One of the most challenging processes for pipeline operators is to be able to coordinate planned and unplanned outages between the field personnel and the control room. From standard processes such as pig runs, or hydrostatic tests to more critical situations including ESD, pipe leaks, or pipe breaks. These outages represent losses in revenue and reputation for the operators; therefore, coordinating and planning these activities are fundamental tasks to minimize pipeline downtimes. 

This presentation describes different approaches for field teams to coordinate with the control room the scheduling of such activities, as well as, the benefits of deploying a collaborative digital environment to ensure all the different players involved in these complex operations can be informed and up-to-date with all the relevant details.

As part of the presentation, it will be described how a major pipeline operator in the USA plans, performs and tracks the activities related to its outages along all its assets, and how this process has represented important savings and tangible efficiencies in its operation.