# EXPLORER PIPELINE CO — Notice of Probable Violation **Citation:** CPF 320135009 **Type / status:** enforcement / historical **Agency:** Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration **Effective:** Not stated **Published:** 2013-03-26 CLOSED notice of probable violation citing 195.264(a), 195.569, 195.573(e), 195.589(c). ## Document text Notice of Probable Violation involving EXPLORER PIPELINE CO. PHMSA's enforcement data identifies the cited regulations as 195.264(a), 195.569, 195.573(e), 195.589(c). The case was opened on 2013-03-26 and is reported as closed as of 2017-01-31. Proposed civil penalty: $91,900. Assessed civil penalty: $91,900. Open the official case record for notices, responses, orders, and the latest status. Official case documents: 320135009_Closure Letter_01312017.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Closure%20Letter_01312017.pdf 320135009_Closure Letter_01312017_text.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Closure%20Letter_01312017_text.pdf 320135009_Final Order_07092015.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Final%20Order_07092015.pdf 320135009_Final Order_07092015_text.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Final%20Order_07092015_text.pdf 320135009_NOPV PCP PCO_03262013.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_NOPV%20PCP%20PCO_03262013.pdf 320135009_NOPV PCP PCO_03262013_text.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_NOPV%20PCP%20PCO_03262013_text.pdf 320135009_Operator Response to Notice_05132014.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Operator%20Response%20to%20Notice_05132014.pdf 320135009_Operator_Response_and_Request_for_Hearing_05012013.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Operator_Response_and_Request_for_Hearing_05012013.pdf 320135009_NOPV PCP PCO_03262013_text.pdf NOTICE OF PROBABLE VIOLATION PROPOSED CIVIL PENALTY and PROPOSED COMPLIANCE ORDER CERTIFIED MAIL - RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED March 26, 2013 David Ysebaert President and CEO Explorer Pipeline Company P.O. Box 2650 Tulsa, OK 74101 CPF 3-2013-5009 Dear Mr. Ysebaert: On November 7-10, 2011, representatives of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) pursuant to Chapter 601 of 49 United States Code inspected Explorer Pipeline Company’s (EPC) pipeline system and associated operation and Maintenance records at your Tulsa, OK headquarters and Wood River, IL facility. As a result of the inspection, it appears that you have committed probable violations of the Pipeline Safety Regulations, Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations. The items inspected and the probable violations are: 1. §195.589 What corrosion control information do I have to maintain? (c) You must maintain a record of each analysis, check, demonstration, examination, inspection, investigation, review, survey, and test required by this subpart in sufficient detail to demonstrate the adequacy of corrosion control measures or that corrosion requiring control measures does not exist. You must retain these records for at least 5 years… EPC did not maintain and upon request was unable to provide the atmospheric corrosion monitoring documentation for those inspections required, pursuant to §195.583. Specifically, EPC did not maintain and was unable to provide records documenting its inspections of the Premcor Junction, Marathon 12” Junction, JD Street, and Sun Mobil locations during the 2007 through 2010 inspection cycle. EPC provided the following written statement in response to a request from PHMSA’s Central Region: “Atmospheric inspections were conducted in 2011. The supporting documentation for these 4 locations from the previous atmospheric 2007 to 2010 inspections cycle is pending and is still being reviewed. As we discussed during the audit, a personnel change was made with the Corrosion Supervisor and now with our Manager/Director of Asset Integrity. Supporting corrosion records are being reviewed and continue in effort to locate these 4 locations from the last inspection cycle.” 2. §195.569 Do I have to examine exposed portions of buried pipelines? Whenever you have knowledge that any portion of a buried pipeline is exposed, you must examine the exposed portion for evidence of external corrosion if the pipe is bare, or if the coating is deteriorated. If you find external corrosion requiring corrective action under Sec. 195.585, you must investigate circumferentially and longitudinally beyond the exposed portion (by visual examination, indirect method, or both) to determine whether additional corrosion requiring remedial action exists in the vicinity of the exposed portion. EPC did not perform an inspection of exposed buried pipeline in a creek bed that was documented by a contractor in a Close Interval Survey (CIS) report dated June 4, 2008. Central Region PHMSA inspectors requested documentation of performance for the exposed pipeline inspection as reported in June 4, 2008 CIS Report. EPC did not provide documentation. At the time of visiting the reported location, at PHMSA’s request, PHMSA representatives and Explorer personnel verified that the exposed pipeline exists as of November 9, 2011 at station number 13024+22. 2 3. 4. §195.573 What must I do to monitor external corrosion control? (e) Corrective action. You must correct any identified deficiency in corrosion control as required by Sec. 195.401(b). EPC did not correct deficiencies identified from the Close Interval Surveys (CIS) performed in 2008 on the Rolla to Gerald Station and Gerald Station to Weldon Springs line sections. Central Region PHMSA inspectors requested documentation of performance for the correction of the deficiencies identified in reports resulting from multiple Close Interval Surveys conducted in 2008. EPC personnel were unaware of corrosion control deficiencies until documentation of performance was requested by PHMSA inspectors. A probable violation that cites the same conduct as the finding of violation in a Final Order for the referenced case is considered a repeat offense. This probable violation is a repeat violation of Item 2, CPF# 3-2009-5018. §195.264 Impoundment, protection against entry, normal/emergency venting or pressure/vacuum relief for aboveground breakout tanks. (a) A means must be provided for containing hazardous liquids in the event of spillage or failure of an aboveground breakout tank. EPC did not provide a means for containing hazardous liquids in the event of spillage or failure of one aboveground breakout tank. PHMSA inspectors observed the construction configuration of the tank at Gerald pump station and requested documentation supporting the authorization of operating under the current configuration. EPC did not provide documentation. EPC provided the following written statement in response to a request from PHMSA’s Central Region, “The 470-barrel tanks at the Gerald and Lebanon Pump Stations are associated with the original 1970-1971 construction of the pipeline system.” In addition the response stated that “…the product in the tanks can re-inject into the pipeline.” Effective April 1, 1970, Part 195 Original Document, states the following: § 195.264 Above ground tanks. (a) A means must be provided for containing liquids in the event of spillage or tank failure. EPC constructed the line in 1970 and 1971 with its first shipment October 25, 1971. Therefore, EPC did not provide the required containment per the regulation in effect. 3 Proposed Civil Penalty Under 49 United States Code, § 60122, you are subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $200,000 per violation per day the violation persists up to a maximum of $2,000,000 for a related series of violations. For violations occurring prior to January 4, 2012, the maximum penalty may not exceed $100,000 per violation per day, with a maximum penalty not to exceed $1,000,000 for a related series of violations. The Compliance Officer has reviewed the circumstances and supporting documentation involved in the above probable violation(s) and has recommended that you be preliminarily assessed a civil penalty of $91,900 as follows: Item number PENALTY 1 $17,600 2 $22,500 3 $51,800 Proposed Compliance Order With respect to items 2, 3, and 4 pursuant to 49 United States Code § 60118, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration proposes to issue a Compliance Order to Explorer Pipeline Company. Please refer to the Proposed Compliance Order, which is enclosed and made a part of this Notice. Response to this Notice Enclosed as part of this Notice is a document entitled Response Options for Pipeline Operators in Compliance Proceedings. Please refer to this document and note the response options. Be advised that all material you submit in response to this enforcement action is subject to being made publicly available. If you believe that any portion of your responsive material qualifies for confidential treatment under 5 U.S.C. 552(b), along with the complete original document you must provide a second copy of the document with the portions you believe qualify for confidential treatment redacted and an explanation of why you believe the redacted information qualifies for confidential treatment under 5 U.S.C. 552(b). If you do not respond within 30 days of receipt of this Notice, this constitutes a waiver of your right to contest the allegations in this Notice and authorizes the Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety to find facts as alleged in this Notice without further notice to you and to issue a Final Order. In your correspondence on this matter, please refer to CPF 3-2013-5009 and for each document you submit, please provide a copy in electronic format whenever possible. 4 Sincerely, David Barrett Director, Central Region Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration Enclosures: Proposed Compliance Order Response Options for Pipeline Operators in Compliance Proceedings 5 PROPOSED COMPLIANCE ORDER Pursuant to 49 United States Code § 60118, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) proposes to issue to Explorer Pipeline Company a Compliance Order incorporating the following remedial requirements to ensure the compliance of Explorer Pipeline Company with the pipeline safety regulations: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. In regard to Item Number 2 of the Notice pertaining to EPC not performing an inspection of exposed buried pipeline in a creek bed that was documented by a contractor in a Close Interval Survey (CIS) report dated June 4, 2008 (24” Lebanon to Rolla Station), Explorer must examine the exposed portion of pipeline for evidence of deteriorated or bare pipe. In the event the operator finds external corrosion requiring corrective action under Sec. 195.585, the operator must investigate circumferentially and longitudinally beyond the exposed portion (by visual examination, indirect method, or both) to determine whether additional corrosion requiring remedial action exists in the vicinity of the exposed portion. In regard to Item Number 3 of the Notice pertaining to not demonstrating performance for the correction of the deficiencies identified in multiple Close Interval Surveys reports, which were conducted in 2008., Explorer must correct all the “Off CP Levels Dip Below 850” deficiencies identified in the Coastal Corrosion Control, Inc.’s Close Interval Survey Reports dated June 26, 2008 (24” Gerald to Weldon Springs), and July 21, 2008 (24” Rolla to Gerald Station) and demonstrate that cathodic protection is currently adequate. In regard to Item Number 4 of the Notice pertaining to not providing a means for containing liquids in the event of spillage or tank failure, within 30 days of issuance of the Final Order Explorer must submit a plan and schedule, for approval by the Director – Central Region, to install a method of containment for all above ground breakout tanks. Explorer Pipeline Company shall within 90 days from the date of issuance of the Final Order complete all remedial requirements of this Proposed Compliance Order and notify in writing the Director, Central Region of the completion of all remedial requirements along with documentation of completion. It is requested (not mandated) that Explorer Pipeline Company maintain documentation of the safety improvement costs associated with fulfilling this Compliance Order and submit the total to Director, Central Region. It is requested that these costs be reported in two categories: 1) total cost associated with preparation/revision of plans, procedures, studies and analyses, and 2) total cost associated with replacements, additions and other changes to pipeline infrastructure. 6 320135009_Closure Letter_01312017_text.pdf CERTIFIED MAIL - RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED January 31, 2017 Mr. Tom Jensen President and CEO Explorer Pipeline Company P.O. Box 2650 Tulsa, OK 74101 CPF 3-2013-5009 Dear Mr. Jensen: On July 9, 2015, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued to Explorer Pipeline Company a Final Order in the above-referenced case. This Order included a Compliance Order and Civil Penalty assessment. Based on our review of the documentation you provided and confirmation of payment of the civil penalty, it has been determined that you have complied with the terms of this Order. Accordingly, this case is now closed and no further action is contemplated with respect to the matters involved in this case. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter. Sincerely, Allan C. Beshore Director, Central Region, OPS Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 320135009_Final Order_07092015_text.pdf July 9, 2015 Mr. Tom Jensen President and CEO Explorer Pipeline Company P.O. Box 2650 Tulsa, OK 74101 Re: CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Dear Mr. Jensen: Enclosed please find the Final Order issued in the above-referenced case. It makes findings of violation, assesses a civil penalty of $91,900, and specifies actions that need to be taken by Explorer Pipeline Company to comply with the pipeline safety regulations. The penalty payment terms are set forth in the Final Order. When the civil penalty has been paid and the terms of the compliance order completed, as determined by the Director, Central Region, OPS, this enforcement action will be closed. Service of the Final Order is made pursuant to 49 C.F.R. § 190.5. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter. Sincerely, Jeffrey D. Wiese Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety Enclosure cc: Mr. Allan Beshore, Director, Central Region, Office of Pipeline Office Mr. Kevin Brown, DOT Administrator, Explorer Pipeline Company P.O. Box 2650, Tulsa, OK 74101 CERTIFIED MAIL – RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION OFFICE OF PIPELINE SAFETY WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590 ___________________________________ In the Matter of ) Explorer Pipeline Company, ) CPF No. 3-2013-5009 ) ) ) Respondent. ) ___________________________________ ) FINAL ORDER On November 7-10, 2011, pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 60117, a representative of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS), conducted a safety inspection of the pipeline system and associated records of Explorer Pipeline Company (Explorer or Respondent) in Oklahoma and Illinois. 1 As a result of the inspection, the Director, Central Region, OPS (Director), issued a Notice of Probable Violation, Proposed Civil Penalty, and Proposed Compliance Order (Notice) on March 26, 2013. In accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 190.207, the Notice alleged that Respondent had committed four violations of the pipeline safety regulations in 49 C.F.R. Part 195. The Notice proposed a civil penalty of $91,900 and proposed that corrective action be taken. 2 Explorer responded to the Notice by letter dated May 1, 2013 (Response). In its Response, Explorer contested one of the alleged violations and requested a hearing. Explorer provided a summary of its position and additional materials in two pre-hearing submissions dated October 3, 2013 (First Pre-hearing Submission), and January 17, 2014 (Second Pre-hearing Submission). In accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 190.211, a hearing was held April 16, 2014, in Kansas City, Missouri, before a Presiding Official from the Office of Chief Counsel, PHMSA. The Presiding Official attended by video teleconference pursuant to § 190.211(c). Explorer submitted a post- hearing summary on May 13, 2014 (Post-hearing Summary). 1 Explorer operates approximately 1,800 miles of pipeline transporting refined petroleum products from Texas to states in the Midwest, as reported for calendar year 2013 pursuant to 49 C.F.R. § 195.49. 2 The Notice was issued in conjunction with a separate Notice of Amendment (CPF No. 3-2013-5010M). An Order Directing Amendment in that case is being issued separately. CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Page 2 FINDINGS OF VIOLATION The Notice alleged that Respondent committed four violations of the pipeline safety standards in 49 C.F.R. Part 195. Respondent did not contest the violations alleged in Items 1, 2, and 4, which are discussed first. Item 3, which is contested, is discussed next. Uncontested Items Item 1: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.589(c), which states: § 195.589 What corrosion control information do I have to maintain? (a) . . . . (c) You must maintain a record of each analysis, check, demonstration, examination, inspection, investigation, review, survey, and test required by this subpart in sufficient detail to demonstrate the adequacy of corrosion control measures or that corrosion requiring control measures does not exist. You must retain these records for at least 5 years, except that records related to §§ 195.569, 195.573(a) and (b), and 195.579(b)(3) and (c) must be retained for as long as the pipeline remains in service. The Notice alleged that Respondent violated § 195.589(c) by failing to maintain a record of each atmospheric corrosion inspection for at least 5 years. Respondent did not have records documenting certain atmospheric corrosion inspections performed between 2007 and 2010. Respondent did not contest the alleged violation and explained that it has made improvements to its recordkeeping system. Having reviewed the record, PHMSA finds Respondent violated § 195.589(c) as alleged in the Notice. Item 2: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.569, which states: § 195.569 Do I have to examine exposed portions of buried pipelines? Whenever you have knowledge that any portion of a buried pipeline is exposed, you must examine the exposed portion for evidence of external corrosion if the pipe is bare, or if the coating is deteriorated. If you find external corrosion requiring corrective action under § 195.585, you must investigate circumferentially and longitudinally beyond the exposed portion (by visual examination, indirect method, or both) to determine whether additional corrosion requiring remedial action exists in the vicinity of the exposed portion. The Notice alleged that Respondent violated § 195.569 by failing to examine an exposed portion of buried pipeline. Records from a close interval survey performed in June 2008 identified an exposed portion of pipeline in a creek. During the OPS inspection in November 2011, the same CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Page 3 portion of pipeline was still exposed. Respondent could not demonstrate that it had conducted a documented examination of the exposed pipeline as required. Respondent did not contest the alleged violation and explained that it has made improvements to its communication processes. Under the new procedures, corrosion control personnel will be alerted when examinations are needed for exposed pipelines. Having reviewed the record, PHMSA finds Respondent violated § 195.569 as alleged in the Notice. Item 4: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.264(a), which states: § 195.264 Impoundment, protection against entry, normal/ emergency venting or pressure/vacuum relief for aboveground breakout tanks. (a) A means must be provided for containing hazardous liquids in the event of spillage or failure of an aboveground breakout tank. The Notice alleged that Respondent violated § 195.264(a) by failing to provide impoundment for one breakout tank at the Gerald Pump Station so that spillage or failure of the tank would be contained. Respondent did not contest the alleged violation and explained that it has installed dikes at the facility. Having reviewed the record, PHMSA finds Respondent violated § 195.264(a) as alleged in the Notice. Contested Item Item 3: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.573(e), which states: § 195.573 What must I do to monitor external corrosion control? (a) . . . . (e) Corrective action. You must correct any identified deficiency in corrosion control as required by § 195.401(b). However, if the deficiency involves a pipeline in an integrity management program under § 195.452, you must correct the deficiency as required by § 195.452(h). §195.401 General requirements. (a) . . . . (b) An operator must make repairs on its pipeline system according to the following requirements: (1) Non Integrity management repairs. Whenever an operator discovers any condition that could adversely affect the safe operation of its pipeline system, it must correct the condition within a reasonable time. However, if the condition is of such a nature that it presents an immediate hazard to persons or property, the operator may not operate the affected part of the system until it has corrected the unsafe condition. CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Page 4 The Notice alleged that Respondent violated § 195.573(e) by failing to correct corrosion control deficiencies identified by a close interval survey (CIS). The CIS was performed in 2008 on two pipeline sections, the Rolla to Gerald Station section and the Gerald Station to Weldon Springs section. The Notice alleged that Explorer was unaware of deficiencies identified by the 2008 CIS until they were brought to the attention of the Company during the OPS inspection in November 2011. The Notice alleged this was a repeat violation. 3 At the hearing and in its written submissions, Respondent stated that there were never any deficiencies in cathodic protection. Respondent contended that each of its annual cathodic protection surveys conducted from 2008 through 2012 met regulatory criteria.4 Respondent acknowledged that the 2008 CIS results identified some locations where instant off readings were less negative than the -850mv criteria, but Respondent asserted that all of those locations still met the -850mV criteria or, alternatively, the 100mV shift criteria. Specifically, Respondent concluded that the locations met at least one of the applicable criteria based on the following considerations: (1) the annual 2008 pipe-to-soil survey conducted following the 2008 CIS indicated potentials were more negative than -850mV; (2) an historical review of the cathodic protection records were conducted and evaluated; (3) dig reports on the pipeline were conducted and evaluated; (4) potential measurements via dig reports were reviewed and evaluated; (5) 2007 inline inspection data was evaluated; and (6) depolarization survey on the annual survey and native readings were evaluated and confirmed to have 100mV of polarization.5 Respondent noted that another operator’s use of a similar methodology to verify the adequacy of cathodic protection was accepted by PHMSA in a 2004 enforcement action. 6 At the hearing on April 16, 2014, OPS reiterated its position that Explorer committed a violation of § 195.573(e) by failing to promptly correct corrosion control deficiencies, noting that Respondent never performed any actions to verify the pipeline met criteria following the 2008 CIS until more than three years later. A. Applicable Safety Standards for Addressing Cathodic Protection Deficiencies Buried pipelines that transport hazardous liquids must have cathodic protection systems installed to protect the pipelines from external corrosion. 7 A cathodic protection system with an impressed current prevents corrosion by applying direct electric current to the pipeline in an 3 The prior violation referenced was CPF No. 3-2009-5018, Item 2, 2011 WL 4351591 (Jul. 22, 2011). Final orders can also be viewed on PHMSA’s website at http://www.phmsa.dot.gov/pipeline/enforcement (follow links for enforcement since 2002 and then for final orders issued by year). 4 Post-hearing Summary at 2-3. 5 First Pre-hearing Submission at 4. 6 Response at 6-7; Post-hearing Summary at 3. 7 § 195.563. CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Page 5 amount sufficient to prevent metal loss to the surrounding environment.8 Operators must maintain a minimum level of cathodic protection, and they must monitor the protection to ensure it is adequate to prevent corrosion.9 Criteria for determining the adequacy of cathodic protection are listed in NACE SP0169-2007, a consensus standard incorporated by reference at §§ 195.571 and 195.3. One of the criteria is a negative potential of at least 850mV with the cathodic protection applied, known as the -850mV criterion.10 Another one is 100mV or more of cathodic polarization between the structure surface and a stable reference electrode contacting the electrolyte. 11 This is known as the 100mV criterion. Operators must monitor cathodic protection to ensure it complies with one or more of the applicable criteria. 12 Monitoring must be performed through annual tests of the cathodic protection and by using CIS, where necessary. 13 After an operator performs a cathodic protection test or survey, the operator is required to correct any “identified deficiency” under § 195.573(e). In addition, § 195.401(b) states that whenever an operator discovers a condition that could adversely affect safe operation, the operator must correct the condition “within a reasonable time.” PHMSA has previously stated that, generally, a reasonable time for an operator to correct an identified deficiency in cathodic protection is before the next annual inspection cycle.14 B. Evidence in the Record PHMSA reviews the evidence to determine if Respondent violated § 195.573(e) by failing to correct within a reasonable time corrosion control deficiencies identified by the 2008 CIS. The evidence in the record includes reports from the 2008 CIS. The report for the Gerald to Weldon Springs line section lists “Cathodic Protection Related Deficienc[ies]” at station numbers 16940+35, 17816+07-17883+34, and 17916+42-17937+14.15 A separate report for the 8 Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P., CPF 4-2006-5023, Item 4 at p. 6-7, 2010 WL 6531634 (Aug. 31, 2010). 9 §§ 195.571 and 195.573. 10 NACE SP0169-2007, paragraph 6.2.2.1.1. An instant-off reading that is less negative than -850mV indicates there is inadequate cathodic protection when using the -850mV criteria. Panhandle Energy, CPF No. 3-2010- 1006M, Item 19 at p. 8-11, 2012 WL 7177132 (Dec. 31, 2012). 11 NACE SP0169-2007, paragraph 6.2.2.1.3. 12 §§ 195.571 and 195.573. 13 § 195.573(a). 14 See, e.g., Holly Energy Partners, L.P., CPF No. 4-2010-5007, Item 2, 2010 WL 6539186 (Oct. 18, 2010) (finding a violation for inadequate cathodic protection readings during two consecutive years); Sunoco Logistics Partners, LP, CPF No. 3-2010-5012, Item 4, 2012 WL 4846329 (Aug. 30, 2012) (finding a violation for failing to address deficiencies identified during CIS for more than three years). 15 OPS Pipeline Safety Violation Report (Mar. 26, 2013), Exhibit A-3. The report also lists a number of “marginal” deficiencies, but at the hearing OPS stated those deficiencies were not part of the alleged violation. CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Page 6 Rolla to Gerald Station line section lists cathodic protection deficiencies at station numbers 15364+02, 16087+00, 16091+00, and 16093+00.16 In total, seven deficiencies were identified. According to the reports, the deficiencies where identified due to instant off levels below -850mV. Respondent submitted additional cathodic protection records and other documentation. The records included: native and depolarized (or depol) readings from 1971 and 1998; annual survey readings from 2008-2012; inline inspection dig reports; company procedures for cathodic protection criteria; and past PHMSA enforcement cases. 17 At the hearing, Respondent presented a chart to show that the locations identified as deficient in the 2008 CIS report actually met the alternative 100mV criteria based on consideration of instant off values and the depol or native values derived in 1998.18 C. Analysis and Findings Having reviewed the evidence in the record, PHMSA finds that in 2008 Respondent performed a CIS of the cathodic protection system on its pipeline. As a result of the CIS, at least seven locations were identified on the Rolla to Gerald Station and Gerald Station to Weldon Springs pipeline sections that had interrupted survey readings of less than -850mV. Such readings indicate that cathodic protection did not meet the -850mV criteria for adequate cathodic protection. The seven locations identified as not meeting the -850mV criteria were “identified deficiencies” under § 195.573(e). Under §§ 195.573(e) and 195.401(b), Respondent must address such conditions within a reasonable time by either taking corrective action to bring the cathodic protection levels into compliance with the -850mV criteria, or if possible, by verifying that the locations comply with a different criteria. The evidence demonstrates that Respondent did neither until 2011. It was not until then that Respondent studied its records and concluded that in 2008 the seven locations would have met the alternative 100mV criteria. Since Respondent did not verify whether the locations met an alternative criteria for more than three years, PHMSA finds Respondent did not fulfill its obligation to correct the identified deficiencies within a reasonable amount of time. In its written submissions and at the hearing, Respondent argued that no deficiencies actually existed because Respondent can demonstrate through an extrapolation of data performed in 2011 that the locations would have met the alternative 100mV criteria back in 2008. PHMSA finds this argument does not support dismissal of the violation. Respondent’s data analysis was not performed within a reasonable amount of time as required under the 16 Violation Report, Exhibit A-4. 17 First Pre-hearing Submission, Exhibits. 18 Respondent hearing exhibit (Apr. 15, 2014). CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Page 7 regulation. 19 By failing to determine if the locations met an alternative criteria until 2011, Respondent did not comply with its regulatory obligation to address the -850mV deficiencies when they were reported in 2008. Respondent also argued that the extrapolation methodology it used in 2011 is similar to a methodology PHMSA accepted in an earlier enforcement action involving another operator.20 PHMSA finds the methodology Respondent used in 2011 is not dispositive, because it was not performed within a reasonable amount of time as required under the code. D. Other Arguments Raised by Respondent In addition to contesting the alleged violation, Respondent contested several factual assertions in the Notice concerning the Company’s awareness of the CIS results and whether the violation constituted a repeat offense. With regard to the allegation in the Notice that “personnel were unaware of corrosion control deficiencies,” Respondent explained that at the time of the OPS inspection, the company had just experienced a change in personnel.21 The new employees within Respondent’s Asset Integrity group were not yet familiar with the CIS performed in 2008. Respondent also stated that performance of the 2008 CIS was “voluntary,” so the employees might not have understood what the OPS inspector was asking about.22 Reviewing the record, PHMSA finds there is a statement in evidence by the OPS inspector that Explorer personnel were “unaware that the 2008 CIS report deficiencies were not addressed.”23 This information was “attested by the following personnel . . . ” and the report listed the names of several employees. These statements constitute evidence that personnel did not know what, if any, actions were taken to address the identified deficiencies; but these statements do not support the assertion that personnel were unaware of the deficiencies themselves. Since OPS did not produce sufficient evidence to support the assertion in the Notice that personnel were unaware of corrosion control deficiencies, PHMSA withdraws the assertion. Withdrawal of this statement has no impact on the finding that Respondent failed to address identified deficiencies within a reasonable amount of time as required under the code. Finally, Respondent argued that even if PHMSA were to find a violation in this case, it would not be a repeat offense. Respondent reasoned that when Explorer was previously found in 19 At the hearing, OPS also questioned the validity of Respondent’s data analysis and extrapolation. Regardless of the method’s validity, however, it was performed long after the regulation required. 20 Response at 3-4; Post-hearing Summary at 3, citing ExxonMobil Pipeline Co., CPF No. 5-2003-5006, Item 3, 2004 WL 6240956 (July 1, 2004). 21 Notice at 3. 22 Post-hearing Summary at 2. 23 Violation Report at 13. CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Page 8 violation of § 195.573(e), it was for two station delivery lines the company believed were unregulated.24 In the earlier case, Explorer was found to have violated § 195.573(e) by failing to correct deficient cathodic protection on two separate pipelines with readings less than -850mV for many years. Explorer had argued that the regulation did not apply to the two pipelines because they were low-stress lines exempt from Part 195 under the exception in § 195.1(b)(4). PHMSA disagreed in the final order, which was issued in July 2011, and explained that Explorer’s misinterpretation of the low-stress exemption was not a valid reason for its failure to comply. Explorer then petitioned for reconsideration of the final order, but PHMSA did not find reason to withdraw the violation or reduce the penalty. In the present case, PHMSA again finds that Explorer violated § 195.573(e) by failing to take action to address deficient cathodic protection readings on its pipelines. This is essentially the same violation as the prior case. Both cases involved a failure to timely address indications of deficiencies. The fact that Respondent thought the pipelines in the prior case were low-stress does not distinguish these cases, because PHMSA rejected that interpretation. Accordingly, PHMSA finds the current violation is a repeat offense. E. Conclusion For the reasons set forth above, PHMSA finds Respondent violated § 195.573(e) by failing to correct identified corrosion control deficiencies within a reasonable time on its Rolla to Gerald Station and Gerald Station to Weldon Springs pipeline sections. The findings of violation in this Final Order will be considered prior offenses in any subsequent enforcement action taken against Respondent. ASSESSMENT OF PENALTY Under 49 U.S.C. § 60122 (2011), Respondent is subject to an administrative civil penalty not to exceed $100,000 per violation for each day of the violation, up to a maximum of $1,000,000 for any related series of violations.25 The Notice proposed a total civil penalty of $91,900 for the violations in Items 1, 2, and 3. The Notice did not proposed a civil penalty for Item 4. In determining the amount of a civil penalty under 49 U.S.C. § 60122 and 49 C.F.R. § 190.225, PHMSA must consider the following criteria: the nature, circumstances and gravity of the 24 Response at 4 and Post-hearing Summary at 3-4, citing Explorer Pipeline Co., Final Order, CPF No. 3-2009- 5018, Item 2, 2011 WL 4351591 (Jul. 22, 2011). See also Explorer Pipeline Co., Decision on Reconsideration, CPF No. 3-2009-5018, 2012 WL 1065164 (Jan. 25, 2012). 25 Subsequent to the actions that gave rise to this case, the Pipeline Safety, Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act of 2011, Pub. L. No. 112-90, § 2(a), 125 Stat. 1905 (Jan. 3, 2012), increased the maximum civil penalty for a pipeline safety violation to $200,000 per violation for each day up to a maximum of $2,000,000 for a related series. CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Page 9 violation, including adverse impact on the environment; the degree of Respondent’s culpability; the history of Respondent’s prior offenses; the good faith of Respondent in attempting to comply with the pipeline safety regulations; and the effect on Respondent’s ability to continue in business. In addition, PHMSA may consider the economic benefit gained from the violation and such other matters as justice may require. Item 1: The Notice proposed a civil penalty of $17,600 for the violation of § 195.589(c). Respondent did not contest the proposed penalty. Accordingly, having reviewed the record and considered the assessment criteria, Respondent is assessed a penalty of $17,600 for the violation of § 195.589(c). Item 2: The Notice proposed a civil penalty of $22,500 for the violation of § 195.569. Respondent did not contest the proposed penalty. Accordingly, having reviewed the record and considered the assessment criteria, Respondent is assessed a penalty of $22,500 for the violation of § 195.569. Item 3: The Notice proposed a civil penalty of $51,800 for Respondent’s violation of 49 C.F.R. § 195.573(e). Respondent violated § 195.573(e) by failing to correct indications of corrosion control deficiencies for more than three years following a CIS on its pipeline. The CIS identified seven deficiencies where cathodic protection did not comply with the -850mV criteria. Respondent did not address the identified deficiencies until 2011. The proposed penalty amount was based on assertions in the Notice and Violation Report relevant to the penalty assessment criteria in § 190.225. With regard to the nature, circumstances and gravity of the violation, the Violation Report suggested that the violation potentially compromised pipeline integrity because failing to promptly address indications of inadequate cathodic protection may increase the likelihood of pipeline failure due to corrosion. With regard to the degree of Respondent’s culpability and good faith, the Violation Report suggested no reduction to the penalty under these factors because Respondent failed to take any action to address the identified deficiencies for more than three years. With regard to the history of Respondent’s prior offenses, the Violation Report noted a total of two prior offenses in the five-year period prior to issuance of the Notice. This violation was also a repeat offense. Based on a review of the evidence in the record, PHMSA finds the above information supports the amount of the penalty proposed. Accordingly, having reviewed the record and considered the assessment criteria, PHMSA assesses a civil penalty of $51,800 for Respondent’s violation of § 195.573(e). In summary, having reviewed the record and considered the assessment criteria for each of the Items cited above, Respondent is assessed a total civil penalty of $91,900. CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Page 10 Payment of the civil penalty must be made within 20 days of service. Federal regulations (49 C.F.R. § 89.21(b)(3)) require such payment to be made by wire transfer through the Federal Reserve Communications System (Fedwire), to the account of the U.S. Treasury. Detailed instructions are contained in the enclosure. Questions concerning wire transfers should be directed to: Financial Operations Division (AMK-325), Federal Aviation Administration, Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, P.O. Box 269039, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73125-4915. The Financial Operations Division telephone number is (405) 954-8845. Failure to pay the $91,900 civil penalty will result in accrual of interest at the current annual rate in accordance with 31 U.S.C. § 3717, 31 C.F.R. § 901.9 and 49 C.F.R. § 89.23. Pursuant to those same authorities, a late penalty charge of six percent (6%) per annum will be charged if payment is not made within 110 days of service. Furthermore, failure to pay the civil penalty may result in referral of the matter to the Attorney General for appropriate action in a district court of the United States. COMPLIANCE ORDER The Notice proposed a compliance order with respect to the violations cited above in Item 2, 3, and 4. The Notice did not propose a compliance order for Item 1. Under 49 U.S.C. § 60118(a), each person who engages in the transportation of hazardous liquids by pipeline or who owns or operates a pipeline facility is required to comply with the applicable safety standards established under 49 U.S.C. chapter 601. PHMSA may issue an order directing compliance with these standards pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 60118(b) and 49 C.F.R. § 190.217. The Director indicated that Respondent has completed the actions proposed in the Notice to comply with § 195.569 (Item 2) and § 195.264(a) (Item 4). Accordingly, it is not necessary to include compliance terms for those items. As for the remaining compliance terms, pursuant to the authority of 49 U.S.C. § 60118(b) and 49 C.F.R. § 190.217, Respondent is ordered to take the following actions to ensure compliance with the pipeline safety regulations applicable to its operations: 1. With respect to the violation of § 195.573(e) (Item 3), Explorer must demonstrate that cathodic protection is currently adequate at each of the locations identified as “Off CP Levels Dip Below 850” in the CIS reports dated June 26, 2008 (24-inch Gerald to Weldon Springs), and July 21, 2008 (24-inch Rolla to Gerald Station). Cathodic protection must meet the applicable requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 195. 2. Explorer must submit documentation to demonstrate satisfaction of this Compliance Order within 90 days of the issuance of this Order. Submissions under this Order must be to the Director, Central Region, Office of Pipeline Safety, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, 901 Locust Street, Suite 462, Kansas City, MO 64106. CPF No. 3-2013-5009 Page 11 3. It is requested that Explorer maintain documentation of the safety improvement costs associated with fulfilling this Compliance Order and submit the total to the Director. It is requested that these costs be reported in two categories: (1) total cost associated with preparation/revision of plans, procedures, studies and analyses, and (2) total cost associated with replacements, additions and other changes to pipeline infrastructure. The Director may grant an extension of time to comply with any of the required items upon a written request timely submitted by the Respondent demonstrating good cause for an extension. Failure to comply with this Order may result in the administrative assessment of civil penalties not to exceed $200,000 for each violation for each day the violation continues or in referral to the Attorney General for appropriate relief in a district court of the United States. Under 49 C.F.R. § 190.243, Respondent may submit a petition for reconsideration of this Final Order to the Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety, PHMSA, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, East Building, 2nd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20590, no later than 20 days after receipt of the Final Order by Respondent. Any petition submitted must contain a statement of the issue(s) and meet all other requirements of 49 C.F.R. § 190.243. The filing of a petition automatically stays the payment of any civil penalty assessed, however, the other terms of the order, including the corrective action, remain in effect unless the Associate Administrator, upon request, grants a stay. The terms and conditions of this Final Order are effective upon service in accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 190.5. _____________________________ ____________________ Jeffrey D. Wiese Date Issued Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety ## Provenance - Official: Yes - Source: - Source ID: `phmsa-enforcement` - SHA-256: `786f6e6b8435065b27462de00d6bb412fa3ec8927acf630a4c17a9c00f993104` - Retrieved: 2026-08-20T04:44:44.458Z - Exported: 2026-08-22T23:05:54.114Z - Document slug: `phmsa-enforcement-320135009` ### Source metadata ```json { "cpf": "320135009", "operator": "EXPLORER PIPELINE CO", "region": "Central", "pipelineType": "INTERSTATE LIQUID ONSHORE", "caseStatus": "CLOSED", "citedSections": [ "195.264(a)", "195.569", "195.573(e)", "195.589(c)" ], "dataAsOf": "08/04/2026 12PM", "caseDataAsOf": "2026-08-04", "attachmentCount": 8, "attachments": [ { "name": "320135009_Closure Letter_01312017.pdf", "url": "https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Closure%20Letter_01312017.pdf", "bytes": 290871, "category": "agency_document" }, { "name": "320135009_Closure Letter_01312017_text.pdf", "url": "https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Closure%20Letter_01312017_text.pdf", "bytes": 64136, "category": "agency_document" }, { "name": "320135009_Final Order_07092015.pdf", "url": "https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Final%20Order_07092015.pdf", "bytes": 1124854, "category": "agency_document" }, { "name": "320135009_Final Order_07092015_text.pdf", "url": "https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Final%20Order_07092015_text.pdf", "bytes": 50515, "category": "agency_document" }, { "name": "320135009_NOPV PCP PCO_03262013.pdf", "url": "https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_NOPV%20PCP%20PCO_03262013.pdf", "bytes": 292294, "category": "agency_document" }, { "name": "320135009_NOPV PCP PCO_03262013_text.pdf", "url": "https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_NOPV%20PCP%20PCO_03262013_text.pdf", "bytes": 23757, "category": "agency_document" }, { "name": "320135009_Operator Response to Notice_05132014.pdf", "url": "https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Operator%20Response%20to%20Notice_05132014.pdf", "bytes": 167629, "category": "party_submission" }, { "name": "320135009_Operator_Response_and_Request_for_Hearing_05012013.pdf", "url": "https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/320135009/320135009_Operator_Response_and_Request_for_Hearing_05012013.pdf", "bytes": 588379, "category": "party_submission" } ], "extractedAgencyDocumentCount": 3, "attachmentPolicy": "Official attachment links are retained. Agency-issued documents may also include a verified local PDF and page-level text representation.", "jurisdiction": "US", "operatorName": "EXPLORER PIPELINE CO" } ```