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pipeline displacement with nitrogen pigging

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Safe Work Procedure: Pipeline Displacement with Nitrogen Pigging

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER] Revision Date: [DATE] Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE] Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the safe displacement of pipelines using nitrogen pigging. It applies to all operations involving the use of nitrogen to displace pipeline contents and includes the preparation, execution, and post-operation activities. This procedure is applicable in environments where pipelines are used for transporting gases or liquids under pressure.

Consult related procedures on hazardous energy control and pressure testing for comprehensive safety measures.

2. Definitions

Pig A device inserted into a pipeline to clean or inspect the pipeline or to separate different fluids being transported.

Pigging The process of using a pig to perform maintenance operations on a pipeline.

Pigcatcher A device used to catch and remove pigs from a pipeline.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

  • Ensure all workers are trained and competent in pigging operations.
  • Verify that all safety measures are in place before starting the operation.
  • Conduct pre-job briefings and ensure compliance with this SWP.

3.2 Workers

  • Follow the SWP and use PPE as required.
  • Report any unsafe conditions or incidents immediately.
  • Participate in pre-job briefings and training sessions.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

  • Monitor compliance with safety procedures.
  • Assist in incident investigations and safety audits.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

HazardRiskControl Measures
High pressureRisk of explosion or injuryUse pressure relief devices and ensure proper isolation [1]
Nitrogen exposureAsphyxiationEnsure proper ventilation and use of respiratory protection [2]
Pig ejectionImpact injuryEnsure pigcatcher is depressurized and isolated before removal [3]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential to ensure safety during pigging operations.

  • Hard hat - Protects against head injuries.
  • Safety goggles - Protects eyes from debris and chemical splashes.
  • Gloves - Protects hands from sharp objects and chemicals.
  • Respiratory protection - Required when working in areas with potential nitrogen exposure.
  • Steel-toed boots - Protects feet from heavy objects.

Inspect PPE before use and replace any damaged equipment.

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is crucial for safe operations.

  • Pig - Ensure it is suitable for the pipeline size and material.
  • Pig launcher and catcher - Properly installed and maintained.
  • Pressure relief devices - Installed and functional to prevent overpressure [4].
  • Ventilation equipment - Ensures safe air quality in enclosed spaces.

Inspect all equipment before use and maintain according to manufacturer specifications.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in pigging operations and emergency response procedures.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Discuss the operation plan, potential hazards, and emergency procedures with all team members.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clear of unnecessary personnel and equipment. Verify that all isolation and safety devices are in place.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Preparation

Ensure all equipment is ready and safety checks are completed.

  • Verify isolation of the pipeline.
  • Check that the pig is correctly loaded into the launcher.
  • Confirm that all safety devices are operational.

Step 2: Execution

Perform the pigging operation according to the plan.

  • Gradually increase nitrogen pressure to move the pig.
  • Monitor pressure gauges and adjust as necessary.
  • Ensure communication is maintained with all team members.

Step 3: Completion

Safely conclude the operation and restore normal conditions.

  • Depressurize and isolate the pigcatcher before removing the pig [3].
  • Conduct a post-operation inspection of the pipeline.
  • Document the operation and any incidents.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

  • Ensure all personnel are trained and aware of emergency procedures.
  • Maintain clear communication throughout the operation.
  • Regularly inspect equipment and PPE for defects.
  • Use proper isolation techniques to prevent accidental release of pressure.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Evacuate the area and notify emergency services in case of a major incident.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

  • Pressure Release - Isolate the area and depressurize the system safely.
  • Nitrogen Leak - Evacuate the area and use respiratory protection.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents and near-misses immediately. Conduct a thorough investigation to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.

12. References and Related Documents

  • Occupational Health and Safety Code
  • Manufacturer's equipment manuals
  • Company emergency response plan

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

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4 source record(s)

Sources used for this answer

[1] Occupational Health and Safety Code

Page 307

Open source document

Source excerpt

782 (4) An employer must ensure that when liquid carbon dioxide or liquid nitrogen is being used at the work site - (a) the valve controls and workers are positioned on the side of the piping unit opposite to the side of the pipe supplying the well, - (b) a check valve is installed as close as reasonably practicable to the wellhead except while cementing or selective acidizing is occurring, and - (c) a bleed-off valve is installed between a check valve and the wellhead. AR 191/2021 s782;242/2022;202/2024 783 Repealed AR 242/2022 s179. ## Gas sample containers 784 An employer must ensure that containers, piping and fittings used in collecting gas samples are used and transported in such a way as to prevent unintended release of their contents. AR 191/2021 s784;242/2022;202/2024

[2] Occupational Health and Safety Code

Page 448

Open source document

Source excerpt

alternative systems, 215.5(5) blanking or blinding systems, 215.5 certification by engineer, 215.5(5) double block and bleed system, 215.5 isolation requirements, 215.4-215.5 pigging and testing, 215.6 pressure hazards, 776.1 restraining hoses and piping, 188 mine excavations at safe distances from, 535 pigging and testing, 215.6 restraining hoses and piping, 188 sliding prohibited, 756 specifications and certifications restraining hoses and piping, 188(2) storage of pipes, 765 transfer of hazardous products, 402 See also buried or concrete-embedded facilities; confined and restricted spaces; hazardous energy control; hot taps; oil, gas and geothermal energy ## pit ## defined in definition of mine, 1 in definition of mine site, 1 in definition of surface mine, 1 pit, 1 brakes on rubber-tired, self-propelled equipment, provisions not to apply, 577-579 mine walls, 541 specifications and procedures mine walls, 541 See also surface mines pits, confined See confined and restricted spaces ## placards (WHMIS) conditions for use, 398(5), 401(1) content and location, 401 transfer of hazardous products, 402 See also Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) ## plans competent person to prepare plan, 2.2 ## platforms building shafts, safeguards main and secondary work platforms, 313(1) no platform at doorway, safety structures, 313(2) falling objects protections cantilever hoist platforms, 318(5) toe boards, 321 portable ladders used with, 136(c) on suspended scaffolds, 341(7) See also elevating platforms and aerial devices; scaffolds and temporary work platforms ## pneumatic energy in definition of hazardous energy, 1 See also hazardous energy control pneumoconiosis See health assessments for exposure to asbestos, silica or coal dust ## police report of loss or theft of explosives, 468.52 polishing disc See grinders Portable Containers for Gasoline and Other Petroleum Fuels (CSA), 163(2)(d) portable containers for hazardou

[3] Occupational Health and Safety Code

Page 139

Open source document

Source excerpt

215.6 (2) An employer must ensure that, before a pig is removed, - (a) a pigcatcher on piping or a pipeline is isolated from the piping or pipeline, - (b) the pigcatcher is depressurized, and - (c) there are no workers at the end of the piping or pipeline or in the immediate area of the pigcatcher if the piping, pipeline or pigcatcher is under pressure during the pigging and testing operation. 215.6 (3) An employer must ensure workers directly involved in the pigging and testing operation are positioned so they are not in a location where they may be injured by the operation. AR 242/2022 s20

[4] Occupational Health and Safety Code

Page 303

Open source document

Source excerpt

- (b) the rotary table is under the continuous control of a designated worker positioned at the rotary table controls, - (c) the area around the rotary table is clear of any equipment that may contact the rotating equipment, - (d) workers positioning slips or tongs remain clear of rotating equipment, - (e) all lines attached to rotary tongs are placed outside of the direct line of rotating slips, and - (f) any other hazard that may impact the health and safety of workers is controlled or eliminated. 773 (4) Prior to initiating or resuming drilling operations, an employer must ensure that all workers and equipment are positioned outside of the area marked in accordance with subsection (1)(a). AR 191/2021 s773;242/2022;202/2024 ## Rotary tong safety - 774 An employer must ensure that a rotary tong has - (a) a primary device that prevents unintended movement of the rotary tong, and - (b) a secondary device that prevents unintended movement of the rotary tong if the primary device fails. AR 191/2021 s774;242/2022;202/2024 ## Counterweights 775 An employer must ensure that a counterweight cannot come into contact with any worker. AR 191/2021 s775;242/2022;202/2024 ## Fluid pumping and piping systems 776 (1) An employer must ensure that when a positive displacement pump is used to pump incompressible fluids - (a) the positive displacement pump and its attachments have valves, pipes and fittings rated equal to or greater than the pump's maximum working pressure, - (b) the positive displacement pump is protected against freezing, - (c) except in the case of a pumping wellhead, a pressure relief device is installed on the discharge side of a positive displacement pump, - (d) a valve is not installed between the pressure relief device and the positive displacement pump, - (e) piping on the discharge side of the pressure relief device does not have a valve, - (f) if shear pins are used in a pressure relief device, they are of the design and strength specified in the

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