DOC Assessment

Pipeline crossings at waterways represent areas of elevated risk. For operators, maintaining accurate knowledge of pipeline location and condition at these crossings is essential. Consistent with PHMSA expectations, monitoring pipeline position and movement at water crossings enables early identification of exposure or instability, supports timely mitigation measures, and helps reduce the likelihood of pipeline failure and environmental impact.

Bending strain can develop in pipelines as a result of ground movement, geohazards, or changes in support conditions, increasing the risk of mechanical damage or loss of integrity. These effects are often localized and may not be apparent through traditional inspection approaches alone. Consistent with PHMSA integrity management expectations, identifying and characterizing bending strain supports early recognition of abnormal loading conditions, enables risk-based assessment, and informs timely mitigation actions to maintain safe pipeline operation.

Across North America and beyond, millions of decommissioned and abandoned wells, along with thousands of miles of out-of-service pipelines, remain buried and poorly documented. In the absence of reliable records, locating and verifying these assets presents ongoing safety, environmental, and operational challenges. Consistent with PHMSA integrity and safety expectations, accurately identifying decommissioned and abandoned assets supports risk awareness, land-use planning, and environmental protection. Reliable mapping enables operators to reduce uncertainty, address potential legacy risks, and support responsible long-term asset and site management.