All pipeline safety jobs are concerned with inspecting the integrity of pipelines. At the same time, safety pipeline operators also need to look into a company’s records regarding pipeline integrity, its construction, maintenance, operation and built. However, their tasks do not end there as they also have to keep records of employees’ alcohol and drug reports and results.
Job Description
A pipeline safety inspector must also ensure that records of employees’ qualifications are kept. They also need to perform regular inspection of pipelines at intervals set by the company. Following each inspection they will need to prepare a summary or a detailed report of their findings.
Their report will not just include defects and problems with the pipeline (if any), but also note the corrective actions taken by the operator to remedy the situation. Their report will also indicate if the steps taken were proper.
If they were not, recommendations will be included in their findings. In addition to those tasks, safety jobs also require them to test and investigate the facilities of pipeline companies to make sure they are in accordance with standards, regulations and protocol.
Additional Responsibilities
A pipeline safety inspector assessing a facility will take notes and check if there are any violations of the Gas Pipeline Code of that state. At the same time they will offer guidance and advice for those companies that do not meet the required standards. These experts also have engineering expertise that can guide natural gas pipeline companies.
These safety jobs will require them to be familiar with the Pipeline Safety Code of whatever state they are working in, as they will have to inform the company they are inspecting about these regulations. Furthermore, the inspector has to look into companies’ engineering design records to get an idea of the cost and feasibility.
Those involved in pipeline safety inspection also have the power to deny or approve applications or projects depending on whether they meet the standards and guidelines that are required. Also, they will be asked on certain occasions, to deliver written testimony, analyze and revise reports as well as conduct research for a pipeline company.
Other Aspects of the Job
Pipeline safety inspectors also work as advisors concerning technical and contested matters, their job being to offer advice and recommendations. If required they will participate and testify in hearings if there is a case concerning pipeline gas code violations.
Apart from knowing the Federal Pipeline Safety Code and the pipeline safety code of the state they are working in, they must also know how to use the right testing equipment and get the proper calibrations.
Some of them will be required to respond to complaints and make public inquiries and complaints, so good communications skills are a necessity. Aside from those tasks stated above, a pipeline safety inspector may also necessitate frequent travel or relocation.
Besides an educational background and knowledge of pipeline safety and construction, job applicants also need to know the practices, concepts and principles that relate to engineering and the utility industry. Applicants must also know how to don the proper safety gear and of course prepare technical reports, both written and oral.
The job description provided here is a general one, as companies may assign other duties and tasks that may not usually fall within their job description.
Author Bio: Ronald King is an expert in pipeline safety practices, having worked in the industry for more than twenty years. King has written several articles on the subject for Job site.
