What is a pipeline inspection checklist?
Pipeline inspection checklists are used by pipeline engineers to evaluate the condition of pipe systems and prevent leaks, pressure surges, or corrosion. This way they can ensure that the systems are being monitored and take corrective actions in case of issues.
As a rule, pipeline inspections are followed by reports. A pipe inspection report is a comprehensive document used to check for any hazards poses by a pipeline. They also help reduce expenses by catching problems early.
Table of contents
4 areas of any pipeline inspection checklist
Your pipeline inspection checklist should give you a comprehensive picture of your pipe system. The following tips will help organize your inspection process.
- Collect information
First, collect past and present data, including design records, operation and maintenance histories, and corrosion control procedures to decide which type of inspection (e.g., close-in inspection (CIS)) you’ll perform. Examples of variables to inspect include short-range, current-voltage gradient, or AC attenuation inspection to assess corrosion activity. - Surface inspection
Conduct an above-ground inspection to find coating defects and other signs of corrosion. - Examination
Use the data from above-ground inspections to evaluate segments for pipe surface assessments and excavations for buried pipes. Determine how much external corrosion affects the pipeline and the general condition of pipe coating. Based on your findings, decide whether immediate action is needed. - Control
Evaluate the data from the examination and record any risk factors that should be checked regularly.
Advantages of thorough pipeline inspection checklists
People and businesses often overlook regular pipeline inspections. However, using a pipeline inspection checklist to regularly evaluate pipe systems helps:
- Eliminate deficiencies while it is still possible and easy to do. Addressing small details is easier than repairing the entire system. And pipelines, in particular, need to be maintained since they are at risk of corrosion.
- Prevent employee lawsuits. If a worker eventually gets sick or injured because a pipeline malfunctioned, your company may be taken to court. Keeping your employees safe by regularly assessing the state of your pipe systems is better for everyone.
- Guarantee that all pipe operators are working efficiently to monitor pipe conditions
- Save money, since regular maintenance is always cheaper than installing a new system
Smooth pipeline inspections with workflow automation software
Getting the most out of your pipeline inspection checklist is easiest when you have workflow automation software like Lumiform. Lumiform’s mobile app and desktop software make it easy to perform quality and safety audits, report problems in a snap, and quickly assign corrective actions to responsible colleagues. The software streamlines team communication so that roles an responsibilities are clear, and you don’t miss an inspection.
When you use conduct pipe inspections with Lumiform:
- The flexible checklist builder allows you to create digital pipeline inspection checklists and digitize any existing checklists
- There are over 12,000 ready-made templates to help companies start inspecting immediately
- The mobile app lets you and your employees assess pipelines online and offline, and guides you through every step of the inspection
- All your data is stored and converted into regular reports which help your business find patterns and common trends
- The ease of assigning and tracking tasks means that you can always stay on top of the work you’re doing
