Challenges for the European Pipeline Industry with Current and Future Standards and Regulations

The CONCAWE Oil Pipeline Management Group was established in the early 1970’s as a forum for European oil pipeline operators to exchange views and experiences in the fields of safety and environmental management. One of the groups key activities has been to undertake an annual collation of pipeline spillage data and generate European wide performance statistics. The presentation outlines the extent of the database and provide a detailed analysis of pipeline spillages and their causes. The paper will also provide an analysis as to the current and future challenges for the pipeline industry in terms of industry standards and regulations in order to maintain its record for safe and environmentally friendly operation.