removed prior to backfilling.

4.3.3.3 An exposed pipeline should be protected by matting and suitable timber

cladding.

4.3.4 Positioning of excavating equipment

4.3.4.1 Mechanical excavators should not be sited or moved above a pipeline unless
written authority has been given by the operator (see clause 4.2.1.2).

4.3.4.2 Mechanical excavators should not be sited or moved above a pipeline with the
cab positioned on the other side.

4.3.4.3 Mechanical excavators and other traffic should be positioned far enough away
from the trench to prevent trench wall collapse.

4.3.5 Cathodic protection

4.3.5.1 Where the new service is cathodically protected and the gas plant is similarly
protected, the operator should request that interference tests be carried out to
determine whether its own system is adversely affected.

4.3.5.2 Should any cathodic protection posts or associated equipment need moving to
facilitate third party works, reasonable notice should be given to the operator.

4.3.6 Piling and boring

Note: The peak particle velocities indicated apply to all types of seismic and vibration inducing
activities.

4.3.6.1 Piling or boring should not be allowed within 15 m of buried gas plant without an
assessment of the vibration levels at the location of the gas plant.

4.3.6.2 For welded steel or PE plant, the peak particle velocity at the plant should be
limited to a maximum of 40 mm sec-I.

Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 40 mm sec-I,

assessment of pipeline stress state, which includes the incremental load due to
vibration, should be carried out. The vibration loads should be considered as
additional to all other relevant and transient loads affecting the pipeline. In
addition, an assessment of cyclic loading should be carried out.

Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 30 mm sec-I, the ground
vibration should be monitored.

4.3.6.3 On a ductile or cast iron pipeline, the peak particle velocity should not exceed
25 mm sec- I and leakage surveys should be undertaken at appropriate intervals
during the works.

4.3.6.4 Where ground conditions are of submerged granular deposits of silt and sand,
an assessment of the effect of vibration on settlement and liquefaction at the
pipeline should be made.

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4.3.7 Blasting

4.3.7.1 For MOP exceeding 7 bar, blasting should not be allowed within 250 m of buried
gas plant without an assessment of the vibration levels at the location of the gas
plant.

For MOP not exceeding 7 bar, blasting should not be allowed within 30 m of
buried gas plant without the written consent of the operator.

Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 40 mm sec- 1 , an

assessment of the pipeline stress state, which includes the incremental load due
to vibration, is required. The vibration loads should be considered as additional
to all other relevant and transient loads affecting the pipeline. In addition, an
assessment of cyclic loading should be carried out.

Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 30 mm sec- 1 , the ground
vibration should be monitored (see also clause 4.3.7.2).

4.3.7.2 For welded steel or PE plant, the peak particle velocity at the plant should be
limited to a level of 75 mm sec- 1 •
1
Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 50 mm sec- , the
ground vibration should be monitored.

4.3.7.3 On a ductile or cast iron pipeline, the peak particle velocity should not exceed
25 mm sec- 1 and a leakage survey should be undertaken at appropriate intervals
during blasting operations.

4.3.7.4 Where ground conditions are of submerged granular deposits of silt or sand, an
assessment of the effect of vibration on settlement and liquefaction at the
pipeline should be made.

4.3.8 Deep mining

A pipeline routed within 1 km of active deep mining may be affected by

subsidence resulting from mineral extraction. An expert evaluation of these
effects should be sought.

4.3.9 Surface mineral extraction

An expert assessment should be carried out on the effect of surface mineral

extraction activity within 100 m of a pipeline.

Where mineral extraction extends up to the easement, a stable slope angle and
stand-off distance between the pipeline and slope crest should be determined.
The easement strip should be marked clearly by a suitable permanent boundary
such as a post and wire fence. Where appropriate, slope indicator markers
should be erected to facilitate the verification of the recommended slope angle
as the slope is formed.

The easement and slope should be inspected periodically to identify any signs of
developing instability. This may include any change of slope profile, including
bulging, the development of tension cracks on the slope or easement, or any
changes in drainage around the slope. The results of each inspection should be
recorded.

Where surface mineral extraction activities are planned within 100 m of a

pipeline, but do not extend up to the easement boundary, an assessment should
be made on whether the planned activity could promote instability in the vicinity
of the pipeline.

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4.3.10 Demolition

4.3.10.1 Demolition should not be allowed within 150 m of the gas plant, or 400 m for a
structure mass greater than 10000 tonnes, without an assessment of the
vibration levels at the plant. The measured distance extends from the edge of
the area affected by falling material to the plant.

Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 40 mm sec- 1 , an

assessment of pipeline stress state, which includes the incremental load due to
vibration, should be carried out. The vibration loads should be considered as
additional to all other relevant and transient loads affecting the pipeline. In
addition, an assessment of cyclic loading should be carried out.

Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 30 mm sec- 1 , the ground
vibration should be monitored (see also clause 4.2.10.2).

4.3.10.2 For a welded steel or PE pipeline, the peak particle velocity should not exceed
75 mm sec- 1 at the pipeline.

Where the peak particle velocity is predicted to exceed 50 mm sec- 1 , the ground
vibration should monitored.

4.3.10.3 For a cast iron or ductile iron pipeline, the peak particle velocity should not
exceed 25 mm sec- 1 at the pipeline. A leakage survey should be undertaken
before work starts and at appropriate intervals during the work.

4.3.10.4 Where ground conditions comprise submerged granular deposits of silt or sand,
an assessment of the effect of vibration on settlement and liquefaction at the
pipeline should be made.

4.3.11 Pressure testing

Pressure testing should not be permitted within 8 m of a pipeline unless suitable

precautions have been taken against the effects of a pipe failure. These
precautions should include the limiting of the design factor of the new pipeline
to 0.3 for a distance of 6 m either side of the original pipeline, or the use of pre-
tested pipe or sleeving.

4.3.12 Pipe splitting

If a pipeline is to be replaced using pipe splitting techniques, each crossing of a

pipeline should be exposed to ascertain the clearance between them. If there is
deemed to be sufficient clearance to allow the work to continue, each crossing
should be manned during the splitting operation to watch the splitter pass. If
there is any likelihood of damage to the pipeline, the operation should be
stopped immediately.

4.3.13 Hot works

When the operator's gas plant has been exposed, welding or other hot works on
the contractor's service, involving naked flames, should not be carried out in
proximity to the plant unless suitable protection has been agreed and provided.
Gas leak checks should be undertaken, by the operator, before and during such
operations.

Hot working should not take place within 500 mm of a PE pipeline.

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4.3.14 Increase of cover

An assessment of pipeline integrity should be made where the depth of cover is

increased to 2.4 m or more.

Note: No action is required for an existing pipeline buried at 2.4 m or more except where a
change in operating conditions, such as uprating, adding cover, etc. is proposed.

4.3.15 Landfilling

An assessment should be carried out on the effect of any landfilling activity

within 100 m of a pipeline.

4.3.16 Backfilling

Third parties should provide the operator with at least 48 hours notice of intent
to backfill over, under or alongside the pipeline. Any damage to the pipeline or
main coating should be reported immediately to the operator so that repairs can
be made prior to backfilling.

All reinstatement of materials and techniques should be agreed with the

operator.

4.3.17 Construction traffic

Construction traffic should cross a pipeline only at previously agreed locations.

All crossing points should be fenced on both sides with a post and wire fence,
and with the fence returned along the easement for a distance of 6 m. The
pipeline should be protected at the crossing points by temporary rafts of either
sleeper or reinforced concrete construction, constructed at ground level.

Ground conditions, vehicle types and crossing frequency should determine the
type of raft required.

The operator should consider conducting a leakage survey over any susceptible
pipeline, for example over a cast iron main, before works commence and at
appropriate intervals during the work.

Notices, directing traffic to the crossing points, should be erected.

4.4 REPORTING ENCROACHMENT

Details of all third party and operator's activities within the easement, together
with any activity outside of the easement, which could have a detrimental
influence on the integrity of a pipeline, should be recorded on an encroachment
form.

A typical encroachment form should include a unique reference number, pipeline

reference activity location, contractor details, details of encroachment, sketch of
activity in relation to the pipeline or main, depth of cover, depth of crossing,
signature of operator's representative, etc.

4.5 ACTION IN THE CASE OF DAMAGE TO A PIPELINE

If a pipeline is damaged, even slightly, the following precautions should be

taken immediately:
• shut down all plant and machinery and extinguish any potential sources of
ignition
• evacuate all personnel from the vicinity of the damage

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• notify the operator immediately using the contact telephone number

provided or by using the gas emergency number
• ensure no one approaches the pipeline
• provide assistance as requested by the operator, or emergency services, to
safeguard persons or property
• ensure no attempt is made to try to stop any leaking gas.

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APPENDIX 1 : GLOSSARY AND ACRONYMS

AcoP Approved Code of Practice.

contractor The persons, firm, company or authority carrying out work

on behalf of the promoter of the works.

easement A strip of land in, upon and over which the undertaking
acquired the right to lay, construct, inspect, maintain,
protect, use, replace, remove, or render unusable a
pipeline or main for the transmission or storage of gas or
other materials connected with the exercise and
performance of the functions of the operator, and all
necessary apparatus ancillary thereto.

design factor A stress safety factor used in pipe wall thickness

ca Iculations.

gas plant Includes gas pipelines and associated gas installations that
are the responsibility of the operator.

HASAWA Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act.

IGEM Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers.

MOP Maximum operating pressure.

NRSWA New Roads and Street Works Act.

operator Person responsible for affected pipelines and associated

installations (includes "owner" for the purpose of these
Recom mendations).

PE Polyethylene.

pipeline A pipe or system of pipes used for the conveyance of gas

which can run across country and in highways.

PRI Pressure regulating installation.

promoter The persons, firm, company or authority for whom a new

service or other work is being carried out (includes
"contractor" for the purpose of these Recommendations).

PSR Pipelines Safety Regulations.

public highway A way over which all members of the public have a right to
pass and re-pass provided that the use of the way must be
as of right and not by permission.

PVC Polyvinyl Chloride.

Service Includes any service in the vicinity of gas plant.

UIP Utility Infrastructure Provider.

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APPENDIX 2 : REFERENCES

These Recommendations are set out against a background of legislation in force in Great
Britain at the time of publication. Similar considerations are likely to apply in other countries
where reference to appropriate national legislation is necessary.

All relevant legislation must be complied with and relevant Approved Codes of Practice
(ACoPs), official Guidance Notes and referenced codes, standards, etc. should be taken into
account.

Where British Standards, etc. are quoted, equivalent national or international standards, etc.
equally may be appropriate.

Care should be taken to ensure that the latest editions of the relevant documents are used.

A2.1 LEGISLATION
• Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974
• New Roads and Street Works Act 1991
• Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996
• Street Works (Register, Notices, Directions and Designations) Regulations
1992
• Road Works (Register, Notices, Directions and Designations) (Scotland)
Regulations 1992.

A2.2 ACoPs and GUIDANCE

• HS(G)47 Avoiding danger from underground services
• HS(G)48 Human factors in industrial safety
• Code of Practice for the Co-ordination of Street Works and Works for Road
Purposes and related matters.

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Published by the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers
12, York Gate, London NW1 4QG
July 2002 Communication 1678 (IGE/SR/18 Edition 2) Copyright