{"operation":"document","citation":"PHMSA sc2010ngprogramevaluation","title":"2010 SC NG Program Evaluation - sc2010ngprogramevaluation (South Carolina; Natural Gas State Program Evaluation)","source_type":"inspection","agency":"Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration","status":"historical","official":true,"published_on":"2010-01-01","effective_on":null,"summary":"2010 PHMSA natural gas program evaluation for South Carolina.","machine_formats":{"json":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-sc-ng-program-evaluation-sc2010ngprogramevaluation.json","markdown":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-sc-ng-program-evaluation-sc2010ngprogramevaluation.md"},"app_url":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-sc-ng-program-evaluation-sc2010ngprogramevaluation","source_url":"https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/docs/subdoc/1471/sc2010ngprogramevaluation.pdf","body":"1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington DC 20590 U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation for Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina Document Legend PART: O -- Representative Date and Title Information A -- General Program Qualifications B -- Inspections and Compliance - Procedures/Records/Performance C -- Interstate Agent States D -- Incident Investigations E -- Damage Prevention Initiatives F -- Field Inspection G -- PHMSA Initiatives - Strategic Plan H -- Miscellaneous I -- Program Initiatives DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 1\n\n2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation -- CY 2010 Natural Gas State Agency: South Carolina Rating: Agency Status: Date of Visit: 06/27/2011 - 07/01/2011 Agency Representative: Vernon Gainey, Pipeline Safety Supervisor PHMSA Representative: Don Martin Commission Chairman to whom follow up letter is to be sent: Name/Title: C. Dukes Scott, Executive Director Agency: Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina Address: 1401 Main Street, Suite 900 City/State/Zip: Columbia, South Carolina 29201 60105(a): Yes 60106(a): No Interstate Agent: No 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 2010 (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 certification/agreement attachments provide the basis for determining the state's pipeline safety grant allocation. Field Inspection (PART F): 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 F, the PHMSA representative should include a written summary which thoroughly documents the inspection. Scoring Summary PARTS Possible Points Points Scored A General Program Qualifications 26 26 B Inspections and Compliance - Procedures/Records/Performance 24 24 C Interstate Agent States 0 0 D Incident Investigations 6 6 E Damage Prevention Initiatives 9 9 F Field Inspection 12 12 G PHMSA Initiatives - Strategic Plan 10 10 H Miscellaneous 3 3 I Program Initiatives 9 9 TOTALS 99 99 State Rating................................................................................................................................................... 100.0 DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 2\n\nPART A - General Program Qualifications Points(MAX) Score 8 8 1 Did the state submit complete and accurate information on the attachments to its most current 60105(a) Certification/60106 (a) Agreement? (NOTE: PHMSA Representative to verify certification/agreement attachments by reviewing appropriate state documentation. Score a deficiency in any one area as \"needs improvement\". Attachment numbers appear in parenthesis) Previous Question A.1, Items a-h worth 1 point each Yes = 8 No = 0 Needs Minor Improvement = 3-7 Needs Major Improvement = 2 a. State Jurisdiction and agent status over gas facilities (1) b. Total state inspection activity (2) c. Gas facilities subject to state safety jurisdiction (3) d. Gas pipeline incidents (4) e. State compliance actions (5) f. State record maintenance and reporting (6) g. State employees directly involved in the gas pipeline safety program (7) h. State compliance with Federal requirements (8) SLR Notes: inaccuracies were found. Upon a review of the attachments to the ORS's 2011 Certificationinformation entered into the attachments were documented in the ORS's records. No 2 Did the state have an adequate mechanism to receive operator reporting of incidents to ensure state compliance with 60105(a) Certification/60106(a) Agreement requirements (fatality, injury requiring hospitalization, property damage exceeding $50,000 - Mechanism should include receiving \"after hours\" reports)? (Chapter 6) Previous Question A.2 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: The ORS provides operators with reporting requirements and contact numbers to be used. After hour reporting is available. The ORS maintains a log of telephonic reports. The information is entered into the ORS's report database which can track the status of incident reports. 3 Has the state held a pipeline safety TQ seminar(s) in the last 3 years? (NOTE: Indicate date of last seminar or if 2 2 state requested seminar, but T&Q could not provide, indicate date of state request for seminar. Seminars must be held at least once every 3 calendar years.) (Chapter 8.5) Previous Question A.4 Yes = 2 No = 0 SLR Notes: August, 2011. The ORS conducts a seminar once every two years. The ORS conducted a regulations update seminar in August, 2009. The next seminar is scheduled for 4 Were pipeline safety program files well-organized and accessible?(NOTE: This also includes electronic files) (Chapter 5) Previous Question A.5 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: The ORS maintains both electronic and hard copies of their inspections reports and other records. The ORS utilizes a Microsoft Access system to complete reports electronically and stored the database. A system of hard copy inspection reports are kept in filing cabinets that are organized by operator and the date of the inspection. Other electronic files are kept to keep track of telephonic reports of incidents, summary information of inspections and track follow up on non-compliance issues found. All of the files are well organized and easy to access. 5 Did state records and discussions with the state pipeline safety program manager indicate adequate knowledge of PHMSA program and regulations? (Chapter 4.1, Chapter 8.1) Previous Question A.6 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 2 2 SLR Notes: Vernon Gainey has been the program manager for the ORS for approximately seven years. Mr. Gainey exhibited knowledge of pipeline safety regulations and the requirements for a state pipeline safety program outlined in the Guidelines For A State Pipeline Safety Program. 6 Did the state respond in writing within 60 days to the requested items in the Chairman's letter following the Region's last program evaluation? (No response is necessary if no items are requested in letter and mark \"Yes\") (Chapter 8.1) Previous Question A.8 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: The ORS responded in 59 days. DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 3\n\n7 What actions, if necessary, did the State initiate as a result of issues raised in the Chairperson's letter from the 1 1 previous year? Did actions correct or address deficiencies from previous year's evaluation? (No response is necessary if no items are requested in letter and mark \"Yes\") (Chapter 8.1) Previous Question A.8/A.9 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: The ORS began collecting damages per 1000 tickets and has set up the ability to establish trends on this data going forward. The ORS has verified that operators have Integrity Management Programs and completed IMP inspections for all but three existing operators and two new operators. The ORS developed a process to evaluate risk relative to all operators and identify risk areas to focus upon during inspections. Personnel and Qualifications 8 Has each inspector fulfilled the 3 year TQ training requirement? If No, has the state been granted a waiver 3 3 regarding TQ courses by the Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety? (NOTE: If the State has new inspectors who have not attended all TQ courses, but are in a program which will achieve the completion of all applicable courses within 3 years of taking first course (5 years to sucessfully complete), or if a waiver has been granted by the applicable Region Director for the state, please answer yes.) (Chapter 4.4) Previous Question A.10 Yes = 3 No = 0 SLR Notes: The ORS inspection staff has successfully completed the minimum required courses within the 5 year timeframe. The most recently hired inspector, Michael Bunting still must successfully complete the PL1250 course during 2011 to meet the 5 year requirement. Vernon Gainey and David DeBruhl must complete the Hazwoper course by 2016. 9 Brief Description of Non-TQ training Activities: Info Only = No Points For State Personnel: Received training at the SGA training seminar. Attended annual ethics training. For Operators: None during 2010. For Non-Operator Entities/Parties, Information Dissemination, Public Meetings: None during 2010. SLR Notes: See above. Info Only Info Only 10 Did the lead inspectors complete all required T&Q OQ courses and Computer Based Training (CBT) before conducting OQ Inspections? (Chapter 4.4.1) Previous Question A.12 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: being conducted. Upon a review of the OQ database and training records, the inspectors assigned to lead OQ inspections completed the required training prior to inspections 11 Did the lead inspectors complete all required TQ Integrity Management (IMP) Courses/Seminars and CBT before conducting IMP Inspections? (Chapter 4.4.1) Previous Question A.13 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: The protocol course and prerequisites have been successfully completed. SCADA, Inline Pigging, ECDA, Reliability Seminar and Internal Corrosion WBT were added as requirements after protocol course requirement. These must be completed before conducting subsequent IMP inspections. 12 Was the ratio acceptable of Total inspection Person-days to Total Person-days charged to the program by state inspectors? (Region Director may modify points for just cause) (Chapter 4.3) Previous Question B.12 Yes = 5 No = 0 5 5 A. Total Inspection Person Days (Attachment 2): 292.00 B. Total Inspection Person Days Charged to the Program (220 X Inspection Person Years) (Attachment 7): 220 X 2.15 = 473.00 Ratio: A / B 292.00 / 473.00 = 0.62 If Ratio >= 0.38 Then Points = 5, If Ratio < 0.38 Then Points = 0 Points = 5 SLR Notes: DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 4\n\nThe ORS experienced 292 inspection person days during 2010. The ORS assigned 2.15 person years to the program in 2010. The resulting ratio of inspection person days to person years is 0.62 which above the minimum ration of 0.38. 13 Have there been modifications or proposed changes to inspector-staffing levels? (If yes, describe) Previous Question B.13 Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: There were no changes in 2010. No changes are planned at this time. Info Only Info Only 14 Part-A General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: The ORS has generally complied with the requirements in Part A of this evaluation. Total points scored for this section: 26 Total possible points for this section: 26 DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 5\n\nPART B - Inspections and Compliance - Procedures/Records/ Performance Points(MAX) Score Inspection Procedures 1 Does the State have a written inspection plan to complete the following? (all types of operators including LNG) (Chapter 5.1) Previous Question B.1 + Chapter 5 Changes + Incorporate LNG Yes = 6.5 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 50% Deduction a Standard Inspections (Including LNG) (Max points = 2) b IMP Inspections (Including DIMP) (Max points = .5) c OQ Inspections (Max points = .5) d Damage Prevention (Max points = .5) e On-Site Operator Training (Max points = .5) f Construction Inspections (Max points = .5) g Incident/Accident Investigations (Max points = 1) h Compliance Follow-up (Max points = 1) SLR Notes: 6.5 6.5 Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement The ORS has written procedures which state that each operator and unit will have a standard inspection completed once every two years. OQ field and damage prevention are covered in standard inspections. Followup inspections are scheduled after each inspection that contains a probable violation(s). 2 Did the written Procedures for selecting operators adequately address key concerns? (Chapter 5.1) Previous 2 2 Question B.2, items a-d are worth .5 point each Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 50% Deduction a Length of time since last inspection Yes No Needs Improvement b History of Operator/unit and/or location (including leakage , incident and compliance history) Yes No Needs Improvement c Type of activity being undertaken by operator (construction etc) Yes No Needs Improvement d For large operators, rotation of locations inspected Yes No Needs Improvement SLR Notes: The following factors are considered in selecting operators to be inspected when developing the ORS's annual inspection plan. 1. To assist in determining a schedule of inspection activities with Operators, the following must be considered: a. Abnormal number of potential non-compliances historically found. b. Length of time since last inspection. c. Past leakeage and/or incident history. d. Prior frequency and number of non-compliances observed, addressed, and documented. Any other event(s) within or without the Operator's facilities which may impose difficulty in administering O & M and compliance efforts and procedures. 2. Priority ranking for chronological order and frequency of inspections and will also reflects other known factors. These are listed as follows: a. Significant percentage of Operator facilities located in metropolitan and/or ighly populated areas. b. Significant number of Operator facilities located and operated within high concentrations of commercial/industrial areas. c. Significant number of pipeline damages or failures recurring in specific geographic locations of Operator Service territory. Greater potential for facility damage in HCA's or other sensitive areas where these damages to a gas pipeline would probably cause major consequences. Inspection Performance 3 Did the state inspect all types of operators and inspection units in accordance with time intervals established in its written procedures? (Chapter 5.1) Previous Question B.3 Yes = 2 No = 0 2 2 SLR Notes: Upon a review of the ORS's inspection summary, the ORS complied with the inspection intervals described in its procedures. Upon a review of randomly selected inspection reports, the ORS's inspection summary appeared to be accurate. 4 Did the state inspection form cover all applicable code requirements addressed on the Federal Inspection forms? (Chapter 5.1 (3)) Previous Question B.4 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: The ORS uses the federal inspection forms to conduct its inspections. 5 Did state complete all applicable portions of inspection forms? (Chapter 5.1 (3)) Previous Question B.5 DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation 1 1 South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 6\n\nYes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: inspection. Upon a review of randomly selected inspection files, the inspection forms for each inspection report were completed for the applicable portions of the 6 Did the state initiate appropriate follow-up actions to Safety Related Condition Reports? (Chapter 6.3) Previous Question B.6 Yes = .5 No = 0 .5 .5 SLR Notes: Yes. There was one safety related condition report filed in 2010. The operator mitigated the condition within five days. A permanent solution with pipe replacement was completed later. The ORS followed up properly. 7 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) Previous Question B.7 Yes = .5 No = 0 SLR Notes: There is no cast iron pipe in South Carolina. All cast iron pipe has been replaced. .5 NA 8 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) Previous Question B.8 Yes = .5 No = 0 SLR Notes: There is no cast iron pipe in South Carolina. All cast iron pipe has been replaced. .5 NA 9 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) Previous Question B.9 Yes = .5 No = 0 .5 .5 SLR Notes: The ORS verifies that operator's procedures have procedures to identify the extent of migration of underground leaks when reviewing operator's emergency procedures and leak response procedures. The ORS reviews leak survey and leak repair records during its standard inspections. 10 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? (NTSB) Previous Question 1 1 B.10 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: operator's leak repair records. The ORS covers Part 192.617 requirements when it conducts standard inspections of operators. The ORS reviews operator's response times when reviewing Compliance - 60105(a) States 11 Did the state adequately document sufficient information on probable violations? (Chapter 5.2) Previous 1 1 Question B.14 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Upon a review of randomly selected inspection reports, probable violations that were found during inspections were described as to what actions the operator took or failed to take which resulted in the finding of a probable violation. 12 Does the state have written procedures to identify the steps to be taken from the discovery to the resolution of a 1 1 probable violation as specified in the \"Guidelines for State Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\"? (Chapter 5.1) Previous Question D(1).1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Yes. The ORS provides immediate notification to the operator and follows up with written notification. The ORS's procedures provide the operators with 30 days to respond to the written notification. If no response is received after 30 days, the ORS sends another written notification to the operator. The ORS can initiate a show cause proceeding if the operator does not respond within 90 days of the original written notification. Operators have the opportunity to provide evidence that a probable violation did not occur at any time or request a show cause proceeding to argue its case. DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 7\n\n13 Does the state have written procedures to notify an operator when a noncompliance is identified as specified in the \"Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\"? (Chapter 5.1(4)) Previous Question D 1 1 (1).2 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: The ORS procedures state that any probable violations found during an inspection should first be communicated during the exit interview of the inspection. Official notification is provided by written notification. The written notification is provided to the operator detailing the results of each inspection. If a probable violation is found, it is stated so in the letter. 14 Does the state have a written procedure for routinely reviewing the progress of compliance actions to prevent delays or breakdowns of the enforcement process, as required by the \"Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\"? (Chapter 5.1(5)) Previous Question D(1).3 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 1 SLR Notes: When a non-compliance is recorded on an inspection report, a copy of the report, copy of the notification letter to the Operator, the Operator's response, and all related correspondence will be stored in a sub-folder and kept in a master folder at a specific designated location in the files. These may be filed in the Operator folders each year's end. If an item is unresolved at the time of the filing, it must remain in the non-compliance log and can be filed at the end of the next calendar year, or the year in which the non-compliance is satisfactorily addressed. It is the responsibility of the Pipeline Safety Supervisor to monitor this folder for adherence to the procedures, and each Inspector's responsibility to monitor each non-compliance that he recorded until the non-compliance is cleared. At this point, each non-compliance must be cleared and removed from the folder after no longer being considered \"open. 15 Has the State issued compliance actions for all probable violations discovered? (Note : PHMSA representative 1 1 has discretion to delete question or adjust points, as appropriate, based on number of probable violations; any change requires written explanation) Previous Question D(1).4 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Upon a review of randomly selected inspection report files, written notifications were sent to operators for inspections that found probable violations. 16 Did the state follow its written procedures for reviewing compliance actions and follow-up to determine that 1 1 prompt corrective actions were taken by operators, within the time frames established by the procedures and compliance correspondence, as required by the \"Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\"? Previous Question D(1).5 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: clear probable violations. Upon a review of randomly selected inspection report files, the appropriate follow up was executed to monitor the corrective actions required of operators to 17 If compliance could not be established by other means, did state pipeline safety program staff request formal action, such as a \"Show Cause Hearing\" to correct pipeline safety violations? (check each states enforcement procedures) Previous Question D(1).6 No = 0 Yes = 1 1 1 SLR Notes: There were no show cause hearing information in the inspection files that were reviewed. The ORS stated there were no actions on the part of an operator that warranted a petition for a \"show cause hearing\" in 2010. 18 Did the state adequately document the resolution of probable violations? (Chapter 5.1 (6)) Previous Question 1 1 D(1).7 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Upon a review of randomly selected inspection report files, the ORS had documentation in the inspection files describing the correction actions taken and the ORS's acceptance of the operators' corrective action. 19 Were compliance actions sent to a company officer? (manager or board member if municipal/government system) (Chapter 5.1(4)) Previous Question D(1).8 Yes = .5 No = 0 .5 .5 SLR Notes: operators. Upon a review of randomly selected inspection files, non compliance letters were addressed to company officers for letters sent to private company 20 Did the compliance proceedings give reasonable due process to all parties? (check each states enforcement procedures) Previous Question D(1).9 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation 1 1 South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 8\n\nOperators are provided with the opportunity to provide information that shows that a probable violation did not occur or operators can petition the Commissioners for a \"show cause\" hearing. Compliance - 60106(a) States 21 Did the state use the current federal inspection form(s)? Previous Question D(2).1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: 1 NA 22 SLR Notes: Are results adequately documented demonstrating inspection units were reviewed in accordance with state inspection plan? Previous Question D(2).2 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA 23 SLR Notes: Were any probable violations identified by state referred to PHMSA for compliance? (NOTE: PHMSA representative has discretion to delete question or adjust points, as appropriate, based on number of probable violations; any change requires written explanation.) Previous Question D(2).3 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA 24 SLR Notes: Did the state immediately report to PHMSA conditions which may pose an imminent safety hazard to the public or to the environment? Previous Question D(2).4 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA 25 SLR Notes: Did the state give written notice to PHMSA within 60 days of all probable violations found? Previous Question D(2).5 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA 26 SLR Notes: Did the state initially submit adequate documentation to support compliance action by PHMSA on probable violations? Previous Question D(2).6 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA 27 Is the program manager familiar with state process for imposing civil penalties? Were civil penalties considered for repeat violations (with severity consideration) or violations resulting in incidents/accidents? (describe any actions taken) Info Only = No Points Info Only NA SLR Notes: 28 Part B: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: The ORS has generally complied with the requirements of Part B of this evaluation. Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 24 Total possible points for this section: 24 DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 9\n\nPART C - Interstate Agent States Points(MAX) Score 1 Did the state use the current federal inspection form(s)? Previous Question D(3).1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: The ORS is not an interstate agent. 1 NA 2 Are results documented demonstrating inspection units were reviewed in accordance with \"PHMSA directed inspection plan\"? Previous Question D(3).2 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: The ORS is not an interstate agent. 1 NA 3 Did the state submit documentation of the inspections within 60 days as stated in its latest Interstate Agent Agreement form? Previous Question D(3).3 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: The ORS is not an interstate agent. 1 NA 4 Were any probable violations identified by state referred to PHMSA for compliance? (NOTE: PHMSA representative has discretion to delete question or adjust points, as appropriate, based on number of probable violations; any change requires written explanation.) Previous Question D(3).4 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: The ORS is not an interstate agent. 1 NA 5 Did the state immediately report to PHMSA conditions which may pose an imminent safety hazard to the public or to the environment? Previous Question D(3).5 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA SLR Notes: The ORS is not an interstate agent. 6 Did the state give written notice to PHMSA within 60 days of all probable violations found? Previous Question D(3).6 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: The ORS is not an interstate agent. 1 NA 7 Did the state initially submit documentation to support compliance action by PHMSA on probable violations? Previous Question D(3).7 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: The ORS is not an interstate agent. 1 NA 8 Part C: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: The ORS is not an interstate agent. Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 0 Total possible points for this section: 0 DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 10\n\nPART D - Incident Investigations Points(MAX) Score 1 Are state personnel following the procedures for Federal/State cooperation in case of an incident? (See Appendix in \"Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\") (Chapter 6.1) Previous Question E.1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Yes. The ORS has cooperated with PHMSA's Southern Region Office in the incident that occurred during 2010. 1 1 2 Are state personnel familiar with the jurisdictional authority and Memorandum of Understanding between NTSB and PHMSA? (See Appendix in \"Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\") (Chapter 6 ? Appendix D) Previous Question E.2 Yes = .5 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, Mr. Gainey exhibited knowledge of the jurisdictional authority and the cooperation outlined in the MOU. .5 .5 3 Did the state keep adequate records of incident notifications received? Previous Question E.3 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes. The ORS kept a log of incidents that were reported to the ORS. The ORS maintains an investigation file for each reportable incident. 4 If an onsite investigation of an incident was not made, did the state obtain sufficient information by other means to determine the facts and support the decision not to go on-site? Previous Question E.4 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: The ORS investigated all reportable incidents that occurred in 2010. 1 1 5 Were investigations thorough and conclusions and recommendations documented in an acceptable manner? Previous Question E.5, comprehensive question worth 2 points total Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 a. Observations and Document Review b. Contributing Factors c. Recommendations to prevent recurrences where appropriate SLR Notes: No issues were identified with the investigation of the incident that occurred on May 11, 2010. 2 2 Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement 6 Did the state initiate enforcement action for violations found during any incident investigation(s)? Previous Question E.6 Variation Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: There were no probable violations found in the investigation conducted in 2010. 1 NA 7 Did the state assist region office by taking appropriate follow-up actions related to the operator incident reports to ensure accuracy and final report has been received by PHMSA? (validate annual report data from operators concerning incidents/accidents and investigate discrepancies) (Chapter 6) Previous Question E.7/E.8 Yes = .5 No = 0 SLR Notes: No issues were identified related to the ORS's follow-up actions. .5 0.5 8 Part D: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: The ORS has generally complied with Part D requirements of this evaluation. Info Only Info Only DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 11\n\nTotal points scored for this section: 6 Total possible points for this section: 6 DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 12\n\nPART E - Damage Prevention Initiatives Points(MAX) Score 1 Has the state reviewed directional drilling/boring procedures of each pipeline operator or its contractor to determine if they include actions to protect their facilities from the dangers posed by drilling and other trench less technologies? Previous Question B.11 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 2 2 SLR Notes: Yes. The ORS verifies that operators include directional/boring procedures in their Operation and Maintenance Procedures. The ORS reviews these procedures when it conducts operator Operation and Maintenance Procedure Reviews. 2 Did the state inspector check to assure the pipeline operator is following its written procedures pertaining to notification of excavation, marking, positive response and the availability and use of the one call system? New 2008 Yes = 2 No = 0 2 2 SLR Notes: During standard inspections, the ORS verifies that operators follow through with their damage prevention programs required by Part 192.614. 3 Did the state encourage and promote the adoption of the Common Ground Alliance Best Practices document to 2 2 its regulated companies as a means of reducing damages to all underground facilities? Previous Question A.7 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 SLR Notes: The ORS mailed and delivered to operators copies of the CD containing CGA' s best practices. During seminars and other settings, the ORS has communicated to operators encouragement for adopting the best practices. 4 Has the agency or another organization within the state collected data and evaluated trends on the number of pipeline damages per 1,000 locate requests? New 2008 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: No. The ORS has collected data on pipeline damages per 1000 tickets during 2010. The ORS uses this information as an input to its risk ranking model. 5 Did the state review operators' records of accidents and failures due to excavation damage to ensure causes of failure are addressed to minimize the possibility of recurrence as required by 192.617? Yes = 2 No = 0 2 2 SLR Notes: Part 192.617. During standard inspections, the ORS reviews operator's records on leaks and failures during its review of operator's records documenting compliance with 6 Part E: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: The ORS has generally complied with the requirements of Part E of this evaluation. Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 9 Total possible points for this section: 9 DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 13\n\nPART F - Field Inspection Points(MAX) Score 1 Operator, Inspector, Location, Date and PHMSA Representative Info Only = No Points Info Only Info Only Name of Operator Inspected: South Carolina Electric and Gas Name of State Inspector(s) Observed: David DeBruhl Location of Inspection: Charleston District Date of Inspection: June 29, 2011 Name of PHMSA Representative: Don Martin SLR Notes: The inspection covered the inspection of critical valves and cathodic protection for the Charleston District. Records were checked for valve inspection and cathodic protection reading frequencies. The operation of valves and test point readings was observed in the field. 2 Was the operator or operator's representative notified and/or given the opportunity to be present during inspection? New 2008 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes. Cedric Green, Division Manager, was notified of the inspection. Joe Byrd represented SCE & G during the inspection. 1 1 3 Did the inspector use an acceptable inspection form/checklist and was the form/checklist used as a guide for the inspection? (New regulations shall be incorporated) Previous Question F.2 Yes = 2 No = 0 2 2 SLR Notes: The ORS inspector used the federal form for the comprehensive inspection of SCE & G's East Division which encompasses the Charleston District. The inspection observed was a specialized inspection focused on valve inspections and cathodic protection system. 4 Did the inspector thoroughly document results of the inspection? Previous Question F.3 Yes = 2 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes. Mr. DeBruhl completed forms developed by the ORS for valve inspections and cathodic protection test point reading. 2 2 5 Did the inspector check to see if the operator had necessary equipment during inspection to conduct tasks viewed? (Maps, pyrometer, soap spray, CGI, etc.) New 2008 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes. Mr. Debruhl checked the voltmeter and half cell for the cathodic protection readings. He asked for the calibration dates of the voltmeter. 6 What type of inspection(s) did the state inspector conduct during the field portion of the state evaluation? (i.e. Standard, Construction, IMP, etc) New 2008 Info Only = No Points Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: The inspection was a standard inspection focused on valve inspections and cathodic protection. 7 Did the inspector adequately review the following during the field portion of the state evaluation? (check all that apply on list) New 2008, comprehensive question worth 2 points total Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 a. Procedures b. Records c. Field Activities/Facilities d. Other (Please Comment) 2 2 DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 14\n\nSLR Notes: Mr. DeBruhl reviewed valve inspection and cathodic protection records and observed valve operation and test point readings. 8 Did the inspector have adequate knowledge of the pipeline safety program and regulations? (Liaison will document reasons if unacceptable) Previous Question F.8 Yes = 2 No = 0 2 2 SLR Notes: Course. Yes. Mr. DeBruhl has been working in pipeline safety regulation for 25 years. He has taken all of the required TnQ courses except for the Hazwoper 9 Did the inspector conduct an exit interview? (If inspection is not totally complete the interview should be based on areas covered during time of field evaluation) Previous Question F.10 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes. Mr. DeBruhl provided a summary of his findings. No probable violations were found. 1 1 10 During the exit interview, did the inspector identify probable violations found during the inspections? Previous Question F.11 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Mr. DeBruhl stated that no probable violations were found. 1 1 11 What did the inspector observe in the field? (Narrative description of field observations and how inspector performed) Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: Operation of valves and cathodic protection test point readings. Info Only Info Only 12 Best Practices to Share with Other States - (Field - could be from operator visited or state inspector practices) Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: No best practices were identified. Info Only Info Only 13 Field Observation Areas Observed (check all that apply) Info Only = No Points a. Abandonment b. Abnormal Operations c. Break-Out Tanks d. Compressor or Pump Stations e. Change in Class Location f. Casings g. Cathodic Protection h. Cast-iron Replacement i. Damage Prevention j. Deactivation k. Emergency Procedures l. Inspection of Right-of-Way m. Line Markers n. Liaison with Public Officials o. Leak Surveys p. MOP q. MAOP r. Moving Pipe s. New Construction DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Info Only Info Only South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 15\n\nt. Navigable Waterway Crossings u. Odorization v. Overpressure Safety Devices w. Plastic Pipe Installation x. Public Education y. Purging z. Prevention of Accidental Ignition A. Repairs B. Signs C. Tapping D. Valve Maintenance E. Vault Maintenance F. Welding G. OQ - Operator Qualification H. Compliance Follow-up I. Atmospheric Corrosion J. Other SLR Notes: No issues found. 14 Part F: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: The ORs has generally complied with the requirements of Part F of this evaluation. DUNS: 805889529 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 12 Total possible points for this section: 12 South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff of South Carolina, Page: 16\n\nPART G - PHMSA Initiatives - Strategic Plan Points(MAX) Score Ris","truncated":true,"body_characters":56534}