Good industry standards are nowadays available to support a logical and consistent approach to many of the key processes of pipeline integrity management (PIM). Available standards range from supervisory processes such as API 1160 and ASME B31S, to specialized codes for defect assessment such as ASME B31G and RSTRENG. However, every pipeline and every pipeline operator is unique. This means consideration must be given as to how standardized processes can be reconciled with the need for flexibility when dealing with the distinctive features of both pipelines and their owners. Distinguishing features must be acknowledged and supported in the implementation and operation of any PIM system. Recognizing distinctive features and engineering a PIM system to suit individual requirements, means a PIM system needs to be customized to particular pipelines and individual pipeline owners.

This paper examines how a PIMS system can be customized to the individual needs of a pipeline operator. It reviews the underlying principles of customization and examines how codified processes, rules and standards can be used during customization to ensure conformity with industry best practices. Moreover, the paper examines the nature, roles and interactions of the three main components of integrity management (IM), people, processes and technology, with the aim of improving the delivered value of the IM program.

Finally the associated presentation shows how all these aspects were taken into account in the ROSEN Asset Integrity Management Support (ROAIMS) software.