Natural Gas Safety Inspections
Atmospheric Corrosion
The Atmospheric Corrosion Program establishes uniform procedures that monitor metallic pipelines for atmospheric corrosion. Avista’s Atmospheric Corrosion Program also includes specific continuing surveillance inspections, including settled, overgrown, overbuilt meters and meters requiring protection in the form of a barricade or bollard.
Cross Bore
The Cross Bore Inspection Program is focused on mitigating the risks associated with the potential of cross bores which involve a natural gas mainline or service line that has been bored through a sewer/septic main or lateral during installation. The program utilizes camera technology, both pre- and post-construction, to inspect existing sewer laterals and ensure no damage resulted from the installation of gas facilities.
Isolated Steel
The Isolated Steel Program identifies and documents sections of isolated steel (free from cathodic protection) pipeline in Avista’s system, including isolated service risers. Each isolated riser or section of pipeline is replaced within a specified time frame after it is identified.
Leak Survey
The Leak Survey Program establishes procedures for the detection, classification, and reporting of natural gas leakage in Avista’s distribution and transmission pipeline systems and facilities. Included in the program scope are leak survey types, methods, leak classification criteria, leak investigation and follow-up procedures, as well as record keeping requirements.