# ALYESKA PIPELINE SERVICE CO — Notice of Probable Violation

- **operation:** document
- **citation:** CPF 520085014
- **title:** ALYESKA PIPELINE SERVICE CO — Notice of Probable Violation
- **source type:** enforcement
- **agency:** Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
- **status:** historical
- **official:** true
- **published on:** 2008-06-09
- **effective on:** Not available
- **summary:** CLOSED notice of probable violation citing 195.401(b), 195.402, 195.404(c)(1), 195.571.
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- **markdown:** https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-enforcement-520085014.md
- **app url:** https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-enforcement-520085014
- **source url:** https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-data/case/520085014
**body:**

Notice of Probable Violation involving ALYESKA PIPELINE SERVICE CO. PHMSA's enforcement data identifies the cited regulations as 195.401(b),  195.402,  195.404(c)(1),  195.571. The case was opened on 2008-06-09 and is reported as closed as of 2011-01-05. Proposed civil penalty: $56,000. Assessed civil penalty: $56,000. Open the official case record for notices, responses, orders, and the latest status.

Official case documents:

520085014_closure letter_01052011.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/520085014/520085014_closure%20letter_01052011.pdf

520085014_closure letter_01052011_text.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/520085014/520085014_closure%20letter_01052011_text.pdf

520085014_FinalOrder_01132010.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/520085014/520085014_FinalOrder_01132010.pdf

520085014_FinalOrder_01132010_text.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/520085014/520085014_FinalOrder_01132010_text.pdf

520085014_NOPV PCP PCO_06092008.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/520085014/520085014_NOPV%20PCP%20PCO_06092008.pdf

520085014_operator response_07142008.pdf: https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/enforcement-documents/520085014/520085014_operator%20response_07142008.pdf

520085014_NOPV PCP PCO_06092008.pdf

U.S. Department
of Transportation
Pipeline and
Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration
12300 W. Dakota Ave., Suite 110
Lakewood, CO 80228
NOTICE OF PROBABLE VIOLATION
PROPOSED CIVIL PENALTY
and
PROPOSED COMPLIANCE ORDER
CERTIFIED MAIL - RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
June 9,2008
Mr. Mike Joynor
Senior Vice President
Pipeline and Oil Movements
Alyeska Pipeline Service Company
900 East Benson Blvd.
P.O. Box 196660
Anchorage, AK 995 19-6660
CPP 5-2008-5014
Dear Mr. Joynor:
Between October 15 and 19,2007, representatives of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials
Safety Administration (PHMSA), pursuant to Chapter 601 of 49 United States Code, inspected
the Alyeska-operated Trans Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS) between Milepost 496 and
Milepost 647, including Pump Stations 9 and 10. PHMSA also inspected Alyeska records
regarding the effects of a 2006 flood on TAPS near Milepost (MP) 76 1.
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. 5 195.401 General requirements.
(b)Whenever an operator discovers any condition that could adversely affect the
safe operation of its pipeline system, it shall correct it 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.



In October 2006, severe flooding affected the TAPS right-of-way at numerous stream
crossings along the southernmost 80 miles of the pipeline. As part of our October 2007
inspection, we reviewed Alyeska's Civil Monitoring and ROW Maintenance Audit (#07-
07), dated October 8,2007. Alyeska's audit included information pertaining to flooding
at stream crossings. Our review indicates that Alyeska did not address potentially
adverse conditions caused by this flooding within a reasonable time.
Alyeska's internal audit identified an Authorization for Expenditure (AFE D400-40X)
approved on February 1, 2007, that had not been completed per its original scope. The
scope of the AFE stated,
"5 below ground pipeline scours locations will be investigated and the pipeline
will be repaired as required. One location PLMP 761.7, determined to be the
location of the most severe scour, was investigated in 2006. It was found that
during the flood, the pipeline was washed clear of overburden and minor damage
was found to have occurred to the tape coating. Investigation determined that
repairs were not immediately required and were scheduled for 2007 due to
pumping safety conditions."
Alyeska's audit also reported that near MP 761.7,
"The preliminary investigation work completed in November 2006 excavated
two separate areas of approximately 8 feet each in length for performing the
visual inspections (total scour affected area of stream was approximately 80
feet). "
Our inspection revealed that the five identified scour locations were never investigated
in 2007. The sixth at MP 761.7 was only partially investigated in 2006. Our inspections
were unable to find sufficient justification for cancellation of the planned 2007
investigations at the six sites. Alyeska's internal audit similarly found insufficient
justification for cancellation of the planned 2007 investigations at the six sites.
In an April 25,2008 letter to the Joint Pipe Office (JPO) entitled Cancellation of
Investigations at Six Identified 2006 Flood Locations, Alyeska stated,
"As a result of a significant flood event in October 2006, Alyeska Pipeline
Service Company (APSC) identified six locations (MP 745.26, MP 745.67, MP
748.05, MP 752.18, MP 761.74 (near 761.7), and MP 766.78) for investigation of
the mainline pipe for possible flood related damage."
However, based on the information (mostly MFL pig results) obtained subsequent to the
two exploratory excavations, Alyeska canceled the pipeline excavations for the six
identified sites.
PHMSA believes Alyeska did not adequately investigate and where needed, correct
adverse conditions as the six scour areas in a reasonable time (initial investigation in



2. 2006, deferredlcancelled in 2007, and rescheduled for 2008). Alyeska only excavated 16
feet of an estimated 80 feet of scour area at MP 761.73 (near MP 761.7) during 2006.
Further, Alyeska did not repair pipe or coating damage, uncovered at MP 76 1.73.
Alyeska has indicated that it plans to re-excavate and repair coatinglcathodic protection
system damage at MP 761.73 during the summer of 2008. Alyeska also recently
committed to provide PHMSA and the JPO with justification for not investigating the
other five scour areas including: how the depth of cover was determined, risk associated
from another flood event, undisturbed depth of cover, and potential for rock and snow
slides.
Evidence:
1. Photographs of damage pipe and coating.
2. Pipe investigation Report MP 761.73, North excavation.
3. Pipe investigation Report MP 761.73, South excavation.
4. OM- 1, section 6 Pipeline Repairs, pages 6- 1 and 6-2.
5 . MR-48, Table 2.1 Permissible Permanent Repair Methods, page 2-10.
6. MR-48, section 2.6.1.5.2 Repair of Pipe Surface Damage, pages 2-16 and 2-17.
7. MR-48, section 9.8.7 Repair of Damage, pages 9-30 and 9-3 1.
8. Civil Monitoring and ROW Maintenance Audit #07-07, Pages 1-3 of 14.
9. Cancellation of 2006 Flood digs, pages 1 and 2.
10. MR-48 Section 9.2 Bedding and Padding Material pages 32-39.
1 1. MR-48 Section 18 Pipe Coating Repairs, Pages 18- 1 through 18-5.
12. Alyeska's response to JPO's letter regarding Cancellation of Investigations at Six
Identified 2006 Flood Locations.
13. Alyeska's "Milepost 761.7 Excavation Risk Assessment Summary."
5 195.571 What criteria must I use to determine the adequacy of cathodic
protection?
Cathodic protection required by this subpart must comply with one or more of the
applicable criteria and other considerations for cathodic protection contained in
paragraphs 6.2 and 6.3 of NACE Standard RPOl69-96.
Five areas (MP 567.66, 574.16, 574.33, 578.95, and 579.1 8) of the pipeline were found
to have inadequate Cathodic Protection (CP). These areas of low CP readings were
confirmed by Over-the-Line Surveys conducted each year from 2003 to 2007. These
five areas of the pipeline did not meet criteria set forth in section 195.571.
Evidence:
1. Alyeska's CIS data for 2003, 1 sheet.
2. Alyeska's CIS data for 2004, 2 sheets.
3. Alyeska's CIS data for 2006,4 sheets.
4. Alyeska's CIS data for 2007,4 sheets.



3. 2. Alyeska's CIS data for 2004,2 sheets.
3. Alyeska's CIS data for 2006,4 sheets.
4. Alyeska's CIS data for 2007,4 sheets.
5 . PHMSA spread sheet of low areas, 1 sheet.
5 195.402 Procedural manual for operations, maintenance, and emergencies.
(a) General. Each operator shall prepare and follow for each pipeline system a
manual of written procedures for conducting normal operations and maintenance
activities and handling abnormal operations and emergencies. This manual shall
be reviewed at intervals not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar
year, and appropriate changes made as necessary to insure that the manual is
effective. This manual shall be prepared before initial operations of a pipeline
commence, and appropriate parts shall be kept at locations where operations and
maintenance activities are conducted.
Alyeska's manual of written operations and maintenance procedures at MP- 166-3.03,
"Facility Corrosion Integrity Monitoring" and MP- 166-3.03-0 1, "Facility Corrosion
Integrity Monitoring Engineering and Implementation," states that re-inspection
intervals are based on the intervals set forth in API 570 "Piping Inspection Code." The
"corrosion rate" referenced in API 570 is derived from measuring the difference between
actual readings of wall thicknesses over time. Alyeska presented documentation that
indicated that the following check valve by-passes were not or will not be inspected at
the intervals prescribed by API 570, as required by Alyeska's own manual of written
operations and maintenance procedures:
CV84 AB - Was last inspected by Alyeska in 2006. API 570 calculated re-
inspection interval is 2 years, based on a 30 millyr. corrosion rate. Alyeska has
scheduled the next re-inspection for 2010.
CV90 D - Was last inspected by Alyeska in 2006. API 570 calculated re-
inspection interval is 3 years, based on a 15 millyr. corrosion rate. Alyeska has
scheduled the next re-inspection for 201 6.
CV095 AB - Was last inspected by Alyeska in 2001. API 570 calculated re-
inspection interval is 4 years, based on a 13 millyr. corrosion rate. Alyeska has
scheduled the next re-inspection for 2014.
Alyeska is not following their manual of written procedures for conducting nonnal
operations and maintenance activities. Specifically, Alyeska is not following the written
procedures in MP- 166-3.03 or MP- 166-03.03-0 1 for determining re-inspection intervals
on valve bypass lines.



4. Evidence:
1. MPl66-3.03, "Facility Corrosion Integrity Monitoring", pages 1 through 9.
2. API 570, "Piping Inspection Code" pages 6-1, 6-2,6-3, 7-1, 7-3.
3. ASMEB31.3, Table A-1,page 140.
4. Alyeska's spread sheet for valve bypass inspections.
5. PHMSA analysis of Alyeska's Re-inspection Interval based API 570.
5 195.404 Maps and Records.
(c) Each operator shall maintain the following records for the periods specified;
(I) The date, location, and description of each repair made to pipe shall be
maintained for the useful life of the pipe.
Alyeska did not provide records of the wall thickness and grade for the DRA Sleeves
installed at PS 09 and PS 10. The Alignment sheets (G-100 drawings) also do not show
the DRA injection ring for PS 09. These repairs and alterations are required information
for Alyeska's MR-48, "Trans-Alaska Pipeline Maintenance and Repair Manual."
Evidence:
1. Drawing D-39-M600, "Pump Station 9 DRA Injection Annular Ring Injection
Nozzle Sections & Details".
2. OM-1, "Procedures Manual for Operations Maintenance and Emergencies", pages
10-9 through 10- 1 1.
3. Alignment sheets for PS09 & PS10.
4. As-built Data sheets showing DRA Sleeves at 28974t-27 & 30936+74.
Proposed Civil Penalty
Under 49 United States Code, 9 60122, you are subject to an administrative 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 violations and has
recommended that you be preliminarily assessed a civil penalty of $56,000 as follows:
Item Number
2
PENALTY
$56,000
Proposed Compliance Order
With respect to Items 2,3, and 4 pursuant to 49 United States Code fj 601 18, the Pipeline and
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration proposes to issue a Compliance Order to Alyeska
Pipeline Service Company. Please refer to the Proposed Compliance Order, which is enclosed
and made a part of this Notice.



Warning Items
With respect to Item 1, 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 this item. Be advised
that failure to do so may result in Alyeska Pipeline Service Company being subject to additional
enforcement action.
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 5-2008-5014 and for each document
you submit, please provide a copy in electronic format whenever possible.
S i n c e E 7&
Chris Hoidal
Director, Western Region
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
cc: PHP-60 Compliance Registry
PHP-500 B. Flanders (#I 18833)
Enclosures: Proposed Compliance Order
Response Options for Pipeline Operators in Conzpliatzce Proceedings



PROPOSED COMPLIANCE ORDER
Pursuant to 49 United States Code tj 60 1 18, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration (PHMSA) proposes to issue to Alyeska Pipeline Service Company a
Compliance Order incorporating the following remedial requirements to ensure the compliance
of Alyeska Pipeline Service Company with the pipeline safety regulations:
1. 2. 3. 5. 6. In regard to Item Number 2 of the Notice pertaining to Low CP at MP 567.66, MP
574.16, MP574.33, MP 578.95 and MP 579.18:
Within twelve (12) months of receipt of the Final Order, Alyeska shall take
appropriate action to bring the cathodic protection levels at the above-listed locations
into compliance with one or more of the applicable criteria and other considerations
for cathodic protection contained in Paragraphs 6.2 and 6.3 of NACE Standard
RPO 1 169-96 (incorporated by reference, see 6 195.3) as required by tj 195.57 1.
Alyeska shall conduct CIS at the above-listed locations and provide the results of
such CIS by September 30,2009.
In regard to Item Number 3 of the Notice pertaining to the reinspection interval for
internal corrosion based on API 5701 MP-166-3.03, "Facility Corrosion Integrity
Monitoring":
Alyeska shall properly re-determine the re-inspection intervals for check-valve
bypasses listed in the Notice in accord with Alyeska's written procedures and
specifications (API 570) and submit to PHMSA a revised inspection plan which will
ensure that Alyeska re-inspects internal corrosion in check valve bypasses in a
timely manner.
In regard to Item Number 4 of the Notice pertaining to "As-built" information of
DRA Injection Rings at PS09 & PS10:
Alyeska shall determine the wall thickness and grade of material used for the DRA
injection rings at PS09 & PS10, include this information in their "As-built" records,
and maintain these records for the life of the pipeline. Alyeska shall provide these
updated records within 180 days.
IJnless another time frame is indicated, Alyeska shall conduct the activities in the
above-listed items and submit documentation of compliance within sixty (60) days
of receipt of the Final Order.
Alyeska Pipeline Service Company shall maintain documentation of the safety
improvement costs associated with fulfilling this Compliance Order and submit the
total to Chris Hoidal, Director, Western, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration. Costs shall be reported in two categories: 1) total cost associated
with preparationfrevision of plans, procedures, studies and analyses, and 2) total cost
associated with replacements, additions and other changes to pipeline infi-astructure.

520085014_closure letter_01052011_text.pdf

CERTIFIED MAIL - RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
January 5, 2011
Mr. Mike Joynor
Senior Vice President
Alyeska Pipeline Service Company
900 East Benson Blvd.
P.O. Box 196660
Anchorage, AK 99519-6660
CPF 5-2008-5014
Dear Mr. Joynor:
On January 13, 2010, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)
issued to Alyeska Pipeline Service 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 paid on
February 4, 2010, 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,
Dennis Hinnah
Deputy Director, Western Region
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
cc: PHP-60 Compliance Registry
PHP-500 B. Flanders (#118833)

520085014_FinalOrder_01132010_text.pdf

JAN 13 2010
Mr. Mike Joynor
Senior Vice President
Oil Movements, Engineering and Pipeline
Alyeska Pipeline Service Company
900 East Benson Blvd.
P.O. Box 196660
Anchorage, AK 99519-6660
Re: CPF No. 5-2008-5014
Dear Mr. Joynor:
Enclosed is the Final Order issued in the above-referenced case. It makes findings of violation
and assesses a civil penalty of $56,000. The Final Order also specifies actions that need to be
taken by Alyeska Pipeline Service 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 are completed, as determined by the Director, Western Region,
this enforcement action will be closed. Your receipt of the Final Order constitutes service of that
document 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. Chris Hoidal, Director, Western Region, PHMSA
CERTIFIED MAIL – RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED [7005 0390 0005 6162 5258]



U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION
OFFICE OF PIPELINE SAFETY
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590
_______________________________________________
In the Matter of )
Alyeska Pipeline Service Company, ) CPF No. 5-2008-5014
)
)
)
Respondent. )
_______________________________________________ )
FINAL ORDER
From October 15 to 19, 2007, pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 60117, representatives of the Pipeline and
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS),
conducted an on-site pipeline safety inspection of the facilities and records of Alyeska Pipeline
Service Company (Alyeska or Respondent) in Anchorage, Alaska. Alyeska is the operator of the
Trans Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS), an 800-mile-long pipeline that transports crude oil from
between Milepost 496 and Milepost 647, including Pump Stations 9 and 10, along with the
Prudhoe Bay to Valdez, Alaska.1 This inspection covered those portions of the TAPS that lie
company’s records of a 2006 flood that occurred near Milepost 761.
As a result of the inspection, the Director, Western Region, OPS (Director), issued to Alyeska,
by letter dated June 9, 2008, a Notice of Probable Violation, Proposed Civil Penalty, and
Proposed Compliance Order (Notice). In accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 190.207, the Notice
proposed finding that Respondent had violated 49 C.F.R. §§ 195.571, 195.402, and 195.404, and
assessing the company a civil penalty of $56,000 for the alleged violations. The Notice also
proposed finding that Alyeska had committed a probable violation of 49 C.F.R. § 195.401, and
warned Respondent to take appropriate corrective actions or be subject to future enforcement
action.
Alyeska responded to the Notice by letter dated July 14, 2008 (Response). Respondent contested
the allegations, offered information in response to the allegations, and requested that the
proposed civil penalty be reduced. Respondent did not request a hearing and therefore has
waived its right to one.
1 http://www.alyeska-pipe.com/pipelinefacts.html (accessed Oct. 20, 2009).



2
FINDINGS OF VIOLATION
The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. Part 195, as follows:
Item 2: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.571 which states:
§ 195.571 -- What criteria must I use to determine the adequacy of
cathodic protection?
Cathodic protection required by this subpart must comply with one or
more of the applicable criteria and other considerations for cathodic
protection contained in paragraphs 6.2 and 6.3 of NACE Standard RP
0169 (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 195.3).
The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.571 by failing to have adequate
cathodic protection (CP) on the TAPS. Specifically, Respondent’s records revealed low CP
readings at Mileposts 567.66, 574.16, 574.33, 578.95, and 579.18 during close interval surveys
(CIS) conducted between 2003 and 2007.
Alyeska has not disputed this allegation. Accordingly, after considering all the evidence, I find
Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.571 by failing to have adequate CP on the TAPS at the
cited locations.
Item 4: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.404 which states:
§ 195.404 – Maps and records.
(a) . . . .
(b) . . . .
(c) Each operator shall maintain the following records for the periods
specified:
(1) The date, location, and description of each repair made to pipe
shall be maintained for the useful life of the pipe.
The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.404 by failing to maintain records
of repairs and alterations made to the TAPS. Specifically, Respondent was unable to provide
records of wall thickness and grade for the DRA Sleeves installed at Pump Stations 9 and 10.
Additionally, Respondent’s Alignment sheets (G-100 drawings) did not show the DRA injection
ring for Pump Station 9. OPS also noted that a record of such repairs and alterations must be
maintained according to Respondent’s MR-48 “Trans-Alaska Pipeline Maintenance and Repair
Manual.”
Respondent has not disputed this allegation. Accordingly, after considering all the evidence, I
find Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.404 by failing to maintain records of repairs and
alterations made to the pipeline.



3
These findings of violation will be considered a prior offense in any subsequent enforcement
action taken against Respondent.
WITHDRAWAL OF ALLEGATION
Item 3: The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.402 which states:
§ 195.402 -- Procedural manual for operations, maintenance, and
emergencies.
(a) General. Each operator shall prepare and follow for each pipeline
system a manual of written procedures for conducting normal
operations and maintenance activities and handling abnormal
operations and emergencies. This manual shall be reviewed at intervals
not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar year, and
appropriate changes made as necessary to insure that the manual is
effective. This manual shall be prepared before initial operations of a
pipeline system commence, and appropriate parts shall be kept at
locations where operations and maintenance activities are conducted.
The Notice alleged that Respondent violated 49 C.F.R. § 195.402 by failing to follow its manual
of written procedures for conducting normal operations and maintenance activities. Specifically,
the Notice alleged that, under MP-166-3.03, “Facility Corrosion Integrity Monitoring,” and MP-
166-3.03-01, “Facility Corrosion Integrity Monitoring Engineering and Implementation,” of
Alyeska’s manual, re-inspection intervals for monitoring corrosion integrity were to be
determined on the basis of the corrosion rate formula set forth in American Petroleum Institute
(API) 570, “Piping Inspection Code.” The Notice further alleged that, according to
Respondent’s own records, the following three valves on bypass piping were not inspected or
would not be inspected at the required intervals:
• CV84 AB – Respondent’s last inspection of this valve occurred in 2006. The
calculated re-inspection interval under API 570 would be 2 years based on 30
mil/yr. corrosion rate. Respondent’s next scheduled re-inspection was not until
2010.
• CV90 D – Respondent’s last inspection occurred in 2006. The calculated re-
inspection interval under API 570 would be 3 years based on 15 mil/yr. corrosion
rate. Respondent’s next scheduled re-inspection was not until 2016.
• CV095 AB – Respondent’s last inspection occurred in 2001. Therefore, the
calculated re-inspection interval under API 570 would be 4 years based on 13
mil/yr. corrosion rate. Respondent’s next scheduled re-inspection was not until
2014.
Alyeska requested in its Response that this allegation of probable violation be withdrawn. In
substantiating that request, Respondent argued that it does follow its own procedures for re-
inspection intervals on valve bypass piping. Specifically, Respondent stated that it calculates
half-life inspection intervals based on its procedures, MP-166-3.03 and MP-166-3.03-01, which
require that re-inspection interval calculations be based on a combination of RSTRENG® and



4
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) B31G, not API 570. Respondent further
argued that PHMSA incorrectly assumed Respondent’s re-inspection dates for “CV84” and
other words, Respondent argued that PHMSA incorrectly assessed Respondent’s corrosion rates
based on API 570 and erroneously assumed Respondent’s projected re-inspection intervals for
the following valves:
“CV90 D” were based on 80% remaining wall loss, not the half-life of the bypass piping.2 In
• CV84 AB – Because Respondent used a 40 mil/yr. corrosion rate based upon data from
multiple grid locations, not the API 570 30 mil/yr. corrosion rate, a re-inspection need not
occur until 2010.
• CV90 D – Because Respondent used a 20 mil/yr. corrosion rate based upon data from
multiple grid locations, not the API 570 15 mil/yr. corrosion rate, a re-inspection need not
occur until 2012.
• CV095 AB – Because Respondent used a 10 mil/yr. corrosion rate based upon data from
multiple grid locations, not the API 570 13 mil/yr. corrosion rate, a re-inspection need not
occur until 2008.3
I find Respondent’s arguments for withdrawing this probable violation persuasive. In its
Response, Alyeska provided updated copies of its procedures, MP-166-3.03 and MP-166-3.03-
01. Although Respondent made some revisions to its manual subsequent to the OPS inspection
in question, Respondent’s substantive procedures for re-inspection remained unchanged.4 in both versions of Respondent’s manual its procedure for re-inspection is stated as follows:
Thus,
Facility piping is organized or segmented into unique operating environments or
line segments (legs) to which inspection classifications are assigned in accordance
with API 570, “Piping Inspection Code – Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and
Rerating of In-Service Piping Systems.” Half-life sample inspection intervals or
frequencies are based upon projected failure dates calculated for each leg using
the RSTRENG method. The actual grid corrosion strings and an assumed or
actual corrosion rate are used to determine the future date when the leg will be in
an out-of-code condition. Actual corrosion rates may be determined from
inspection history or corrosion coupon data.5
It appears that, in reviewing Respondent’s records, OPS misinterpreted Alyeska’s procedures by
relying on incomplete documentation to calculate the re-inspection intervals for these three
valves. Specifically, Respondent’s records displayed re-inspection intervals for those valves
based on 80% remaining wall loss, not on the half-life of the bypass piping. Respondent has
2 In 2001, the date of CV095AB’s last inspection, Respondent had not yet developed MP-166-3.03-01. Thus,
Alyeska concedes in its Response that PHMSA correctly presumed that the “RSTRENG PID” date of 2014 in
Respondent’s records was the re-inspection interval for that valve.
3 Respondent recalculated the re-inspection interval for this valve based on MP-166-3.03-01 and submitted a record
of the results of that recalculation with its Response.
4 Response, Exhibit 2.
5 Section 5.1.6, MP-166-3.03, “Facility Corrosion Integrity Monitoring” (effective April 25, 2008); Section 5.1.5,
MP-166-3.03, “Facility Corrosion Integrity Monitoring” (effective April 12, 2006).



5
submitted records showing the remaining strength and half-life re-inspection intervals, Safe
Maximum Operating Pressures, and 80% wall loss of the valves. Moreover, Alyeska’s use of the
half-life of the bypass piping to determine re-inspection intervals was consistent with its
operations and maintenance procedures.
Therefore, after considering all the evidence, I find that Respondent did not violate 49 C.F.R.
§ 195.402 and therefore the probable violation alleged in Item 3 of the Notice is hereby
withdrawn.
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 $56,000 for the violations cited above.
The Notice proposed a civil penalty of $56,000 for Item 2 of the Notice for failing to have
adequate CP on the TAPS. In its Response, Alyeska requested that the civil penalty for this
violation be reduced on the basis of certain mitigating circumstances. Specifically, Respondent
noted that the results of its close interval surveys (CIS) show that, in recent years, two of the five
cited locations met the criteria in the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) SP
0169-02. Respondent further stated that it conducted those tests utilizing CP monitoring coupons
and CIS, as required by its Monitoring Procedure MP-166-3.22, Pipeline Cathodic Protection, a
procedure that uses the criteria in NACE SP 0169-2002, Sections 6.2 and 6.3, to determine the
adequacy of CP.
I do not find Respondent’s arguments persuasive. First, although the two Milepost locations
cited in Alyeska’s Response did pass the NACE SP 0169-02 CP criteria in the most recent year
tested (2007), those locations failed to meet the criteria in previous years. Specifically, Milepost
574.16 failed in 2003, 2004, and 2005 but passed in 2006 and 2007. Similarly, Milepost 574.33
failed in 2006 and passed in 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2007. Second, PHMSA already considered
these mitigating circumstances identified by Alyeska in calculating the proposed civil penalty
amount. Indeed, the Pipeline Safety Violation Report (Violation Report), CPF. 5-2008-5014
(signed April 4, 2008), contains the CIS data sheets for 2003, 2004, 2006, and 2007 that
Respondent cites as evidence in favor of mitigation. In other words, Respondent’s bases for
requesting a reduction in the civil penalty are already reflected in the original amounts proposed
in the Notice.



6
Accordingly, having reviewed the record and considered the assessment criteria, I assess
Respondent a total civil penalty of $56,000.
Payment of the civil penalty must be made within 20 days of service. Federal regulations
(49 C.F.R. § 89.21(b)(3)) require this payment 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, OK 73125; (405) 954-8893.
Failure to pay the $56,000 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 United
States District Court.
COMPLIANCE ORDER
The Notice proposed a compliance order with respect to Items 2 , 3 and 4 for violations of 49
C.F.R. §§ 195.571 and 195.404 respectively. As discussed above I withdrew the probable
violation alleged in Item 3 of the Notice. Therefore, the compliance order item associated with
that allegation is also withdrawn.
In its Response, Alyeska requested that the proposed compliance order for Item 2 be withdrawn.
Respondent argued that it has developed a broad mitigation plan for known low CP areas, which
was discussed with PHMSA at a meeting conducted on May 1, 2008. Moreover, Respondent
contends that it has developed an action plan to add continuous anodes powered by a remote
plan for reaching compliance of this item, it has not fully implemented this plan to achieve
persuasive.
wind/solar generator in 2009 at the five locations.6 While Respondent has developed an action
compliance. Therefore, I do not find Respondent’s argument for withdrawal of Item 2 to be
Respondent also objected to the proposed completion date for this item. I have taken into
account factors, such as project season and weather, in setting the completion date required by
this Order.
Under 49 U.S.C. § 60118(a), each person who engages in the transportation of hazardous liquids
or who owns or operates a pipeline facility is required to comply with the applicable safety
standards established under chapter 601. 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:
6 I note that Respondent has installed wind generators to correct low CP levels in the past, but those generators did
not provide enough power to maintain CP levels. Use of such unsuccessful methods could fail to meet the objective
of the compliance order for this item.



7
1. With respect to the violation of § 195.571 (Item 2), Respondent must, within 12 months
of receipt of the Final Order, take appropriate action to bring the cathodic protection
(CP) levels at Milepost 567.66, Milepost 574.16, Milepost 574.33, Milepost 578.95, and
Milepost 579.18, into compliance with one or more of the applicable criteria and other
considerations for CP contained in Paragraphs 6.2 and 6.3 of the NACE Standard
RP01169-96 as required by § 195.571. Respondent must conduct a Close Interval Survey
(CIS) at the above-listed locations and provide the results of such CIS by September 30,
2010.
2. With respect to the violation of § 195.404 (Item 4), Respondent must determine the wall
thickness and grade of material used for the DRA Injection Rings at PS09 and PS10,
include this information in its “As-built” records, and maintain these records for the life
of the pipeline. Respondent must provide these updated records within 180 days of
receipt of the final order.
3. Respondent must maintain documentation of the safety improvement costs associated
with fulfilling this Compliance Order and submit the total to Chris Hoidal, Director,
Western Region, Office of Pipeline Safety, 12300 W. Dakota Ave. #110, Lakewood, CO
80228. Costs must 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
documentation of the costs must be submitted within 60 days of completion of
Compliance Order Item #1.
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 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.
WARNING ITEM
With respect to Item 1, the Notice alleged probable violations of Part 195 but did not propose a
civil penalty or compliance order for these items. Therefore, these are considered to be warning
items. The warning was for:
49 C.F.R. § 195.401 (Notice Item 1) – Respondent’s alleged failure to adequately
investigate and where needed, correct adverse conditions of six scour areas in a
reasonable time. Specifically, in October 2006, severe flooding affected the TAPS right-
of-way (ROW) at numerous stream crossings along the southernmost 80 miles of the
pipeline. During the October 2007 inspection, PHMSA’s inspectors reviewed
Respondent’s Civil Monitoring and ROW Maintenance Audit (Audit), dated October 8,
2007. PHMSA’s inspection revealed that five scour locations identified in the Audit
were never investigated in 2007 due to cancellation of the investigations by Respondent.



8
Moreover, a sixth scour location identified in the Audit was only partially investigated in
2006. PHMSA’s inspectors were unable to find sufficient justification for Respondent’s
cancellation of the planned 2007 investigations of the six sites. Respondent’s Audit
similarly found insufficient justification. At the time of inspection, Respondent had
excavated only 16 feet of an estimated 80 feet scour area at Milepost 761.73 (near
Milepost 761.7) during 2006. Further, Respondent did not repair pipe or coating damage,
uncovered at Milepost 761.73. Respondent indicated it planned to re-excavate and repair
coating/cathodic protection system damage at Milepost 761.73 during the summer of
2008.
Having considered such information, I find, pursuant to 49 C.F.R. § 190.205, that a probable
violation of 49 C.F.R. § 195.401 (Notice Item 1) has occurred. Alyeska presented information
in its Response showing that it had taken certain actions to address the cited items. If OPS finds
a violation for this item 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 Rec
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