{"operation":"document","citation":"PHMSA la2013ngprogramevaluation","title":"2013 LA NG Program Evaluation - la2013ngprogramevaluation (Louisiana; Natural Gas State Program Evaluation)","source_type":"inspection","agency":"Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration","status":"historical","official":true,"published_on":"2013-01-01","effective_on":null,"summary":"2013 PHMSA natural gas program evaluation for Louisiana.","machine_formats":{"json":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-la-ng-program-evaluation-la2013ngprogramevaluation.json","markdown":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-la-ng-program-evaluation-la2013ngprogramevaluation.md"},"app_url":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-la-ng-program-evaluation-la2013ngprogramevaluation","source_url":"https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/docs/subdoc/716/la2013ngprogramevaluation.pdf","body":"1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington DC 20590 U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation for Louisiana Department of Natural Resources Document Legend PART: O -- Representative Date and Title Information A -- Progress Report and Program Documentation Review B -- Program Inspection Procedures C -- Program Performance D -- Compliance Activities E -- Incident Investigations F -- Damage Prevention G -- Field Inspections H -- Interstate Agent State (If Applicable) I -- 60106 Agreement State (If Applicable) DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 1\n\n2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation -- CY 2013 Natural Gas State Agency: Louisiana Rating: Agency Status: 60105(a): Yes 60106(a): No Interstate Agent: No Date of Visit: 06/25/2014 - 08/15/2014 Agency Representative: James Mergist, Director Pipeline Division PHMSA Representative: Patrick Gaume Commission Chairman to whom follow up letter is to be sent: Name/Title: James H. Welsh, Commissioner Agency: Louisiana Department of Natural Resources-Office of Conservation Address: 617 North Third St., 9th floor City/State/Zip: Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802 INSTRUCTIONS: Complete this evaluation in accordance with the Procedures for Evaluating State Pipeline Safety Program. The evaluation should generally reflect state program performance during CY 2013 (not the status of performance at the time of the evaluation). All items for which criteria have not been established should be answered based on the PHMSA representative's judgment. A deficiency in any one part of a multiple part question should be scored as needs improvement. Determine the answer to the question then select the appropriate point value. If a state receives less then the maximum points, include a brief explanation in the space provided for general comments/regional observations. If a question is not applicable to a state, select NA. Please ensure all responses are COMPLETE and ACCURATE, and OBJECTIVELY reflect state program performance. Increasing emphasis is being placed on performance. This evaluation together with selected factors reported in the state's annual progress report attachments provide the basis for determining the state's pipeline safety grant allocation. Field Inspection (PART G): The field inspection form used will allow different areas of emphasis to be considered for each question. Question 13 is provided for scoring field observation areas. In completing PART G, the PHMSA representative should include a written summary which thoroughly documents the inspection. Scoring Summary PARTS Possible Points Points Scored A Progress Report and Program Documentation Review 10 10 B Program Inspection Procedures 15 15 C Program Performance 46 43 D Compliance Activities 15 15 E Incident Investigations 9 9 F Damage Prevention 8 8 G Field Inspections 11 11 H Interstate Agent State (If Applicable) 0 0 I 60106 Agreement State (If Applicable) 0 0 TOTALS 114 111 State Rating................................................................................................................................................... 97.4 DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 2\n\nPART A - Progress Report and Program Documentation Review Points(MAX) Score 1 Accuracy of Jurisdictional Authority and Operator/Inspection Units Data - Progress Report Attachment 1 (A1a) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: A1. Yes. Jurisdictional authority is correctly reported. 1 1 2 Review of Inspection Days for accuracy - Progress Report Attachment 2 (A1b) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: A2. YES. 864 man-days. The report matches internal source spreadsheets 1 1 3 Accuracy verification of Operators and Operators Inspection Units in State - Progress Report Attachment 3 (A1c) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: A3. YES. Attachment 3 is consistent with Attachment 1 and the internal spreadsheet 1 1 4 Were all federally reportable incident reports listed and information correct? - Progress Report Attachment 4 (A1d) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: A4. YES. The ten incidents (10 significant) are verified 1 1 5 Accuracy verification of Compliance Activities - Progress Report Attachment 5 (A1e) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: A5. YES. The report is consistent with the prior year and internal worksheets 1 1 6 Were pipeline program files well-organized and accessible? - Progress Report 2 2 Attachment 6 (A1f, A4) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: A6. YES. The official files are still paper for most things, but all inspections of the last 5 years are electronic. Necessary information is printed out and placed in the citation file. Citations and historical files will need to be scanned and imported into the electronic database at a future date when the electronic files become the official files. 7 Was employee listing and completed training accurate and complete? - Progress Report Attachment 7 (A1g) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: A7. Yes 1 1 8 Verification of Part 192,193,198,199 Rules and Amendments - Progress Report Attachment 8 (A1h) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: A8. Yes 1 1 DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 3\n\n9 List of Planned Performance - Did state describe accomplishments on Progress Report in 1 1 detail - Progress Report Attachment 10 (H1-3) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: A9. YES. In 2013 LDNR is active on four NAPSR Committees. LDNR continues to provide associate staff to TQ. LDNR enforces current Federal Regulations and provides technical information to the LA Legislature to make changes as needed in State Laws. LDNR will complete PAPEE inspections. LDNR will complete the first round of DIMP inspections in 2014. LDNR will continue to perform the next round of OQ inspections. LDNR will continue to perform standard inspections per their five year rotation schedule. LDNR will investigate to conclusion all reportable incidents. LDNR will continue to work with the Louisiana Common Ground Alliance to collect data from their Virtual Dirt program. 10 General Comments: Info Only Info Only Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: A10. YES. In 2013 LDNR is active on four NAPSR Committees. LDNR continues to provide associate staff to TQ. LDNR enforces current Federal Regulations and provides technical information to the LA Legislature to make changes as needed in State Laws. LDNR has helped create and works closely with the LA Common Ground Alliance and has established a working relationship with the State Police to encourage the use and enforcement of excavation damage violations. Yes; Risk Reduction: The Pipeline Division works closely with the State Police and LA One Call to improve compliance with the one call law and enforcement efforts as well as with the LA Regional CGA to enhance the one call law. In addition, the Pipeline Division's goal of visiting 100% of operators with some type of inspection annually results in increased visibility throughout the state which enhances our public safety efforts. LDNR is involved in monitoring four Cast Iron replacement programs and one PVC replacement program. LDNR continues to be very active in NAPSR; by actively participating on four committees: Public Awareness, Grant Allocation & Strategic Planning; the Gathering Line, and Control Room Management committees. They also support NAPSR and PHMSA requests for information. LDNR actively participates in the quarterly Louisiana Regional Common ground alliance meetings. LDNR participates with and supports the efforts of Coastal And Marine Operators (CAMO) Pipeline Industry Initiative whose main purpose is to explore and discuss issues and challenges in preventing spills, releases, and damage to coastal and marine pipelines and environments. LDNR helps organize and co-sponsors the annual Pipeline Safety Seminars for Hazardous Liquid and Natural Gas operators. LDNR works closely with the State Police and LaOneCall to promote 811 and implement safe excavation practices. Total points scored for this section: 10 Total possible points for this section: 10 DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 4\n\nPART B - Program Inspection Procedures Points(MAX) Score 1 Standard Inspections (B1a) 2 2 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: B1. Yes, all are addressed: Pipeline Safety Operations Manual, General Criteria Section, Section 6: Part 2.1.1- PAPEE by 12/31/2013 & DIMP by 12/31/14 & then every 5 calendar years thereafter; Part 2.1.2-Standard Inspections on a 5 yr. inspection cycle; Part 2.1.3-LIMP HQ re-inspections by end of 2014 & then every 5 calendar years thereafter; Part 2.1.4-OQ HQ re-inspections by end of 2015 & then every 5 calendar years thereafter; Part 2.1.5-D&A re-inspections by end of 2014 & then every 5 calendar years thereafter; Part 2.1.6- TIMP HQ re-inspections were completed in 2012 and then every 5 calendar years thereafter; Part 4.1-Constr- construction notice is required and inspection is 'as needed' with actual practice to concentrate on major construction sites; Part 4.2-Operator Training-formal is per oper requests, Seminars, & conferences, informal is during any operator contact or inspection as requested; Part 4.5-Incident- as determined by the Program Manager and generally includes all significant events; Part 4.6-Damage Prevention- is part of a Std insp; Part 4.7-Follow-up (re- inspections)? within a reasonable amount of time (normally about 90 days) after the expiration of the time allowed to achieve compliance. 2 IMP Inspections (including DIMP) (B1b) 1 1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: B2. Yes, Pipeline Safety Operations Manual, General Criteria Section, Section 6: Part 2.1.1- PAPEE by 12/31/2013 & DIMP by 12/31/14 & then every 5 calendar years thereafter; Part 2.1.3-LIMP HQ re-inspections by end of 2014 & then every 5 calendar years thereafter; Part 2.1.6- TIMP HQ re-inspections were completed in 2012 and then every 5 calendar years thereafter. 3 OQ Inspections (B1c) 1 1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: B3. Yes, Pipeline Safety Operations Manual, General Criteria Section, Section 6: Part 2.1.4-OQ HQ re-inspections by end of 2015 & then every 5 calendar years thereafter. 4 Damage Prevention Inspections (B1d) 1 1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Std insp. B4. Yes, Pipeline Safety Operations Manual, General Criteria Section, Section 6: Part 4.6-Damage Prevention- is part of a 5 On-Site Operator Training (B1e) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 1 Evaluator Notes: B5. Yes, Pipeline Safety Operations Manual, General Criteria Section, Section 6: Part 4.2-Operator Training-formal is per oper requests, Seminars, & conferences, informal is during any operator contact or inspection as requested. 6 Construction Inspections (B1f) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 1 Evaluator Notes: B6. Yes, Pipeline Safety Operations Manual, General Criteria Section, Section 6: Part 4.1-Constr- construction notice is required and inspection is 'as needed' with actual practice to concentrate on major construction sites. 7 Incident/Accident Investigations (B1g) 2 2 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: B7. Yes, Pipeline Safety Operations Manual, General Criteria Section, Section 6: Part 4.5-Incident- as determined by the Program Manager and generally includes all significant events. DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 5\n\n8 Does inspection plan address inspection priorities of each operator, and if necessary each 6 6 unit, based on the following elements? (B2a-d, G1,2,4) Yes = 6 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1-5 a. Length of time since last inspection Yes No Needs Improvement b. Operating history of operator/unit and/or location (includes leakage, incident and compliance activities) Yes No Needs Improvement c. Type of activity being undertaken by operators (i.e. construction) Yes No Needs Improvement d. Locations of operators inspection units being inspected - (HCA's, Geographic areas, Population Density, etc) Yes No Needs Improvement e. Process to identify high-risk inspection units that includes all threats - (Excavation Damage, Corrosion, Natural Forces, Outside Forces, Material and Welds, Equipment, Yes No Needs Improvement Operators and any Other Factors) f. Are inspection units broken down appropriately? Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: B8. Yes, Pipeline Safety Operations Manual, General Criteria Section, Section 6: Part 2.0 & Part 3.2. Also the 'Gas Operator Prioritization Model' & 'Liquid Operator Prioritization Model' spreadsheets. The Gas Operator & Liquid Operator prioritization risk model spreadsheets have been developed (originally from IMP) that are being adapted to all Operators. The model spreadsheets impact the areas of emphasis during the annual inspections. Elements include compliance issues, accidents, leaks, product transported, population density, MAOP as a % of SMYS, total miles of pipeline, corrosion control, & operator responsiveness. Units are created by Operator, pipe location, Operator management unit, etc. The risking program has been in use since IMP. 9 General Comments: Info Only Info Only Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: B9. LDNR is dedicated to being transparent, is making data easily available to the public, is committed to data evaluation for self-improvement, understands the emphasis on accident/incident investigations, and has scheduled its personnel for training beyond what is provided by PHMSA T&Q. LDNR's goal of achieving 100% Gas Unit inspections per year, either Std or special, was missed in 2013 (at 70%) due to emphasis on the PAPEI inspections, the training of two new inspectors, and that 3 senior inspectors retired/resigned. LDNR continues to actively support the Louisiana Common Ground Alliance. LDNR continues to make personnel available to support NAPSR and PHMSA initiatives. Total points scored for this section: 15 Total possible points for this section: 15 DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 6\n\nPART C - Program Performance Points(MAX) Score 1 Was ratio of Total Inspection person-days to total person days acceptable? (Director of State Programs may modify with just cause) Chapter 4.3 (A12) Yes = 5 No = 0 A. Total Inspection Person Days (Attachment 2): 864.00 B. Total Inspection Person Days Charged to the Program (220 X Inspection Person Years) (Attachment 7): 220 X 8.40 = 1848.92 Ratio: A / B 864.00 / 1848.92 = 0.47 If Ratio >= 0.38 Then Points = 5, If Ratio < 0.38 Then Points = 0 Points = 5 Evaluator Notes: C1. Yes.864 AFO insp-days, 8.40 insp-yrs. 864/(8.40*220)=0.468. .468>.38. okay. 5 5 2 Has each inspector and program manager fulfilled the T Q Training Requirements? (See 5 5 Guidelines for requirements) Chapter 4.4 (A8-A11, G19) Yes = 5 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1-4 a. Completion of Required OQ Training before conducting inspection as lead? Yes No Needs Improvement b. Completion of Required DIMP*/IMP Training before conducting inspection as lead? *Effective Evaluation CY2013 Yes No Needs Improvement c. Root Cause Training by at least one inspector/program manager Yes No Needs Improvement d. Note any outside training completed Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: C2. YES. for 2013 they are in compliance with the State Guidelines with the 3 yr. attend & 5 yr. complete rule for new staff. State training- Most inspectors attend the annual 195 Seminar & the 192 Seminar. In addition, several staff attended the 8 hr. LSU HAZWOPER REFRESHER COURSE. Some new hires are taking the La Gas Assn one day Seminars on pipe joining, line locating, first aid, leak detection, fire safety, & regulator equipment. Operator training ? Held the annual T&Q Pipeline Safety Seminar, Conducted and Co-sponsored the annual small gas operator seminar in October, 2013. There were also several individual operator training sessions, usually associated with an inspection. Non-operator/public training? no activities in 2010, 2011, 2012, or 2013. Dana Arabie (TSI 299 11/03) & Jacques Rotolo (TSI 299 9/04) were the OQ Leads in 2013. Both have left State service by early 2014. For 2014, One other inspectors & two Supervisors are OQ certified. IMP Leads were Dana Arabie (TSI 297 6/05, TSI 294 8/02, CBT are completed) & Jacques Rotolo (TSI 297 4/06, TSI 294 7/04, CBT are completed) in 2013. IMP inspections are on hold for 2014 waiting on certifying new Lead Inspectors. 3 Did state records and discussions with state pipeline safety program manager indicate adequate knowledge of PHMSA program and regulations? Chapter 4.1,8.1 (A5) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: C3. YES. The Program Manager & records review show a professional knowledge of the regulations. 2 2 4 Did state respond to Chairman's letter on previous evaluation within 60 days and correct or address any noted deficiencies? (If necessary) Chapter 8.1 (A6-7) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 2 2 Evaluator Notes: C4. Yes, 12/4/13 sent, 2/4/14 reply, add a few days for mail delivery & severe ice storm office closing; okay. Both items were addressed, 1 of the items, civil penalties to be substantially the same, require legislative support and that support is proving difficult to find. DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 7\n\n5 Did State hold PHMSA TQ Seminar in Past 3 Years? Chapter 8.5 (A3) 2 2 Yes = 2 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: C5. Yes, in the July 22nd week, 2013, in the July 23th week, 2012, 3rd week of July 2011, 3rd week of July 2010 & the 2nd week of July 2009. Practice is to schedule every year over the last week of July. The 2014 Seminar was held the week of July 21st, 2014. 6 Did state inspect all types of operators and inspection units in accordance with time intervals established in written procedures? Chapter 5.1 (B3) Yes = 5 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1-4 5 2 Evaluator Notes: C6. NI 2 of 5 pts. 4 IMP inspections (3 HL & 1 NG) were missed in 2013 and all of the IMP inspections scheduled for 2014 will be rescheduled for 2015-2017. Dana & Jacques are greatly missed. Guidance concerning the start of CRM inspections has not been received and they have been postponed in favor of PAPEI & DIMP. Several D&A have missed the 5 yr. re- inspection interval for the Long Form. Several OQ inspections were missed or not completed. Last year's problem with some Master Meter Operators not being OQ'd was corrected and those inspections are current. Operations Manual Guidelines are incorporated and Units are tracked through a spread sheet program which tracks Std and special inspections, IM, OQ, PAP, CRM, & D&A. 7 Did inspection form(s) cover all applicable code requirements addressed on Federal 2 2 Inspection form(s)? Did State complete all applicable portions of inspection forms? Chapter 5.1 (B4-5) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: C7. YES. the LDNR Forms for OQ, IMP, & Standard inspections are created from the current Federal Forms. Reviewed the closed incident & accident reports: 20130051, 20130081, 20130006, 20130042, 20130033, 20130209, 20130197, 20130132, 20130266, 20130022, 20130079, 20130126, &20130251; all okay. Reviewed the following inspections: Dana Arabie-GIMP-39089, Chroma Operating, Inc., okay Dana Arabie-GIMP-39389, Enterprise Products Operating LLC., okay Jacques Rotolo-OQ-42673, Valero Refining, page 2 was missed and section 7.01 lacked detail. The inspection could be defended with local knowledge; Okay enough. Jacques Rotolo-OQ-43991, Chesapeake Midstream, okay. Wayne Leger & Brian Flores-Special Standard-44289, Town of Mamou, gas loss concern from newspaper & citizen request, several PV identified, okay. Paul Arabie-PAPEI-42729&42730, Boardwalk Louisiana Midstream (HL&NG), aka Petrologistics olefins, LLC opid 20160, violations found & fines assessed. okay Mark Champagne-Construction-42769, Crosstex LIG, to replace pipe lost to a sinkhole in Assumption Parish. Okay. Tina Guilliams-Standard-CLEPCO, 39490, Letter of Warning, okay. Walter Blocker-Standard-MM-42389-East LA Mental Health/Forensic Division, Several PV & $1000 Fine, okay. Ronald Day-PAPEI-41329-Town of Chatham, many PV & $1250 Fine. Okay. Jamie Burns-MM-Standard-LDHH-North support & Service Center; 42929, one PV & a Corrective Action Order. Okay. Jason Cole-Standard-38931, Town of Hornbeck, okay. Dana Arabie-LIMP-39390, Promix/Enterprise., okay Ronald Day-Incident (Gas Gathering)-34329, okay 8 Did the state review operator procedures for determining if exposed cast iron pipe was examined for evidence of graphitization and if necessary remedial action was taken? (NTSB) Chapter 5.1 (B7) Yes = 1 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: C8. Yes, it is in the Distribution Std Inspection Form. See subpart M, 192.489. 1 1 9 Did the state review operator procedures for surveillance of cast iron pipelines, including appropriate action resulting from tracking circumferential cracking failures, study of leakage history, or other unusual operating maintenance condition? (Note: See GPTC Appendix G-18 for guidance) (NTSB) Chapter 5.1 (B8) 1 1 DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 8\n\nYes = 1 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: C9. Yes. it is in the Distribution Std Inspection Form. See subpart M, 192.489. 10 Did the state review operator emergency response procedures for leaks caused by excavation damage near buildings and determine whether the procedures adequately address the possibility of multiple leaks and underground migration of gas into nearby buildings Refer to 4/12/01 letter from PHMSA in response to NTSB recommendation P-00-20 and P-00-21? (NTSB) Chapter 5.1 (B9) Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 Evaluator Notes: C10. Yes. review procedures during inspections & assure pipeline is leak surveyed from the meter to the mainline during incident investigations. Added a comment at 192.615(A)(7) to check both pipe ends whenever a line gets impacted or pulled. 11 Did the state review operator records of previous accidents and failures including reported third party damage and leak response to ensure appropriate operator response as required by 192.617? Chapter 5.1 (B10,E5) Yes = 1 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: 1 1 C11. YES. it is on the Std Insp Form, per 192.617, and all accidents are followed up with most having on-site investigation. 12 Has the state reviewed Operator Annual reports, along with Incident/Accident reports, for 2 2 accuracy and analyzed data for trends and operator issues? Data Initiative (G6-9,G16) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: C12. YES. As outlined in the LDNR SOP Sec 6 Part 6, the reports are reviewed by an Engineer for completeness, miles of pipe, & lost and unaccounted for gas and trends it relative to prior years. Also, pipeline mileage is used for assessing user fees so it is closely monitored. Reportable incidents are investigated relative to minimizing future events, including those due to excavation damage. Performance indicators include incidents per 1000 miles of pipe; # of inspections performed; # of probable violations; # of probable violations corrected. Tracking data includes incidents per 1000 miles of jurisdictional pipe; total miles of jurisdictional pipe; # of reportable incidents; costs due to reportable incidents; injuries due to reportable incidents; & deaths due to reportable incidents; these numbers are disaggregated to determine national numbers and LDNR State numbers. (Spreadsheet name is Monthly Performance Indicator Report which is summed for the Calendar year). Reports are received, follow-up is made, paperwork is checked, lessons learned are derived, Incident causes and regulatory compliance are determined, and site visits are usually made. Inspector duties are strongly outlined in SOP section 11. 13 Did state input all applicable OQ, IMP inspection results into federal database in a timely 2 2 manner? This includes replies to Operator notifications into IMDB database. Chapter 5.1 (G10-12) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: C13. YES. All of the OQ and IMP inspections for 2012 have been uploaded, typically within 1 month of the inspection. The focus in 2012 was to conduct Protocol 9 OQ inspections of operators with emphasis on the covered task for valves and corrosion control, & to close out any open OQ violations. The emphasis changed to full OQ HQ 2nd round Inspections in the 2nd half of 2012. The IMP emphasis was to finish GIMP for all operators. DIMP was started in 2011 with DIMP inspections of two operators. 2013 was mostly dedicated to getting the PAPEI Inspections completed. LDNR target for the first round completion of DIMP is for 12/31/2014. 14 Has state confirmed intrastate transmission operators have submitted information into NPMS database along with changes made after original submission? (G14) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: C14. YES. This was added in 2009 onto question 192.605(b)(3) on the Standard Inspection. 1 1 DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 9\n\n15 Is the state verifying operators are conducting drug and alcohol tests as required by 2 2 regulations? This should include verifying positive tests are responded to in accordance with program. 49 CFR 199 (I1-3) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: C15. YES. 199.101, 199.103, 199.113, and 199.117 are referenced in detail in the LDNR Drug & Alcohol Form which includes Fed Form 13 and much of Fed Form #3.1.11. In addition Fed Form #3.1.11 is used during HQ D&A inspections. This issue is addressed on the Fed Form #3.1.11 on question A.02.b. 16 Is state verifying operators OQ programs are up to date? This should include verification 2 2 of any plan updates and that persons performing covered tasks (including contractors) are properly qualified and requalified at intervals determined in the operators plan. 49 CFR 192 Part N (I4-7) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: C16. Yes. All Operators have been OQ inspected and re-inspections are scheduled to be complete by 12/31/2015. The focus in 2012 was to conduct Protocol 9 OQ inspections of operators with emphasis on the covered task for valves and corrosion control, & to close out any open OQ violations. The emphasis changed to full OQ HQ 2nd round Inspections in the 2nd half of 2012. The issue with some Master Meter Operators not to have had OQ inspections in 2012 was corrected in 2013. 17 Is state verifying operator's gas transmission integrity management programs (IMP) are 2 2 up to date? This should include a previous review of IMP plan, along with monitoring progress on operator tests and remedial actions. In addition, the review should take in to account program review and updates of operators plan(s). 49 CFR 192 Subpart 0 (I8-12) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: C17. YES. All Operators have been contacted. All Operators have either declared they have prepared a GIMP program or declared they have no HCAs through using Protocol A. GIMP inspections are being conducted and uploaded into the fed database every year. The remaining Operators were being inspected in 2013. As of 5/12 all Operators have had their first inspection. As of 5/12 the impact radii has been verified, compliance with subpart O has been checked, and integrity assessments and remedial actions have been checked for compliance with their plan for all intrastate gas operators in LA. Gas Operators were submitting semi-annual reports for miles of HCA. Changes of HCA reported are followed up on. Starting in 2011 the information is reported in the Annual Reports. Due to retirements the GIMP inspections scheduled for 2014 have been postponed to 2015-2017. 18 Is state verifying operator's gas distribution integrity management Programs (DIMP)? This should include a review of DIMP plans, along with monitoring progress. In addition, the review should take in to account program review and updates of operators plan(s). 49 CFR 192 Subpart P DIMP ? First round of program inspections should be complete by December 2014 2 2 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: C18. Yes, 5 DIMP inspections have been done through 12/31/2013 which represents the majority of distribution mileage in LA. The completed forms are being uploaded into the Fed database. LDNR is focused on the 12/31/2014 DIMP deadline. 19 Is state verifying operators Public Awareness programs are up to date and being followed. State should also verify operators have evaluated Public Awareness programs for effectiveness as described in RP1162. 49 CFR 192.616 (I13-16) PAPEI Effectiveness Inspections should be complete by December 2013 2 2 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: C19. Yes, 314 of the 324 required PAPEI inspections are done, but the rest were completed after 12/31/2013. The completed forms are uploaded into the Fed database. This project is now complete. DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 10\n\n20 Does the state have a mechanism for communicating with stakeholders - other than state 1 1 pipeline safety seminar? (This should include making enforcement cases available to public). (G20-21) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: C20. YES. LDNR is providing a Pipeline Safety Seminar every year instead of every 3rd year, Helped create the Louisiana Common Ground Alliance, had one small gas operator seminar in 2013, Have a close association with LA One Call and with the State Police for excavation enforcement. The LDNR website is up and running. The public has access to all pipeline inspections on the website since March, 2008. Access to pre 2009 inspections requires an office visit. Attend the LA DIG LAW Advisory Comm Mtg at least annually. 21 Did state execute appropriate follow-up actions to Safety Related Condition (SRC) Reports? Chapter 6.3 (B6) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: C21. Yes. SRCR are tracked by Steve Giambrone & Mark Champagne, & updates are sent to the Feds. 1 1 22 Did the State ask Operators to identify any plastic pipe and components that has shown a 1 1 record of defects/leaks and what those operators are doing to mitigate the safety concerns? (G13) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: C22. Yes. This has been added as question 192.703(b) on the Standard Inspection. Empirical information indicates almost all bad plastic pipe has already been replaced. Leak histories are monitored to find high leak areas to identify areas with potential bad plastic pipe. 23 Did the state participate in/respond to surveys or information requests from NAPSR or PHMSA? (H4) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: C23. Yes. LDNR works with NAPSR, TQ, NTSB, PHMSA, and is on various committees. 1 1 24 If the State has issued any waivers/special permits for any operator, has the state verified conditions of those waivers/special permits are being met? This should include having the operator amend procedures where appropriate. Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: Info Only Info Only C24. Yes, but no longer applies; it was a temporary waiver to maintain the MAOP in a Class Location change. 25 General Comments: Info Only Info Only Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: C25 LDNR is dedicated to being transparent, is making data easily available to the public, is committed to data evaluation for self-improvement, understands the emphasis on accident/incident investigations, and has scheduled its personnel for additional training. Total points scored for this section: 43 Total possible points for this section: 46 DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 11\n\nPART D - Compliance Activities Points(MAX) Score 1 Does the state have written procedures to identify steps to be taken from the discovery to 4 4 resolution of a probable violation? Chapter 5.1 (B12-14, B16, B1h) Yes = 4 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1-3 a. Procedures to notify an operator (company officer) when a noncompliance is identified Yes No Needs Improvement b. Procedures to routinely review progress of compliance actions to prevent delays or breakdowns Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: D1. YES. In the LA Administrative Code (LAC 33 LIQUID, & LAC 43 GAS), & is cross referenced to the Pipeline Operations Manual. Through experience, a standard form has been developed. The compliance action specifies the time available for response, and each inspector is responsible to ensure the time frames are adhered to or time extensions are justified. Managers hold inspectors accountable for the timely handling of compliance actions. The Pipeline Division uses a spread sheet maintained by Steven Giambrone to track dates of inspection, citation, time limit for response, targeted re- inspection due date, actual re-inspection date, outcome, & closure dates. 2 Did the state follow compliance procedures (from discovery to resolution) and adequately 4 4 document all probable violations, including what resolution or further course of action is needed to gain compliance? Chapter 5.1 (B11,B18,B19) Yes = 4 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1-3 a. Were compliance actions sent to company officer or manager/board member if municipal/government system? Yes No Needs Improvement b. Were probable violations documented? Yes No Needs Improvement c. Were probable violations resolved? Yes No Needs Improvement d. Was the progress of probable violations routinely reviewed? Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: D2. YES. The inspection reports and violation letters are kept electronically in the Unit files and Citation files. The files are being kept indefinitely; there has been no decision to discard or delete and files. They also use an internal document ? 'Re-Inspection Form' & if the operator response is sufficient, the form is used to document closure of the compliance action. Also see Form PLS-OR-1: Organization Report, Also see Pipeline Operations Manual, Glossary, Noncompliance. 3 Did the state issue compliance actions for all probable violations discovered? (B15) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 2 2 Evaluator Notes: procedures. D3. YES. there were 39 Natural Gas actions in 2013. Reviewed the violation files and the Safety Division is following its 4 Did compliance actions give reasonable due process to all parties? Including \"show 2 2 cause\" hearing if necessary. (B17, B20) Yes = 2 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: D4. YES. Minor violations were handled informally or with a letter and verified by re-inspection. For 2013, there were no actions where 'show cause' hearings were requested by Pipeline Division or the Operators. All cited operators complied (or are in the process of complying) with the enforcement actions. The process for 'show cause' hearings is in place. Due process is afforded all & is stated in the violation letters. See LA Administrative Code (LAC 33: V subpart 3 Chapter 313 LIQUID, & LAC 43: XI subpart 3 Chapter 5 GAS). 5 Is the program manager familiar with state process for imposing civil penalties? Were 2 2 civil penalties considered for repeat violations (with severity consideration) or violations resulting in incidents/accidents? (describe any actions taken) (B27) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: D5. YES. The Program Manager is familiar with the state process for imposing civil penalties. James Mergist and Steve Giambrone are part of a committee to develop procedures and identify precedents for determining civil penalties. Multiple violations are considered. DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 12\n\n6 Can the State demonstrate it is using their enforcement fining authority for pipeline safety 1 1 violations? Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: was collected. D6. YES. Fines are assessed and collected every year. In 2013 $51,500 in fines were assessed in 39 citations and $42,250 7 General Comments: Info Only Info Only Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: D7. LDNR has a fully developed and implemented Pipeline Safety Program. Procedures are written and followed. Records are kept and properly filed. All compliance tools are used including civil penalties. On a sad note, there was no sponsor for a legislative Bill for increased civil penalties in 2013. Total points scored for this section: 15 Total possible points for this section: 15 DUNS: 809927387 2013 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Louisiana Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Page: 13\n\nPART E - Incident Investigations Points(MAX) Score 1 Does state have adequate mechanism to receive and respond to operator reports of 2 2 incidents, including after-hours reports? And did state keep adequate records of Incident/ Accident notifications received? Chapter 6 (A2,D1-3) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 a. Acknowledgement of MOU between NTSB and PHMSA (Appendix D) Yes No Needs Improvement b. Acknowledgement of Federal/State Cooperation in case of incident/accident (Appendix E) Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: E1. YES. See Pipeline SOP, General Criteria, Accident Investigations. State Guidelines Appendix D specifies: 1. Determine if safety violations occurred. 2. Determine root causes of the incident if asked by NTSB. 3. Cooperate with NTSB. The MOU between NTSB and OPS is understood, and LDNR Pipeline Division fully cooperates with NTSB. In 2013 there were 10 reportable incidents, plus follow up of several non-reportable incidents when notification was received. 2 If onsite investigation was not made, did state obtain sufficient information from the 1 1 operator and/or by other means to determine the facts to support the decision to not go on-site? Chapter 6 (D4) Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: E2. YES. Telephonic contact is made, and the 'Telephonic Leak Report' is used. The information received is used to determine if an on-site visit is required. 8 of the 10 Federally reportable incidents had a field visit. 3 Were all incidents investigated, thoroughly documented, and with conclusions and 3 3 recommendations? (D5) Yes = 3 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1-2 a. Observations and document review Yes No Needs Improvement b. Contributing Factors Yes No Needs Improvement c. Recommendations to prevent recurrences when appropriate Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: E3. Yes, Yes, Yes. LDNR uses the federal pipeline failure investigation form when an on-site investigation is made. The events are documented and Appendix C is followed. Including findings of fact, probable cause, and to determine if Pipeline Safety Regulations were followed. 4 Did the state initiate compliance action for violations found during any incident/accident 1 1 investigation? (D6) Yes = 1 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: E4. YES. of the 10 incidents, 10 reviews are complete/ongoing and violations are expected on two incidents for failure to notify LA DNR. 5 Did the state assist region office by taking appropriate follow-up actions related to the 1 1 operator incident reports to ensure accuracy and final report has been received by PHMSA? (validate report data from operators concerning incidents/accidents and investigate discrepancies","truncated":true,"body_characters":51828}