{"operation":"document","citation":"PHMSA tx-2017-hazardous-liquid-program-evaluation","title":"2017 TX HL Program Evaluation - tx-2017-hazardous-liquid-program-evaluation (Texas; Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation)","source_type":"inspection","agency":"Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration","status":"historical","official":true,"published_on":"2017-01-01","effective_on":null,"summary":"2017 PHMSA hazardous liquid program evaluation for Texas.","machine_formats":{"json":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-tx-hl-program-evaluation-tx-2017-hazardous-liquid-program-evaluation.json","markdown":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-tx-hl-program-evaluation-tx-2017-hazardous-liquid-program-evaluation.md"},"app_url":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-tx-hl-program-evaluation-tx-2017-hazardous-liquid-program-evaluation","source_url":"https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/docs/subdoc/3896/tx-2017-hazardous-liquid-program-evaluation.pdf","body":"1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington DC 20590 U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation for RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS 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 -- Accident Investigations F -- Damage Prevention G -- Field Inspections H -- Interstate Agent State (if applicable) I -- 60106 Agreement State (if applicable) DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 1\n\n2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation -- CY 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Agency: Texas Rating: Agency Status: Date of Visit: 07/23/2018 - 08/17/2018 Agency Representative: Stephanie Weidman PHMSA Representative: Michael Thompson Commission Chairman to whom follow up letter is to be sent: Name/Title: Christi Craddick, Chairman Agency: Railroad Commission of Texas Address: P.O. Box 12967 City/State/Zip: Austin, Texas 78711-2967 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 2017 (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 13 13 C Program Performance 42 40 D Compliance Activities 15 15 E Accident Investigations 11 11 F Damage Prevention 8 8 G Field Inspections 12 12 H Interstate Agent State (if applicable) 0 0 I 60106 Agreement State (if applicable) 0 0 TOTALS 111 109 State Rating................................................................................................................................................... 98.2 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, 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 1 1 Report Attachment 1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: The Texas PES database tracks the number of operators and inspection unit data. Verified the number of operators and inspections in PES. No issues identified. 2 Review of Inspection Days for accuracy - Progress Report Attachment 2 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: No issues identified 1 1 3 Accuracy verification of Operators and Operators Inspection Units in State - Progress 1 1 Report Attachment 3 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Reviewed the PES Database to verify the information in Attachment 3. Operator and Inspection units were accurate. No issues identified. 4 Were all federally reportable incident reports listed and information correct? - Progress 1 1 Report Attachment 4 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Reviewed incident reports and compared with PDM to assure all federally reportable incidents were investigated or reported to state. No issued identified. 5 Accuracy verification of Compliance Activities - Progress Report Attachment 5 1 1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Reviewed PES database to verify the number compliance actions reported in the Progress Report. The data seems to be accurate. There is a large number of probable violations being carried over from year to year due to the legal process. TX RRC is working on closing out the cases within a reasonable time. 6 Were pipeline program files well-organized and accessible? - Progress Report Attachment 6 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes, all program files are kept electronically in PES. No issues identified. 2 2 7 Was employee listing and completed training accurate and complete? - Progress Report Attachment 7 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Reviewed employee training in SABA and with the RRC Database and no issued identified with the list. 1 1 8 Verification of Part 195,198,199 Rules and Amendments - Progress Report Attachment 8 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 1 Evaluator Notes: Texas has adopted all regulations and amendments within Parts, 195, 198 and 199 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 3\n\n9 List of Planned Performance - Did state describe accomplishments on Progress Report in 1 1 detail - Progress Report Attachment 10 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Yes, the TXRRC describe accomplishments on the progress report. Example; In 2017, Pipeline Safety inspectors completed approximately 530 hazardous liquid safety evaluations of 175 operators, for which we sent 30 violation letters citing 151 alleged violations. Also during 2017, we reported 139 violations as corrected; this number includes violations that were cited in previous years. Also, the Commission collected a total of $20,000.00 in enforcement penalties for hazardous liquid enforcement cases. 10 General Comments: Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 10 Total possible points for this section: 10 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 4\n\nPART B - Program Inspection Procedures Points(MAX) Score 1 Standard Inspection procedures should give guidance to state inspectors that insure 2 2 consistency in all inspections conducted by the state? The following elements should be addressed at a minimum - pre-inspection activities, inspection activities, post-inspection activities. Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes. Standard Operating Procedure (SOG) 3: Routine Comprehensive Evaluation Procedures give guidance to the inspectors to perform standard inspections. Procedures include pre and post inspection procedures. 2 IMP Inspection procedures should give guidance to state inspectors that insure 1 1 consistency in all inspections conducted by the state? The following elements should be addressed at a minimum - pre-inspection activities, inspection activities, post-inspection activities. Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Yes. SOG 6.1 TIMP Procedures and SOG 6.2 DIMP Procedures give guidance to inspectors for performing IM inspections. Recommended to TX RRC that all inspectors have access to the PDM and utilize it to perform all pre inspection activities for all types of inspections. Also recommend to add additional language to SOG 6.2.2.1 for the use of Form 24 for DIMP for large operators. See 6.1.2.1 for http resources. 3 OQ Inspection procedures should give guidance to state inspectors that insure 1 1 consistency in all inspections conducted by the state? The following elements should be addressed at a minimum - pre-inspection activities, inspection activities, post-inspection activities. Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: . Yes. SOG 6.3 has OQ Inspection procedures which has details for performing OQ inspections. OQ inspections are proposed to be on a five-year inspection cycle. 4 Damage Prevention Inspection procedures should give guidance to state inspectors that 1 1 insure consistency in all inspections conducted by the state? The following elements should be addressed at a minimum - pre-inspection activities, inspection activities, post- inspection activities. Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Yes. SOG 6.7 has details for Damage Prevention Inspections. Procedures give guidance to state inspectors that insure consistency in all inspections conducted by the state addressing pre-inspection activities, inspection activities, and post- inspection activities. Stephanie Weidman is Acting supervisor for Damage Prevention Section of RRC. Damage Prevention has 7 employees. 5 Any operator training conducted should be outlined and appropriately documented as 1 1 needed. Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Yes. SOG Section 5 as Operator Training Procedures for performing operator training. Procedures had detail on how to perform and document operator training. Had a training session during their Pipeline Safety Seminar along with the Texas Gas Association. 6 Construction Inspection procedures should give guidance to state inspectors that insure consistency in all inspections conducted by the state? The following elements should be addressed at a minimum - pre-inspection activities, inspection activities, post-inspection activities. Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation 1 1 Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 5\n\nYes. SOG 6.6 New Construction Evaluation has procedure for conducting new construction inspections. TAX 8.115 is Texas law that requires operators to report any new construction 30 days prior to constructing more than 1 mile of pipe. Law is changing to 60 day notice and .1 miles of new pipe. The New Construction Lead Inspector must successfully complete required TQ courses prior to conducting any new construction inspections. This person should lead the evaluation with the assistance of other participating team members, if a team is utilized, and is to remain present during the duration of the evaluation. The change in the Law was delayed, but it is still scheduled to be changed 7 Does inspection plan address inspection priorities of each operator, and if necessary each 6 6 unit, based on the following elements? Yes = 6 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1-5 a. Length of time since last inspection (Within five year interval) 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 area, 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: Yes. a. Inspection intervals are at 5 year intervals. b. Operating history is included in their unit inspection risk ranking c. Procedures include activities undertaken by operator. d. HCA's and population are part of the unit risk ranking. e. SOG 3 was amended last year to include the tracking of incidents and causes which include Excavation damage. corrosion, natural outside forces, material and welds, equipment, operators and other factors. f. Units are broken down mostly by operating area for Distribution and by mileage for Transmission. e. SOG 3 includes the tracking of incidents and causes which include Excavation damage. corrosion, natural outside forces, material and welds, equipment, operators and other factors. 8 General Comments: Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 13 Total possible points for this section: 13 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, 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 Yes = 5 No = 0 A. Total Inspection Person Days (Attachment 2): 1572.00 B. Total Inspection Person Days Charged to the Program (220 X Inspection Person Years) (Attachment 7): 220 X 8.82 = 1940.03 Ratio: A / B 1572.00 / 1940.03 = 0.81 If Ratio >= 0.38 Then Points = 5, If Ratio < 0.38 Then Points = 0 Points = 5 Evaluator Notes: Yes, 61 inspectors @8.78 Person Years 220 X 8.78 = 1931.6 1572/1931.6 = .81 5 5 2 Has each inspector and program manager fulfilled the T Q Training Requirements? (See 5 5 Guidelines Appendix C for requirements) Chapter 4.4 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 IMP Training before conducting inspection as lead Yes No Needs Improvement c. Root Cause Training by at least one inspector/prgram manager Yes No Needs Improvement d. Note any outside training completed Yes No Needs Improvement e. Verify inspector has obtained minimum qualifications to lead any applicable standard inspection as the lead inspector. Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: a.The RRC has an in house training program for each new inspector. Each inspector goes through the training for at least 6 months. They accompany another seasoned inspector during the inspections to obtain on the job training. Joey Bass is the training coordinator who monitors each inspectors progress while they are in training. When the inspector is knowledgeable of the pipeline safety program he/she is checked out by an inspector and verified by the Program Manager. The inspectors also attend the required T&Q courses within 3 years. b. Reviewed IMP inspections and found that all lead inspectors were qualified. Checked qualifications with SABA database. c. There are several inspectors that have taken the Root Cause training course. d. The RRC has an in house training program which is very lengthy so outside training is not attended. Due to travel funds outside training is limited. e. The RRC has an in house training program for each new inspector. Each inspector goes through the training for atleast 6 months. They accompany another seasoned inspector during the inspections to obtain on the job training. Joey Bass is the training coordinator who monitors each inspectors progress while they are in training. When the inspector is knowledgeable of the pipeline safety program he/she is checked out by an inspector and verified by the Program Manager. The inspectors also attend the required T&Q courses within 3 years. 3 Did state records and discussions with state pipeline safety program manager indicate 2 2 adequate knowledge of PHMSA program and regulations? Chapter 4.1,8.1 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes. In reviewing Stephanie Weidman's training and discussions she is very knowledgeable of the PHMSA program and regulations. 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 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 2 2 Evaluator Notes: DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 7\n\nYes, the response was received within 60 days. 5 Did State conduct or participate in pipeline safety training session or seminar in Past 3 1 1 Years? Chapter 8.5 Yes = 1 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: Yes, the TXRRC held a safety Seminar on September 22, 2017. The seminar was conducted without PHMSA TQ participation. 6 Did state inspect all types of operators and inspection units in accordance with time intervals established in written procedures? Chapter 5.1 Yes = 5 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1-4 5 4 Evaluator Notes: The TX RRC is not complying with their procedures in inspecting units within the time intervals established. The main issue is the time intervals between specialized inspections (OQ, IMP). In reviewing the yearly work plan there are some operators that have not had a specialized inspection (OQ, IMP) within the five year interval. Example Inspection Packages; #115558-IMP, #116027-IMP, #116538-OQ, The TX RRC needs to improve on the inspection interval to meet their established intervals per their procedures. Loss of 1 point 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 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes, the TX RRC uses the Federal Forms in an excel version. Reviewed inspection reports and found that all applicable portions of the inspection forms were filled out by the inspectors. No issues identified. 8 Did the state review operator records of previous accidents and failures including 1 1 reported third party damage and leak response to ensure appropriate operator response as required by 195.402(c)(5)? Yes = 1 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: SOG 8 has incident/accident procedures. Records or previous accidents are reviewed by the TX RRC to ensure appropriate operator response. Review during inspections to verify operator response. 9 Has the state reviewed Operator Annual reports, along with Incident/Accident reports, for accuracy and analyzed data for trends and operator issues? Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 2 2 Evaluator Notes: SOG 3 has the procedure to review Annual reports and incidents. The Program Manager reviews the annual reports, incident reports along with PRIMIS and analyze data. 10 Has state confirmed intrastate operators have submitted information into NPMS database along with changes made after original submission? Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 1 Evaluator Notes: Inspection form has question to ask during inspection which identified submittals to NPMS. Reviewed inspection reports to assure the question is being asked. 11 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 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes. A drug and alcohol verification inspection is conducted on every inspection. The form is used to verify the operator's MIS information. Drug and Alcohol Program inspections are performed on every operator every 5 years. Procedures require the inspector to conduct a field Drug and Alcohol during every standard inspection. DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 8\n\n12 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 195 Part G Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: In reviewing the inspection reports, the TX RRC is performing OQ inspections and verifying the OQ programs are up to date. 13 Is state verifying operator's hazardous liquid integrity management (L IMP) Programs are 2 1 up to date? This should include a previous review of LIMP 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). (Are the State's largest operators programs being contacted or reviewed annually? Are replies to Operator IM notifications addressed? (formerly part of Question C-10)). 49 CFR 195.452 Appendix C Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: Inspections completed use inspection forms that include a previous review of IMP plan, along with monitoring progress on operator tests and remedial actions. In addition, the review takes in to account program review and updates of operators plan (s) per 49 CFR 195.452 Subpart c. The individuals performing these inspections met PHMSA qualification requirements. Tx RRC is not meeting their 5 year re-inspection interval for all intrastate regulated Operator's IM Plans, which is noted on question C6. Loss of 1 point 14 Is state verifying operators Public Awareness programs are up to date and being 2 2 followed. State should also verify operators have evaluated Public Awareness programs for effectiveness as described in RP1162. PAPEI Effectiveness Inspections should be conducted every four years by operators. 49 CFR 195.440 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: The TX RRC perform Public Awareness program inspections during their comprehensive inspections. There were many inspections reports reviewed which included the review of public awareness programs. 15 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). Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: RRC website has enforcement cases available to the public, provides operator resources such as guidelines for operating small distribution systems, has section for the TAC Code, section for any pipeline safety events coming up, and damage prevention section educating the public. 16 Did state execute appropriate follow-up actions to Safety Related Condition (SRC) Reports? Chapter 6.3 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 1 Evaluator Notes: TX RRC executed appropriate follow-up actions to Safety Related Condition (SRC) Reports reviewed during evaluation. 17 Did the state participate in/respond to surveys or information requests from NAPSR or PHMSA? Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Yes, Stephanie Weidman responded to NAPSR surveys in 2017 which was verified thru email. 1 1 18 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. DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation 1 1 Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 9\n\nNeeds Improvement = .5 No = 0 Yes = 1 Evaluator Notes: Stephanie Weidman, the program manager, has reviewed the status of all waivers granted in Texas and is now in the process of having the status of each up dated. She will be working with Kay MacGyver in PHMSA HQ. (Recommendation to be reviewed in 2019 evaluation) 19 Did the state attend the National NAPSR Board of Directors Meeting in CY being evaluated? Needs Improvement = .5 No = 0 Yes = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes, Stephanie Weidman attended the National NAPSR Board Meeting. 1 1 20 Discussion on State Program Performance Metrics found on Stakeholder Communication 2 2 site ? http://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/comm/states.htm Needs Improvement = 1 No = 0 Yes = 2 a. Discussion of Potential Accelerated Actions (AA's) based on any negative trends Yes No Needs Improvement b. NTSB P-11-20 Meaningful Metrics Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: ? Excavation Damages per 1000 Locate Tickets has stayed about the same from 2014 to 2017 at a little over 3 per 1000 tickets. This is a significant drop from 2010 when the number was almost 5. ? Inspection days per 1000 miles of pipe have Dropped below 2014 and 2015 (25) levels to around 22 in 20156. ? Inspection days per MMO/LPG have gone up in 2016 from .70 to .80 and are higher than ever since 2010 when data started being tracked. ? Inspection days per 1000 miles of liquid pipelines have gone up to over 50 from around 42 in 2015. This is still a significant increase over any previous year recorded from 2010 ? 2013. ? Gas & Liquid Inspector qualification is down in the core training area but has gone up in the additional and 5-year retention area. Overall training suffers due to turn over of inspectors. ? Gas Distribution System Leaks per 1000 miles of pipe. Number of leaks repaired has gone up over the 2015 to 2016. Number of hazardous leaks repaired has stayed the same 2015 to 2016. Number of outstanding leaks has decreased a small amount over the same period. ? Enforcement Program Evaluation is steady for both gas and liquid pipelines at 100 percent. ? Incident investigations for both gas and hazardous liquids has gone up to 100% in 2016 from around 75% in 2015. 21 Discussion with State on accuracy of inspection day information submitted into State Inspection Day Calculation Tool (SICT) Has the State updated SICT data? No = 0 Yes = 1 Evaluator Notes: SICT days = 4297 2017 Progress Report = 1572 TXRRC needs to work to improve the accuracy of the number of days estimated in the SICT 1 NA 22 Did the State verify Operators took appropriate action regarding Pipeline Flow Reversals, Product Changes and Conversions to Service? See ADP-2014-04 Needs Improvement = .5 No = 0 Yes = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes, they have added to their inspections. 1 1 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 10\n\n23 General Comments: Info Only Info Only Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: C6 - The TX RRC is not complying with their procedures in inspecting units within the time intervals established. The main issue is the time intervals between specialized inspections (OQ, IMP). In reviewing the yearly work plan there are some operators that have not had a specialized inspection (OQ, IMP) within the five year interval. Example Inspection Packages; #115558-IMP, #116027-IMP, #116538-OQ, The TX RRC needs to improve on the inspection interval to meet their established intervals per their procedures. Loss of 1 Point C13 - Inspections completed use inspection forms that include a previous review of IMP plan, along with monitoring progress on operator tests and remedial actions. In addition, the review takes in to account program review and updates of operators plan(s) per 49 CFR 195.452 Subpart c. The individuals performing these inspections met PHMSA qualification requirements. Tx RRC is not meeting their 5 year re-inspection interval for all intrastate regulated Operator's IM Plans, which is noted on question C6. Loss of 1 point C18 - Stephanie Weidman, the program manager, has reviewed the status of all waivers granted in Texas and is now in the process of having the status of each up dated. She will be working with Kay MacGyver in PHMSA HQ. (Recommendation to be reviewed in 2019 evaluation) Total points scored for this section: 40 Total possible points for this section: 42 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, 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 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 c. Procedures regarding closing outstanding probable violations Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: a. Section 3.6 has procedure to notify an operator when a noncompliance is identified. A'. Section 3.2.2 send notice to corp officer or mayor. b. Section 10 Compliance and Enforcement Procedures. c. appendix B flowchart. Changed procedures so did not include mayor or owner of master meter. will make changes to procedures to include mayor and owner. 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 Yes = 4 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1-3 a. Were compliance actions sent to company officer or manager/board director if municipal/government system? Yes No Needs Improvement b. Document probable violations Yes No Needs Improvement c. Resolve probable violations Yes No Needs Improvement d. Routinely review progress of probable violations Yes No Needs Improvement e. Within 30 days, conduct a post-inspection briefing with the owner or operator of the gas or hazardous liquid pipeline facility inspected outlining any concerns; and Yes No Needs Improvement f. Within 90 days, to the extent practicable, provide the owner or operator with written preliminary findings of the inspection. Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: Compliance actions are tracked through the Pipeline Evaluation System (PES) Civil penalties are in statue and there are guidelines for assessment. No issues were identified. 3 Did the state issue compliance actions for all probable violations discovered? 2 2 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: HL review of Accidents: 0 injuries 0 fatalities 58 cost between $50K & $6.62M Reviewed the 7 most expensive accidents: Incident ID numbers; 1637, 1518, 1566, 1642, 1616, 1548, 1634. Also, 5 add'l accidents with enforcement actions: Package ID numbers (incident ID): 114830 (1512), 116136 (1627), 116640 (1670), 114756 (1509), 115540 (1571). 4 Did compliance actions give reasonable due process to all parties? Including \"show cause\" hearing if necessary. Yes = 2 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: Yes. Texas Administrative Code (TAC) 121.206 and 207 has \"Shoe Cause\" hearing process. 2 2 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 12\n\n5 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) Yes = 2 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: Program Manager is aware of the civil penalty process. TAC 8.135 is law which states civil penalty actions. A panel consisting of Kari French, Jim Osterhous, and Stephanie Wiedner decide on accessing and the amount of civil penalty. They are now using the state guidelines for the amount of civil penalties. 6 Can the State demonstrate it is using their enforcement fining authority for pipeline safety violations? Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: 1 1 Yes. The TXRRC had 30 compliance actions in 2017 with $18500.00 in civil penalties. All penalties were collected in 2017. 7 General Comments: Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 15 Total possible points for this section: 15 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 13\n\nPART E - Accident Investigations Points(MAX) Score 1 Does the state have written procedures to address state actions in the event of an incident/ 2 2 accident? Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: SOG Section 8 has procedures for addressing incident/accident investigations. 8.1.1.2 addresses the need for documentation to verify there's sufficient data gathered if no onsite investigation was made. 2 Does state have adequate mechanism to receive and respond to operator reports of 2 2 accidents, including after-hours reports? And did state keep adequate records of Incident/ Accident notifications received? Chapter 6 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: TXRRC has a 24 hour answering system that transfers calls to on call inspector. Section 18 has incident procedures. On site investigation will be conducted on all reportable incidents. Have acknowledgement of MOU and of federal/state cooperation in case of an incident/accident. 3 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 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: Reviewed incident telephonic reports and they had sufficient information to support that no onsite investigation was needed. Procedure states that they would gather sufficient information to support their decision not to go onsite. 4 Were all accidents investigated, thoroughly documented, and with conclusions and 3 3 recommendations? 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 where appropriate Yes No Needs Improvement Evaluator Notes: a. RRC documents all observations in PES and on PHMSA Form 11. b. Contributing factors were documented on their investigation reports. c. The information from the investigations is being reviewed for recommendations from the operator to reduce recurrences of failures. 5 Did the state initiate compliance action for violations found during any incident/accident 1 1 investigation? Yes = 1 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: Hazardous liquid incidents were reviewed and compliance actions were issued for all violations found during the investigations. 6 Did the state assist Region Office or Accident Investigation Division (AID) by taking appropriate follow-up actions related to the operator accident reports to ensure accuracy and final report has been received by PHMSA? (validate report data from operators concerning incidents/accidents and investigate discrepancies) Chapter 6 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 Evaluator Notes: The TX RRC works with PHMSA AID and the region to provide updates and information. 1 1 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 14\n\n7 Does state share lessons learned from incidents/accidents? (sharing information, such as: 1 1 at NAPSR Region meetings, state seminars, etc) Yes = 1 No = 0 Evaluator Notes: Yes, the TX RRC shares lessons learned during their State of the State address during the annual NAPSR SW Region meetings.. 8 General Comments: Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 11 Total possible points for this section: 11 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 15\n\nPART F - Damage Prevention Points(MAX) Score 1 Has the state reviewed directional drilling/boring procedures of each pipeline operator or 2 2 its contractor to determine if they include actions to protect their facilities from the dangers posed by drilling and other trench less technologies? Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes, the TX RRC has added question to Standard Inspection reports on Hazardous liquid, distribution, and transmission inspections. 2 Did the state inspector verify pipeline operators are following their written procedures 2 2 pertaining to notification of excavation, marking, positive response and the availability and use of the one call system? Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes, the TX RRC has added question to Standard Inspection reports on Hazardous liquid, distribution, and transmission inspections. 3 Did the state encourage and promote practices for reducing damages to all underground 2 2 facilities to its regulated companies? (i.e. such as promoting/adopting the CGA Best Practices encouraging adoption of the 9 Elements, etc.) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes. Yes, the TX RRC did 20 events in 2017 where they presented and material was handed out. Mock Line Strike ? a full mobilization PL incident drill. 4 Has the agency or another organization within the state collected data and evaluated 2 2 trends on the number of pipeline damages per 1,000 locate requests? (This can include DIRT and other data shared and reviewed by the pipeline safety program) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 Evaluator Notes: Yes, the RRC collects data on a monthly basis and their damages per 1000 locates dropped from 3.20 to 3.03 from 2015 to 2016, and remain the same for 2017. The damages have been cut in half since 2008. 5 General Comments: Info Only = No Points Evaluator Notes: Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 8 Total possible points for this section: 8 DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program Evaluation Texas RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS, Page: 16\n\nPART G - Field Inspections Points(MAX) Score 1 Operator, Inspector, Location, Date and PHMSA Representative Info Only Info Only Info Only = No Points Name of Operator Inspected: (1) Enterprise Pipeline; (2) Pasadena Refinery (PRSI) Name of State Inspector(s) Observed: (1) Larry Snelson; (2) Kennedy Kiprotich Location of Inspection: (1) Houston, TX; (2) Pasadena, TX Date of Inspection: (1) October 23-27, 2017 & February 21-23, 2018; (2) March 5-9, 2018 Name of PHMSA Representative: (1) Chris McLaren; (2) Agustin Lopez Evaluator Notes: (1) Chris McLaren's (PHMSA PHP50) Field Evaluation of the Great State of Texas' Railroad Commission's Hazardous Liquid Integrity Management Inspection of Enterprise Products Pipeline Inspections conducted October 23 - 27, 2017 & February 21 - 23, 2018. (2) Evaluated Mr. Kennedy Kiprotich conduct an inspection of Pasadena Refinery pipeline systems. He inspected three pipelines which included portions of the O&M Procedures, records and a field inspection. 2 Was the operator or operator's representative notified and/or given the opportunity to be present during inspection? Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 Evaluator Notes: (1) Yes. 1 Point. Many emails were exchanged TRRC and John D. Tresp, Sr. Pipeline Compliance Engineer, 1100 Louisiana St. Houston, TX 77002, Desk: 713-381-6831, Cell: 832-675-0674, jdtresp@eprod.com (2) Yes, the operator was notified with enough notice and given the opportunity to have personnel present. 3 Did the inspector use an appropriate inspection form/checklist and was the form/checklist used as a guide for the inspection? (New regulations shall be incorporated) Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 2 2 Evaluator Notes: (1) Yes ? 2 Points. PHMSA HL IM Protocol Form revised September 2017 was used for the inspection. TRRC State Procedures for conducting IM inspections reviewed and checked for the conduct of the inspection (TRRC Guidelines Section 17 ? IM Inspections). (2) Yes, the inspector utilized the HL inspection form to use as a guide and to documents results of inspection. 4 Did the inspector thoroughly document results of the inspection? Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 2 2 Evaluator Notes: (1) Yes ? 2 Points. PHMSA Gas IM Protocol Form revised September, 2017 was completed for the inspection. This form was attempted to be uploaded to the HL IMDB. However, TRRC has been receiving error messages ? like Line 115 error? Question C-13 & 14 has been modified in the State Evaluation Form, so States are no longer required to upload IM or OQ results to the external databases. (2) Yes, the inspector documented results on the inspection form and on the PEZ database. DUNS: 028619182 2017 Hazardous Liquid State Program E","truncated":true,"body_characters":49997}