How does Y2K affect pipeline safety compliance?

Companies are responsible for addressing potentially adverse conditions on their pipelines. The pipeline safety regulations require procedures to assure safety for adverse, abnormal and emergency operating conditions. In addition to checking computer databases, software applications and embedded systems for potential Y2K problems, pipeline operators should review their procedures and contingency plans to determine if they are adequate to assure safety on January 1, 2000.

The Office of Pipeline Safety will fully consider a company’s Y2K preparation if a violation or incident results from a Y2K problem. Any subsequent compliance action will be mitigated because of these preparations. However, the Office of Pipeline Safety will pursue strong enforcement action, including maximum civil penalties, for violations by any pipeline company which does not prepare for potential Y2K problems and thereby endangers the public or the environment.

Visit the American Petroleum Institute webpage (www.api.org/y2k) for useful information for petroleum pipeline companies. The American Petroleum Institute serves as the umbrella organization for petroleum pipeline companies on the President’s Council Y2K Oil and Gas Workgroup.