# CHEVRON U.S.A. INC — Notice of Probable Violation

**Citation:** CPF 420119001  
**Type / status:** enforcement / historical  
**Agency:** Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration  
**Effective:** Not stated  
**Published:** 2011-08-09

CLOSED notice of probable violation citing 192.10, 192.13(a), 192.317, 192.465(b), 192.805, 195.404(a).

## Document text

Notice of Probable Violation involving CHEVRON U.S.A. INC. PHMSA's enforcement data identifies the cited regulations as 192.10,  192.13(a),  192.317,  192.465(b),  192.805,  195.404(a). The case was opened on 2011-08-09 and is reported as closed as of 2014-04-09. Proposed civil penalty: $93,600. Assessed civil penalty: $93,600. Open the official case record for notices, responses, orders, and the latest status.

Official case documents:

420119001_Closure_04092014.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/420119001/420119001_Closure_04092014.pdf

420119001_Closure_04092014_text.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/420119001/420119001_Closure_04092014_text.pdf

420119001_Final Order_06142012.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/420119001/420119001_Final%20Order_06142012.pdf

420119001_Final Order_06142012_text.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/420119001/420119001_Final%20Order_06142012_text.pdf

420119001_NOPV PCP PCO_08092011.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/420119001/420119001_NOPV%20PCP%20PCO_08092011.pdf

420119001_NOPV PCP PCO_08092011_text.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/420119001/420119001_NOPV%20PCP%20PCO_08092011_text.pdf

420119001_Operator Response Notice_09062011.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/420119001/420119001_Operator%20Response%20Notice_09062011.pdf

420119001_Closure_04092014_text.pdf

CERTIFIED MAIL - RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
April 9, 2014
Mr. Warner Williams
Vice President GOM
Chevron USA Inc.
100 Northpark Blvd
Covington, LA 70433
CPF 4-2011-9001
Dear Mr. Williams:
On June 14, 2012, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued a Final
Order in the above referenced case. The Final Order made findings of violation, assessed a civil penalty, and
included a Compliance Order that specified actions to be taken by Chevron, USA Inc. to comply with the
pipeline safety regulations. Among other things, the required actions included the development and
implementation of written conversion-to-service plans for two specified offshore pipelines in the Bay and
Field in accordance with the applicable provisions of 49 C.F.R. Parts 192 and 195.
After requesting and receiving an extension of time, by letter dated December 19, 2012, Chevron submitted a
conversion-to-service plan for one of the pipelines, a 6-inch diameter oil pipeline segment designated as ST-
0164. With respect to the other line, a 6-inch diameter gas pipeline designated as SN-375, Chevron informed
PHMSA that the line was out of service and undergoing an evaluation of its future utility, and that Chevron
was requesting a further extension of time to submit the required conversion-of-service plan for this line. By
letter dated December 19, 2012, PHMSA granted the requested extension until March 31, 2013.
By letter dated March 25, 2013, Chevron informed PHMSA that it was proceeding with the permitting of a
new pipeline to replace line SN-375 and requested closure of the Compliance Order. PHMSA understands
this to mean that Chevron has completed the process of permanently decommissioning line SN-375 in
accordance with 49 C.F.R. §192.727 and Chevron’s decommissioning/abandonment procedures. On that
basis, Chevron may consider the Compliance Order to be closed. If, however, the decommissioning is not
permanent and any future operation of line SN-375 is contemplated, Chevron or its successors will remain
responsible for satisfying the conversion-to-service requirements prior to such operation.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
R. M. Seeley
Director, Southwest Region
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

420119001_Final Order_06142012_text.pdf

JUNE 14, 2012
Mr. Gary Luquette
President
Chevron USA Inc.
1500 Louisiana Street
Houston, TX 77002
Re: CPF No. 4-2011-9001
Dear Mr. Luquette:
Enclosed please find the Final Order issued in the above-referenced case. It makes findings of
violation, assesses a civil penalty of $93,600, and specifies actions that need to be taken by
Chevron USA Inc., 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, Southwest Region, this
enforcement action will be closed. Service of the Final Order by certified mail is deemed
effective upon the date of mailing, or as otherwise provided under 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. Warner Williams, Vice-President, Gulf of Mexico, Chevron USA Inc.
100 Northpark Boulevard, Covington, LA 70433
Mr. Alan Mayberry, Deputy Associate Administrator for Field Operations, OPS
Mr. Rod M. Seeley, Director, Southwest Region, OPS
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 )
Chevron USA Inc., ) CPF No. 4-2011-9001
)
)
)
Respondent. )
____________________________________)
FINAL ORDER
Between March 2010 and December 2010, pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 60117, a representative of the
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), Office of Pipeline Safety
(OPS), inspected Chevron USA Inc.’s (Chevron or Respondent) records and facilities in
Covington, Lafayette, Cameron, and LaFourche Parishes, Louisiana. OPS also inspected the
company’s Gulf of Mexico offshore facilities in West Cameron, Bay Marchand, and Grand Isle.
Chevron operates 35 miles of jurisdictional natural gas and crude oil pipelines from its offshore
production facilities.
1
As a result of these inspections, the Director, Southwest Region, OPS (Director), issued to
Respondent, by letter dated August 9, 2011, a Notice of Probable Violation, Proposed Civil
Penalty, and Proposed Compliance Order (Notice), which also included a warning pursuant to
49 C.F.R. § 190.205. In accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 190.207, the Notice proposed finding that
Chevron had committed various violations of 49 C.F.R. Part 192 and 195 and assessing a civil
penalty of $93,600 for the alleged violations. The warning items required no further action but
warned the operator to correct the probable violations or face future potential enforcement
action.
Upon requesting and receiving an extension of time to respond, Chevron responded to the Notice
by letter dated September 6, 2011 (Response). The company did not contest the probable
violations but requested a modification of the proposed compliance order. Respondent did not
request a hearing and therefore has waived its right to one.
FINDINGS OF VIOLATION
In its Response, Chevron did not contest the allegation in the Notice that it violated
49 C.F.R. § Parts 192 and 195, as follows:
1 OPS Pipeline Safety Violation Report (August 8, 2011), at 1.



2
Item 1: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.10 and 195.9, which state,
in relevant part:
§ 192.10 Outer continental shelf pipelines.
Operators of transportation pipelines on the Outer Continental Shelf
(as defined in the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act; 43 U.S.C. 1331)
must identify on all their respective pipelines the specific points at which
operating responsibility transfers to a producing operator….
§ 195.9 Outer continental shelf pipelines.
Operators of transportation pipelines on the Outer Continental Shelf
must identify on all their respective pipelines the specific points at which
operating responsibility transfers to a producing operator. For those
instances in which the transfer points are not identifiable by a durable
marking, each operator will have until September 15, 1998 to identify the
transfer points. If it is not practicable to durably mark a transfer point and
the transfer point is located above water, the operator must depict the
transfer point on a schematic maintained near the transfer point. If a
transfer point is located subsea, the operator must identify the transfer
point on a schematic which must be maintained at the nearest upstream
facility and provided to PHMSA upon request. For those cases in which
adjoining operators have not agreed on a transfer point by September 15,
1998 the Regional Director and the MMS Regional Supervisor will make
a joint determination of the transfer point.
The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.10 and 195.9 by failing to identify
the demarcation point between production and transportation pipeline facilities in certain areas.
Specifically, Chevron did not identify where piping changed from production to transportation
for the Grand Isle Block Number 27 platform R, the Bay Marchand Block Number 2 platform
C&I, and the Bay Marchand Block Number 3 platform K&N. The demarcation points for these
facilities could neither be visibly located nor could Chevron provide the required schematic
drawings depicting the transfer points.
In its Response, Chevron stated that its Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) were
available for review during the OPS inspection but did not contest the allegation of violation.
Chevron stated that it had nevertheless re-marked the demarcation points, provided pictures of
the new markings in its Response, and submitted the P&IDs for PHMSA’s review. On account
of the evidence provided in the Response, Chevron requested that PHMSA remove Item #1 from
the proposed compliance order.
I find that Chevron was not in compliance with the pipeline safety regulations at the time of the
inspection since the demarcation points were not visible and the OPS inspector was not given a
copy of the relevant schematic drawings. Therefore, based upon a review of all of the evidence,
I find that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.10 and 195.9 by failing to identify the transfer
point from production to transportation on the listed facilities. The terms of the Compliance
Order will be addressed in that section of the Final Order below.



3
Item 2: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.13 and 195.5, which state,
in relevant part:
§ 192.13 What general requirements apply to pipelines regulated
under this part?
(a) No person may operate a segment of pipeline listed in the first
column that is readied for service after the date in the second column,
unless:
(1) The pipeline has been designed, installed, constructed, initially
inspected, and initially tested in accordance with this part; or
(2) The pipeline qualifies for use under this part according to the
requirements in § 192.14. . . .
§ 195.5 Conversion to service subject to this part.
(a) A steel pipeline previously used in service not subject to this part
qualifies for use under this part if the operator prepares and follows a
written procedure to accomplish the following:
(1) The design, construction, operation, and maintenance history of
the pipeline must be reviewed and, where sufficient historical records are
not available, appropriate tests must be performed to determine if the
pipeline is in satisfactory condition for safe operation. If one or more of
the variables are necessary to verify the design pressure under § 195.106
or to perform the testing under paragraph (a)(4) of this section is
unknown, the design pressure may be verified and the maximum operating
pressure determined by-
(i) Testing the pipeline in accordance with ASME B31.8, Appendix
N, to produce a stress equal to the yield strength; and
(ii) Applying, to not more than 80 percent of the first pressure that
produces a yielding, the design factor F in § 195.106(a) and the
appropriate factors in § 195.106(e).
(2) The pipeline right-of-way, all aboveground segments of the
pipeline, and appropriately selected underground segments must be
visually inspected for physical defects and operating conditions which
reasonably could be expected to impair the strength or tightness of the
pipeline.
(3) All known unsafe defects and conditions must be corrected in
accordance with this part.
(4) The pipeline must be tested in accordance with subpart E of this
part to substantiate the maximum operating pressure permitted by
§ 195.406.
(b) A pipeline that qualifies for use under this section need not
comply with the corrosion control requirements of subpart H of this part
until 12 months after it is placed into service, notwithstanding any
previous deadlines for compliance.
(c) Each operator must keep for the life of the pipeline a record of the
investigations, tests, repairs, replacements, and alterations made under the
requirements of paragraph (a) of this section.



4
The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.13 and 195.5 by failing to prepare
and follow written conversion-to-service procedures and to maintain records demonstrating that
the applicable conversion-to-service requirements were implemented for certain pipelines now
operated as ones regulated by U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). It further alleged that
Chevron’s own procedures required that a written plan and records regarding the conversion to
service be developed and maintained. Specifically, there were no records available of a
conversion-to-service plan for the six-inch gas line between Grand Isle 37R and Bay Marchand
Block Number 3 C&I. Chevron began using this line on December 19, 2008, and it was still in
service at the time of the OPS inspection when Chevron was unable to produce the records.
In regards to the six-inch oil line running from Bay Marchand Block Number 3 platform E to
Bay Marchand Block Number 3 platform C&I, Chevron also could not produce any conversion-
to-service procedures or records for this line. Chevron began using the line on July 3, 2010, yet
could not produce any conversion-to-service records for the line at the time of the OPS
inspection.
In its Response, Chevron did not contest the allegation of violation and agreed to pay the civil
penalty and comply with the proposed compliance order. Accordingly, based upon a review of
all of the evidence, I find that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.13 and 195.5 by failing to
prepare and follow written conversion-to-service procedures and to maintain proper records
demonstrating that the applicable conversion-to-service requirements were implemented for
these lines.
Item 4: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.805 and 195.505, which
state, in relevant part:
§ 192.805 Qualification program.
Each operator shall have and follow a written qualification program.
The program shall include provisions to:
(a) Identify covered tasks;
(b) Ensure through evaluation that individuals performing covered
tasks are qualified;
(c) Allow individuals that are not qualified pursuant to this subpart to
perform a covered task if directed and observed by an individual that is
qualified; ….
§ 195.505 Qualification program.
Each operator shall have and follow a written qualification program.
The program shall include provisions to:
(a) Identify covered tasks;
(b) Ensure through evaluation that individuals performing covered
tasks are qualified;
(c) Allow individuals that are not qualified pursuant to this subpart to
perform a covered task if directed and observed by an individual that is
qualified; ….



5
The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.805 and 192.505 by failing to
ensure, under its operator qualification (OQ) program, that a certain covered task was performed
by a qualified individual. Specifically, the Notice alleged that according to Chevron’s
procedures, inspection of the Sabine Gas Plant rectifier was a covered task and therefore all
inspections of the rectifier had to be conducted by a qualified individual. It alleged, however,
that a qualified individual only inspected the Sabine Gas Plant rectifier once between April 1,
2008, and February 20, 2010. Non-qualified individuals carried out the other inspections
conducted during this period.
In its Response, Chevron did not contest the allegation of violation and agreed to pay the civil
penalty and comply with the proposed compliance order. Chevron also stated that it had taken
steps to avoid noncompliance in the future. Accordingly, based upon a review of all of the
evidence, I find that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.805 and 195.505 by failing to ensure
that the covered task of rectifier inspections was performed by a qualified individual.
Item 6: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.465 and 195.573, which
state, in relevant part:
§ 192.465 External corrosion control: Monitoring.
(a) . . .
(b) Each cathodic protection rectifier or other impressed current
power source must be inspected six times each calendar year, but
with intervals not exceeding 2½ months, to insure that it is
operating.
§ 195.573 What must I do to monitor external corrosion control?
(a) . . .
(c) Rectifiers and other devices. You must electrically check for
proper performance each device in the first column at the frequency
stated in the second column.
Device Check frequency
Rectifier …………………
Reverse current switch.
Diode.
Interference bond whose failure
Would jeopardize structural
protection….
At least six times each calendar
year, but with intervals not
exceeding 2½ months.
The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.465 and 192.573 by failing to
inspect certain rectifiers for proper performance within the required interval. The Sabine Gas
Plant rectifier supplies cathodic protection current for both the six-inch oil line and the 18-inch
gas line. This device is required by both Parts 192 and 195 to be inspected six times per year, at
intervals not exceeding 2½ months. The Notice alleged that although Chevron had supplied
documentation indicating that readings on the voltmeter and ammeter dials were taken, there was



6
no indication that the meters had ever been checked for accuracy. In addition, no documentation
was provided for the time period from August 29, 2008, to February 14, 2009.
In its Response, Chevron did not contest the allegation of violation and agreed to pay the civil
penalty. Chevron also stated that it had discovered this non-compliance and taken steps to
address it prior to the inspection. This proactive conduct and the evidence supporting it will be
reviewed in the Assessment of Penalty section below.
Accordingly, based upon a review of all of the evidence, I find that Respondent violated
49 C.F.R. §§ 192.465 and 195.573 by failing to perform proper rectifier inspections within the
required interval.
These findings of violation will be considered prior offenses in any subsequent enforcement
action taken against Respondent.
ASSESSMENT OF PENALTY
Under 49 U.S.C. § 60122, 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. In determining the amount of a civil penalty under
49 U.S.C. § 60122 and 49 C.F.R. § 190.225, I must consider the following criteria: the nature,
circumstances, and gravity of the violation, including adverse impact on the environment; the
degree of Respondent’s culpability; the history of Respondent’s prior offenses; the Respondent’s
ability to pay the penalty and any effect that the penalty may have on its ability to continue doing
business; and the good faith of Respondent in attempting to comply with the pipeline safety
regulations. In addition, I may consider the economic benefit gained from the violation without
any reduction because of subsequent damages, and such other matters as justice may require.
The Notice proposed a total civil penalty of $93,600 for the violations cited above.
Item 2: The Notice proposed a civil penalty of $27,200 for failing to follow written conversion-
to-service procedures and to maintain records demonstrating that the applicable conversion-to-
service requirements were implemented for certain pipelines now operated as DOT pipelines. In
its Response, Chevron agreed to pay the proposed civil penalty.
The civil penalty amount for this Item is based on the civil penalty assessment factors listed in
49 C.F.R. § 190.225, including, but not limited to, culpability, gravity, duration of the violation,
and prior enforcement history of the operator. As stated in the Violation Report, the non-
compliance posed a significant threat to pipeline safety, even though no accident occurred.
Chevron has not presented any evidence or arguments that would justify a reduction in the
proposed penalty amount. Having reviewed the penalty factors and the facts of this case, I find
that the proposed civil penalty of $27,200 is justified. Accordingly, I assess Respondent a civil
penalty of $27,200.
Item 4: The Notice proposed a civil penalty of $33,200 for failing to ensure that a certain
covered task was performed by a qualified individual. In its Response, Chevron agreed to pay
the proposed civil penalty.



7
The civil penalty amount for this Item is based on the civil penalty assessment factors listed in
49 C.F.R. § 190.225, including but not limited to, culpability, gravity, duration of the violation,
and prior enforcement history of the operator. As stated in the Violation Report, the non-
compliance posed a significant threat to pipeline safety, even though no accident occurred.
Chevron has not presented any evidence or arguments that would justify a reduction in the
proposed penalty amount. Having reviewed the penalty factors and the facts of this case, I find
that the proposed civil penalty of $33,200 is justified. Accordingly, I assess Respondent a civil
penalty of $33,200.
Item 6: The Notice proposed a civil penalty of $33,200 for failing to fully perform certain
required rectifier inspections within the required interval. In its Response, Chevron agreed to
pay the civil penalty amount but noted that it had discovered the non-compliance and taken
necessary steps to correct the violation before the OPS inspection.
The civil penalty amount for this Item is based on the civil penalty assessment factors listed in
49 C.F.R. § 190.225, including but not limited to, culpability, gravity, duration of the violation,
and prior enforcement history of the operator. I would note that the proposed penalty for this
Item was already reduced in light of the fact that Chevron discovered the violation prior to the
OPS inspection and took action to address the problem. Accordingly, having reviewed the
penalty factors and the facts of this case, I find that the proposed civil penalty of $33,200 is
justified. Accordingly, I assess Respondent a civil penalty of $33,200.
In summary, having reviewed the record and considered the assessment criteria for each of the
Items cited above, I assess Respondent a total civil penalty of $93,600.
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 (AMZ-341), Federal Aviation Administration, Mike
Monroney Aeronautical Center, P.O. Box 269039, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73125. The
Financial Operations Division telephone number is (405) 954-8893.
Failure to pay the $93,600 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 Items 1, 2, and 4 in the Notice for
violations of 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.10, 195.9, 192.13, 195.5, 192.805, and 195.505, respectively.
Under 49 U.S.C. § 60118(a), each person who engages in the transportation of gas or hazardous
liquids or who owns or operates a pipeline facility is required to comply with the applicable



8
safety standards established under chapter 601. The Director indicates that Respondent has taken
the following actions specified in the proposed compliance order:
With respect to the violations of § 49 C.F.R. §§ 192.10 and 195.9 (Item 1),
Respondent has provided pictures of the demarcation points that were re-marked,
demonstrating compliance with this item.
Accordingly, I find that compliance has been achieved with respect to these violations.
Therefore, the compliance terms proposed in the Notice for Item 1 are not included in this Order.
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 violations of §§ 192.13 and 195.5 (Item 2), Respondent must
develop a conversion-to-service plan and perform and document the necessary actions
to ensure these lines are fit for the service intended for use. Chevron must provide
PHMSA with the written plan, as well as the records demonstrating compliance with
the plan.
2. With respect to the violations of §§ 192.805 and 195.505 (Item 4), Respondent
must ensure that all covered tasks are performed by qualified individuals. If
personnel are performing covered tasks but have not been qualified, then Chevron
must take the necessary steps to qualify them or ensure that they only perform the
tasks while observed by qualified individuals. Chevron must complete the rectifier
inspections by qualified individuals.
3. Chevron must complete Compliance Items 1 and 2 within 90 days of receipt of the
Final Order. Chevron must submit documentation verifying compliance with both
items to the Director, Southwest Region, within 30 days of completing the actions.
4. It is requested (not mandated) that Chevron maintain documentation of the safety
improvement costs associated with fulfilling this Compliance Order and submit the
total to the Director.
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 and demonstrating good cause for an
extension.
Failure to comply with this Order may result in the administrative assessment of civil penalties
not to exceed $100,000 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.



9
WARNING ITEMS
The Notice alleged probable violations of Parts 192 and 195 specifically considered to be
warning items. The warning were for:
49 C.F.R. § 192.317 (Item 3) ─ Respondent’s alleged failure to protect
a portion of its system from hazards and potential damage. The OPS
inspector discovered structural steel and cable debris on the pipeline
risers at Bay Marchand Block Number 3 platform C&I. On September
16, 2010, Chevron indicated that it had removed the structural steel from
the risers.
49 C.F.R. § 195.404 (Item 5) ─ Respondent’s alleged failure to maintain
current maps and records for its pipeline systems. During the inspection,
Chevron personnel were observed using an old map that lacked the
required attributes and detail. In its Response, Chevron stated that this
map was for internal use and was not intended to demonstrate
compliance with § 195.404.
If OPS finds a violation of these provisions in a subsequent inspection, Respondent may be
subject to future enforcement action.
Under 49 C.F.R. § 190.215, Respondent has a right to submit a Petition for Reconsideration of
this Final Order. The petition must be sent to: Associate Administrator, Office of Pipeline
Safety, PHMSA, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE, East Building, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC
20590, with a copy sent to the Office of Chief Counsel, PHMSA, at the same address. PHMSA
will accept petitions received no later than 20 days after receipt of service of this Final Order by
the Respondent, provided they contain a brief statement of the issue(s) and meet all other
requirements of 49 C.F.R. § 190.215. The filing of a petition automatically stays the payment of
any civil penalty assessed. Unless the Associate Administrator, upon request, grants a stay, all
other terms and conditions of this Final Order are effective upon service in accordance with
49 C.F.R. § 190.5.
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

420119001_NOPV PCP PCO_08092011_text.pdf

NOTICE OF PROBABLE VIOLATION
PROPOSED CIVIL PENALTY
and
PROPOSED COMPLIANCE ORDER
CERTIFIED MAIL - RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
August 9, 2011
Mr. Warner Williams
Vice President GOM
Chevron USA Inc.
100 Northpark Blvd
Covington, LA 70433
CPF 4-2011-9001
Dear Mr. Williams:
During the months of March 2010 through May 2010, a representative of the Pipeline and
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) pursuant to Chapter 601 of 49 United
States Code was onsite and inspected your procedures records and facilities in Covington,
Lafayette, Cameron and LaFourche Parish, LA; and the Gulf of Mexico offshore facilities in the
West Cameron, Bay Marchand and Grand Isle areas. Subsequent follow up inspection activities
continued until December 2010. Chevron USA operates both natural gas and hazardous liquid
pipelines in this area so an inspection involving both Parts 192 and 195 was performed.
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 violation(s) are:
1. §192.10 Outer continental shelf pipelines.
Operators of transportation pipelines on the Outer Continental Shelf (as defined in
the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act; 43 U.S.C. 1331) must identify on all their
respective pipelines the specific points at which operating responsibility transfers to
a producing operator.



§195.9 Outer continental shelf pipelines.
Operators of transportation pipelines on the Outer Continental Shelf must identify
on all their respective pipelines the specific points at which operating responsibility
transfers to a producing operator. For those instances in which the transfer points
are not identifiable by a durable marking, each operator will have until September
15, 1998 to identify the transfer points. If it is not practicable to durably mark a
transfer point and the transfer point is located above water, the operator must
depict the transfer point on a schematic maintained near the transfer point. If a
transfer point is located subsea, the operator must identify the transfer point on a
schematic which must be maintained at the nearest upstream facility and provided
to PHMSA upon request. For those cases in which adjoining operators have not
agreed on a transfer point by September 15, 1998 the Regional Director and the
MMS Regional Supervisor will make a joint determination of the transfer point.
Chevron USA did not identify the demarcation between production and transportation pipeline
facilities in certain areas. Chevron USA did not identify where the piping changed from
production to transportation on natural gas and oil transportation facilities on platforms:
• Grand Isle Block Number 37 platform R
• Bay Marchand Block Number 3 platform C&I
• Bay Marchand Block Number 3 platform K&N
When these demarcation points could not be visually located during the field portion of the
inspection, PHMSA requested that Chevron USA provide the schematic that would show these
demarcations and identify which piping was subject to DOT requirements and which piping was
subject to DOI requirements. Chevron USA did not produce a schematic depicting the transfer
point and how it was maintained at the nearest upstream facility.
2. §192.13 What general requirements apply to pipelines regulated under this part?
(a) No person may operate a segment of pipeline that is readied for service listed in
the first column that is readied for service after the date in the second column,
unless:
(1) The pipeline has been designed, installed, constructed; initially inspected,
and initially tested in accordance with this part; or
(2) The pipeline qualifies for use under this part according to the requirements
in §192.14.
§195.5 Conversion to service subject to this part.
(a) A steel pipeline previously used in service not subject to this part qualifies for
use under this part if the operator prepares and follows a written procedure to
accomplish the following:
(1) The design, construction, operation, and maintenance history of the pipeline
must be reviewed, and where sufficient historical records are not available,
appropriate tests must be performed to determine if the pipeline is in
satisfactory condition for safe operation. If one or more of the variables are2



necessary to verify the design pressure under §195.106 or to perform the testing
under paragraph (a) (4) of this section is unknown, the design pressure may be
verified and the maximum operating pressure determine by-
(i) Testing the pipeline in accordance with ASME B31.8, Appendix N, to
produce a stress equal to the yield strength; and
(ii) Applying, to not more than 80 percent of the first pressure that
produces a yielding, the design factor F in §195.106(a) and the appropriate
factors in §195.106(e).
(2) The pipeline right-of-way, all aboveground segments of the pipeline, and
appropriately selected underground segments must be visually inspected for
physical defects and operating conditions which reasonably could be expected
to impair the strength or tightness of the pipeline.
(3) All known unsafe defects and conditions must be corrected in accordance
with this part.
(4) The pipeline must be tested in accordance with the subpart E of this part to
substantiate the maximum operating pressure permitted by §195.406.
(c) Each operator must keep for the life of the pipeline a record of the
investigations, tests, repairs, replacements, and alterations made under the
requirements of paragraph (a) of this section.
Chevron USA failed to follow written conversion to service procedures and maintain records
demonstrating that the applicable conversion to service requirements were implemented for
certain pipelines being operated as DOT pipelines that were not previously in DOT service.
Chevron USA’s written operating and maintenance procedures (Chevron USA DOT Manual
section 170) and 49 CFR Parts 192 and 195 require that a written plan and records regarding the
conversion to service of pipelines not previously operated under 49 CFR Part 192 and 195 be
developed and maintained.
Specifically, Chevron USA did not demonstrate that a written plan was followed and there were
no records available regarding the conversion to service to 49 CFR Part 192 for the 6” gas line
between Grand Isle 37R and Bay Marchand Block Number 3 C&I (6” Gas). Chevron began
using the 6” Gas line on December 19, 2008 and it was still in service at the time of the audit.
Prior to this it was operated under DOI requirements. Chevron USA did not demonstrate that
the applicable conversion to service requirements were implemented or produce any conversion
to service records when these materials were requested by PHMSA’s inspector.
A written plan was not followed and there were no records available regarding the conversion to
service to 49 CFR Part 195 for the 6 inch oil line from Bay Marchand Block Number 3 platform
E to Bay Marchand Block Number 3 platform C&I (6” Oil). Chevron began using the 6” Oil
line July 3, 2010. Chevron USA did not demonstrate that the applicable conversion to service
requirements were implemented or produce any conversion to service records when these
materials were requested by PHMSA’s inspector.
3



One observation during the field portion that indicates that a pipeline condition survey was not
completed per §195.5 is that the incoming riser at Bay Marchand Block Number 3 platform E
was unsupported due to pipe supports corroding and had become unattached from the platform.
This pipeline was under hydro test at the time of inspection. Subsequent to the inspection Chevron
USA indicated via email dated June 14, 2010, that the riser clamp and valve support repairs at
Bay Marchand Block Number 3 platform E had been completed by June 13, 2010.
3. §192.317 Protection from hazards.
(a) The operator must take all practicable steps to protect each transmission line or
main from washouts, floods, unstable soil, landslides, or other hazards that may
cause the pipeline to move or to sustain abnormal loads. In addition, the operator
must take all practicable steps to protect offshore pipelines from damage by mud
slides, water currents, hurricanes, ship anchors, and fishing operations
(b) Each above ground transmission line or main, not located offshore or in inland
navigable water areas, must be protected from accidental damage by vehicular
traffic or other similar causes, either by being placed at a safe distance from the
traffic or by installing barricades.
(c) Pipelines, including pipe risers, on each platform located offshore or in inland
navigable waters must be protected from accidental damage by vessels.
Chevron USA did not take steps to protect a portion of its pipeline system from hazards and
potential damage. During the field portion of the inspection there was structural steel and cable
debris observed to be lying on the pipeline risers at Bay Marchand Block Number 3 Platform
C&I. Chevron USA indicated via email dated September 16, 2010 that the structural steel had
been removed from the risers.
4. §192.805 Qualification Program. §195.505 Qualification Program
Each operator shall have and follow a written qualification program. The program
shall include provisions to:
(a) Identify covered tasks;
(b) Ensure through evaluation that individuals performing covered tasks are
qualified;
(c) Allow individuals that are not qualified pursuant to this subpart to perform a
covered task if directed and observed by an individual that is qualified;
Chevron USA did not ensure that certain covered tasks, rectifier inspections, were performed by
a qualified individual. The Sabine Gas Plant rectifier was only inspected once between April 1,
2008 and February 20, 2010 by an OQ qualified individual. While it was checked by non-
qualified individuals on a more frequent basis, records provided in connection with the audit
indicate that this OQ qualified individual was actually only qualified to perform covered task
CT04 (rectifier maintenance and repair).
The Sabine Gas Plant rectifier supplies cathodic protection current for both the 6-inch oil line
and the 18-inch gas line. This device is required by both Parts 192 and 195 to be inspected six
4



times a year with intervals not exceeding 2 ½ months. Inspecting this rectifier is identified as a
covered task per the regulations and Chevron USA’s procedures (Task CT03). All inspections of
this covered task must be performed by a qualified person.
5. §195.404 Maps and Records.
(a) Each operator shall maintain current maps and records of its pipeline systems
that include at least the following information;
(1) Location and identification of the following pipeline facilities;
(i) Breakout tanks;
(ii) Pump stations;
(iii) Scraper and sphere facilities;
(iv) Pipeline valves;
(v) Facilities to which §195.402(c)(9) applies;
(vi) Rights-of-way; and
(vii) Safety devices to which §195.428 applies.
(2) All crossings of public roads, railroads, rivers, buried utilities, and foreign
pipelines.
(3) The maximum operating pressure of each pipeline.
(4) The diameter, grade, type, and nominal wall thickness of all pipes.
Chevron USA was observed using a map for operations that was not up to date. A map was
observed in operational use during the field portion of the inspection and a copy was requested
from Chevron USA. An email response was received from Chevron USA’s DOT Pipeline
Specialist on June 4, 2010 stating:
“The map that you saw offshore is an old 1995 map that we do not distribute, as it is not
an up-to-date, accurate depiction of the field. Unfortunately, this map has not been kept
updated, and we do not have an electronic version. It is only used internally as a general
reference because it is scaled. I’ve attached a copy of the drawing depicting the
DOT/DNR pipelines in the field that I gave you during the records review. This is the
drawing that I use as a reference for the Bay Marchand DOT/DNR pipelines.”
The referenced diagram was used during the inspection and was a schematic that was lacking the
required attributes and detail, as required per §195.404.
6. §192.465 External corrosion control: Monitoring.
(b) Each cathodic protection rectifier or other impressed current power source
must be inspected six times each calendar year, but with intervals not exceeding 2
1/2 months, to insure that it is operating.
§195.573 What must I do to monitor external corrosion control?
(a) Protected pipelines. You must do the following to determine whether cathodic
protection required by this subpart complies with Sec. 195.571:
(2) For the period in the first column, the second column prescribes the frequency5



of evaluation.
(c) Rectifiers and other devices. You must electrically check for proper
performance each device in the first column at the frequency stated in the second
column.
Device Check frequency
Rectifier At least six times per calendar year but with
intervals not exceeding 2 ½ months.
Chevron did not fully perform certain required rectifier inspections within the required interval.
The Sabine Gas Plant rectifier supplies cathodic protection current for both the 6 inch oil line and
the 18 inch gas line. This device is required by both Parts 192 and 195 to be inspected six times
a year with intervals not exceeding 2 ½ months. Although documentation provided by Chevron
USA indicates that readings were taken from the volt meter and ammeter dials on the rectifier on
an approximately monthly or more frequent interval from July 6, 2007 to August 29, 2008 and
February 14, 2009 to June 5, 2010, there was no indication that the meters on the rectifier case
were ever checked for accuracy by the use of a calibrated meter. In addition, no documentation
of readings between August 29, 2008 and February 14, 2009 was supplied, possibly due to
hurricane Ike storm damage. The individual performing the monthly rectifier inspections is not
indicated on the documentation, with the exception of a notation on the August 2008 and May
2009 reports being prepared by James Goins. As per item 4, documentation provided by
Chevron USA substantiates that the Sabine Gas Plant rectifier was only checked once between
April 1, 2008 and February 20, 2010 by an OQ qualified individual.
Proposed Civil Penalty
Under 49 United States Code, § 60122, you are subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $100,000
for each violation for each day the violation persists up to a maximum of $1,000,000 for any
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 $93,600 as follows:
Item number PENALTY
Item 2 $27,200
Item 4 $33,200
Item 6 $33,200
Warning Items
With respect to items 3 and 5 we have reviewed the circumstances and supporting documents
involved in this case and have decided not to conduct additional enforcement action or penalty
assessment proceedings at this time. We advise you to promptly correct these item(s). Be
advised that failure to do so may result in Chevron USA being subject to additional enforcement
action.
6



Proposed Compliance Order
With respect to item(s) 1, 2, and 4 pursuant to 49 United States Code § 60118, the Pipeline and
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration proposes to issue a Compliance Order to Chevron
USA. 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 4-2011-9001 and for each document
you submit, please provide a copy in electronic format whenever possible.
Sincerely,
R. M. Seeley
Director, Southwest Region
Pipeline and Hazardous
Materials Safety Administration
Enclosures: Proposed Compliance Order
Response Options for Pipeline Operators in Compliance Proceedings
7



PROPOSED COMPLIANCE ORDER
Pursuant to 49 United States Code § 60118, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration (PHMSA) proposes to issue to Chevron USA (Chevron) a Compliance Order
incorporating the following remedial requirements to ensure the compliance of Chevron USA
with the pipeline safety regulations:
1. In regard to Item Number 1 of the Notice pertaining to identifying where the
piping changed from production to transportation on oil and natural gas
transportation facilities, Chevron must mark all such locations in accordance with
49 CFR §192.10 and 49 CFR §195.9. If marking the lines is not practical then
Chevron USA must maintain a schematic depicting the transfer point at the
nearest upstream facility.
2. In regard to Item Number 2 of the Notice pertaining to conversion to service
Chevron must develop a conversion to service plan and perform and document the
necessary actions to ensure these line are fit for the service they are to be used for
and in compliance with 49 CFR §192.13 and 49 CFR §195.5. Chevron shall
provide the written plan to accomplish the conversion as well as all records to
demonstrate compliance with the plan.
3. In regard to Item Number 4 of the Notice pertaining to Operator Qualification,
Chevron USA must ensure that all covered tasks are performed by qualified
individuals. If personnel are performing covered tasks and are not qualified then
Chevron should take the necessary steps to qualify them or ensure that they only
perform the tasks while observed by qualified individuals. Chevron must
complete the rectifier inspections by qualified individuals.
4. Complete items 1 through 3 within 90 days of receipt of the Final Order. Submit
documentation verifying compliance to R. M. Seeley, Director, Southwest
Region, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration within 30 days
of completing the actions.
5. It is requested (not mandated) that Chevron maintain documentation of the safety
improvement costs associated with fulfilling this Compliance Order and submit
the total to R. M. Seeley, Director, Southwest Region, Pipeline and Hazardous
Materials Safety Administration. 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.
8

## Provenance

- Official: Yes
- Source: <https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-data/case/420119001>
- Source ID: `phmsa-enforcement`
- SHA-256: `fcf1c1b87861d6568784262a16b57f70119434d867779051f4d847a68a6a4bdb`
- Retrieved: 2026-08-20T04:44:44.458Z
- Exported: 2026-08-24T13:48:21.986Z
- Document slug: `phmsa-enforcement-420119001`

### Source metadata

```json
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  "operator": "CHEVRON U.S.A. INC",
  "region": "Southwest",
  "pipelineType": "GAS INTERSTATE LIQUID OFFSHORE",
  "caseStatus": "CLOSED",
  "citedSections": [
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    "192.317",
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    "195.404(a)"
  ],
  "dataAsOf": "08/04/2026 12PM",
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```