Pipeliner's Resource Library

Pipeliner's Resource Library

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Definitions

Adequate Information: a section of the PHMSA CRM rule that addresses the need for a pipeline controller to be adequately knowledgeable about all aspects of the pipeline they are responsible for operating. This includes being informed about the changes and modifications to the pipeline or its operations. This can be challenging to accomplish in a control room because of the schedules and shift rotations.

Alarm: a visible and/or audible means of indicating to the pipeline controller that an abnormal operating condition exists, which requires the controller’s response, without which response a bad outcome will occur. It is important to note that most SCADA/HMI tools call all notifications “alarms.” The alarm management program definition of an alarm is “requires action.”

Alarm Management: the process of ensuring that the alarms are optimally selected, designed, prioritized, and documented. In practice, each operator should take a holistic approach to alarm management, including policy and procedure for alarm rationalization, alarm logging, alarm-related shift handover actions, alarm analysis, compliance, and continual improvement of the alarm management program. The PHMSA Control Room Management Rule (49 CFR Parts 192 and 195) and API 1167 provide guidance on implementing an alarm management program.

Alarm Rationalization: the process of documenting the alarm-specific process to verify, diagnose, determine causes, and take the appropriate course of action to respond to an alarm.

Alarm Response: a specified course of action for the pipeline controller when presented with an alarm through the SCADA system on their HMI display. Ideally, the controller will follow the rationalized procedure.

Alarm Response Sheet (ARS): a critical element of alarm response and indicates what the alarm is, the cause of the alarm, how to verify the cause, and what actions should be taken given the cause.

API 1113: assists SCADA system designers in identifying issues relevant to the development or redevelopment of a control center.

API 1130: a recommended practice published by the American Petroleum Institute and incorporated by reference into the U.S. pipeline regulations in 49 CFR 195.134 and 49 CFR 195.444 for how pipeline operators should design, operate, and maintain their computational pipeline monitoring (CPM) systems. This is a critical document for any pipeline operator with CPM-based pipeline leak detection.

API 1149: defines the requirements for using computational models to evaluate uncertainties in a pipeline that affect leak detectability.

API 1161: provides guidance for developing and maintaining an Operator Qualification (OQ) program compliant with OQ regulations.

API 1164: outlines SCADA cybersecurity processes that could take years to implement correctly depending on the complexity of the SCADA system.

API 1165: refers to the Recommended Practice for Pipeline SCADA Displays. This standard outlines the best practices for designing and implementing displays that are used by controllers to evaluate information available in all operating conditions.

API 1167: a recommendation from PHMSA for rationalizing alarms in the control room. Rationalizing alarms means reviewing each alarm in the SCADA system and capturing the cause of the alarm, bad instrumentation or bad actors, and the operating condition.

API 1168: a Control Room Management guideline that outlines shift handover (SHO) requirements and adequate information in the control room.

API RP 1167: provides pipeline operators with recommended industry practices in the development, implementation, and maintenance of an alarm management program. Pipeline SCADA Alarm Management provides guidance on elements that include, but are not limited to, alarm definition, philosophy, documentation, management of change, and auditing.

CatM: also known as LTE Cat-M1, is Category 1 of the LTE-M IoT network technology.

Computational Pipeline Modeling (CPM): a digital method of mapping out a pipeline’s operational conditions and processes to track the flow of a liquid or gas through the pipeline.

Control Room Management: the process of safely managing controllers, control rooms, and SCADA systems used to remotely monitor and control pipeline operations.

Control Room Management Rule (CRM Rule): introduced by PHMSA (49 CFR Parts 192 and 195) to provide regulations and guidelines for control room managers to safely operate a pipeline. PHMSA pipeline safety regulations prescribe safety requirements for controllers, control rooms, and SCADA systems used to remotely monitor and control pipeline operations.

Control Room Team Training: includes training exercises required by PHMSA to ensure inter-departmental communication and alignment with policies & procedures during normal and abnormal operating conditions.

Cybernetics: the use of technology to control a system and implement triggers that cause the system to take an appropriate action. The American Petroleum Institute (API) Cybernetics Committee addresses issues related to the control room and pipeline operations.

Cybersecurity: the collection of systems and processes designed to protect networks, devices, programs, and data from cyber attacks, damage, and unauthorized access.

Data Rate: data rate is the average number of bits (bitrate), characters or symbols (baudrate), referenced as bits per second (bit/s) and bytes per second (B/s).

Emergency Response: a specified course of action that takes place when an emergency is identified. In some cases, an alarm advances from alarm response to emergency response. The goal is to expedite mitigation and minimize consequence by following a clear path to address the emergency situation.

Fatigue Management: the process of managing controller workload and ensuring controller alertness through Hours of Service scheduling and other fatigue mitigation steps to comply with the CRM Rule.

Flow Computer: averages and records all digital signals received from various types of flow meters, as well as analog or digital signals from temperature, pressure, and density transmitters.

Flow Monitoring: an analysis tool that provides a detailed view of the data to and from machines. When flow monitoring is enabled, its output defines which machines are exchanging data and over which application.

FotA: Firmware over the Air is a method of sustaining a technology by being able to remotely manage its firmware during its life.

HART: Highway Addressable Remote Transducer is a protocol using 4-20ma for the process signal with digital protocol carrying configuration and diagnostic data.

HazLoc: Hazardous Locations, such as Class I Div. 2, and Zone 2.

Human-Machine Interface (HMI): the user interface that connects an operator to the controller in pipeline operations. High-performance HMI is the next level of taking available data and presenting it as information that is helpful to the controller to understand present and future activity in the pipeline.

  • High-Performance HMI: an advanced level Human-Machine Interface system that feeds data from a computer to the operator to make informed decisions. High-Performance HMI extends the capabilities of SCADA in pipeline operations and complies with the ISA 101 requirement by providing an HMI philosophy, style guide, and design guide.

Industrial Control Systems (ICS): capture the control systems and instrumentation used for industrial process control in oil & gas and other key industries.

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT): the use of connected devices for industrial purposes, such as communication between network devices in the field and a pipeline system.

ISM band: Instrument, Scientific & Medical RF bands allocated by each country as being “License Free”.  These utilize frequency hopping techniques to mitigate collisions.

LoRaWAN: a non-cellular LPWAN technology based on open design by Semtech.

LPWAN: Low Power Wide Area Networks (LoRaWAN, MIOTY, LTE-M, NB-IoT, others)

LTE (Long Term Evolution): the cellular wireless technology bridging todays 3G to 4G, to 5G.

LTE-M: a cellular LPWAN, Long Term Evolution for Machines, designed for IoT, but with data rates higher than NB-IoT.

Main Terminal Units (MTUs): used in a SCADA system to operate the Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) and transmit their data back to the facility.

MIOTY: a non-cellular LPWAN like LoRa but utilizing packet splitting for signal immunity and reliability.

MQTT: Message Queuing Telemetry Transport is an open and freely available publish/subscribe protocol for efficiently moving data between devices.  This protocol is extremely lightweight.

NB-IoT: a cellular LPWAN, is a single carrier, narrow band frequency, small data rate technology achieving superior range and indoor application performance.

NFC: Near field communications is an RF technology & protocol used within 4cm or less.

NIST Framework: consists of standards, guidelines, and practices to promote the protection of critical infrastructure. The prioritized, flexible, repeatable, and cost-effective approach of the Framework helps owners and operators of critical infrastructure to manage cybersecurity-related risk.

Node: the term for an IoT device that consist of several parts and many functions around signal interface, processing, and transmitting data.  It can be quite simple or very extensive.

OPC-UA: OPC Unified Architecture is an open and freely available protocol for communicating between industrial equipment and software systems for data collection and control. It is a service-oriented architecture (SOA) as opposed to a publish/subscribe.

Operating Condition: represents the state of a pipeline system as either “normal,” “abnormal” (AOCs), or “emergency.

  • Normal: operation within the normal parameters of flow and pressure, plus normal access to timely information regarding the operating condition.
  • Abnormal: a condition identified by the operator that may indicate a malfunction of a component or deviation from normal operations that may (a) indicate a condition exceeding design limits or (b) result in a hazard(s) to persons, property, or the environment.
  • Emergency: a condition where action is required to mitigate potential injury to people, property, and/or the environment.

Operator Qualification Training (OQ Training): a process of training control room decision-makers who have the authority to act in normal, abnormal, and emergency situations.

Outside-the-Fence: refers to points not associated with the local process module.

Pipeline Safety Management Systems (PSMS): an industry-wide focus to improve pipeline safety, driving toward zero incidents.

Point to Point Verification (P2P): confirms that input or output from each field instrument is accurately and reliably reflected in the SCADA information presented to the controller.

Polling Rates: refer to the rate at which a station, unit, or communication device reports its location from the field.

Programmable Logic Controller (PLCs): a computerized system in operations that automates processes that require reliability within a given time period. PLCs are especially useful for pipeliners to automate difficult tasks in the field.

Remote Telemetry Units (RTUs): electronic devices placed in the field. RTUs enable remote automation by communicating data back to the facility and taking specific action after receiving input from the facility.

  • EFM Flow Computer: a type of RTU that measures the flow of gas or fluid and reports the data back to the facility. It differs from an RTU in that it is designed to compute flow using standard flow equations with specific timing and reporting requirements.

SCADA: a system of software and technology that allows pipeliners to control processes locally or at remote location. SCADA breaks down into two key functions: supervisory control and data acquisition. Included is managing the field, communication, and control room technology components that send and receive valuable data, allowing users to respond to the data.

SCADA Communication: there are several types of communication methods that can be used in a SCADA system to transmit data.

  • Satellite Communication: includes a natural delay from the time a data request is made and the time the data is sent.
  • Poll Response: only sends data if requested by the host. This creates limitations because you may need to wait up to 15 minutes for the full data package to be received.
  • Report by Exception: sends data to the host when there is a change to the data.
  • MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport): a publish-subscribe protocol that allows data to move quickly and does not bog down the system with unnecessary requests.

Shift Handover (SHO): the process of controllers transferring their shift to the next controller in a methodical way that complies with the CRM Rule and API RP 1168 for shift handover procedures. The CRM regulations require an operator to define the information that will be transferred during shift handover and the process by which this information is exchanged.

Situation Awareness: the controller’s ability to perceive environmental elements and events, comprehend their meaning, and project their status after a variable has changed.

WiHART/WirelessHART: a wireless implementation of HART using 2.4GHz radio frequency.

WSN (Wireless Sensor Network): used to distinguish WiHART and other proprietary local area sensor networks from LPWAN technologies

Podcasts

Episode 25: Enhancing Pipeline Security: Does Cybersecurity Alone Provide Adequate Protection? with Michael Nushart


This month’s Pipeline Technology Podcast episode sponsored by Pipeline & Gas Journal features Black & Veatch’s Michael Nushart discussing his recent article in the Pipeline & Gas Journal where he goes over the different layers of pipeline security. In this month’s episode, you will learn about how securing a pipeline requires considerations beyond cybersecurity. Other […]
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Episode 237: What Every Pipeliner Should Know About Cyber Security with Russel Treat


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features host Russel Treat walking through how each individual pipeliner should think about pipeline cyber security as it relates to supporting their operation. The episode centers on three key areas of threats, understanding, and mitigation. Russel goes into deep detail about cybersecurity threats, the importance of understanding what the nature […]
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Episode 229: The Natural Compliance Journey with Dale Schafer


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Dale Schafer, Vice President of Business Development with EnerACT Energy Services and VP Business Development for EnerSys Corporation, discussing the Natural Compliance Journey. In this episode, you will learn what Natural Compliance is, the three critical parts of Natural Compliance, the glue that holds it all together, how Natural […]
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Episode 20: Cybersecurity Directive for Oil & Gas Pipelines Targets Vulnerabilities with Marco Ayala


In this month’s edition of the Pipeline Technology Podcast, sponsored by Pipeline & Gas Journal, ICS security expert Marco Ayala joins host Russel Treat to discuss the recent cybersecurity directive issued to oil and gas pipeline operators. In this episode, you will learn about the key lessons from the high-profile Colonial cybersecurity incident, the two […]
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Episode 222: The Evolving Cyber Threat Landscape with Annie McIntyre


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Annie McIntyre of EverLine discussing the evolving cyber threat landscape in the oil and gas pipeline industry. In this episode, you will learn about the importance of cybersecurity in the oil and gas industry. The conversation will cover lessons learned from various cyber security attacks, such as the recent […]
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Episode 221: Data, Dashboard & Risk Management with Sheila Howard


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Sheila Howard of P.I. Confluence discussing the key aspects of data, dashboards, and pipeline risk management to support an effective safety management program in pipeline operations. In this episode, you will learn about the role of organizational failure in high-profile pipeline incidents. You will also learn how to use […]
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Episode 220: Gamification for Conducting Exercises with Clint Bodungen


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features IT and cybersecurity subject matter expert Clint Bodungen discussing the use of gamification for conducting exercises in pipeline operations. In this episode, you will learn about how ThreatGEN is being used to support cybersecurity efforts in industrial settings, including oil and gas pipelines, how pipeline operators can benefit from […]
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Episode 3: Using Data Analytics to Drive Measurement Validation Rules with Michael Thompson


This edition of the Oil & Gas Measurement Podcast features Michael Thompson of ElevenThirteen Solutions discussing using data analytics to drive measurement validation rules in oil and gas. In this episode, you will learn about the use of data mining and statistical analysis tools to improve measurement data analysis and validation. Michael discusses the use […]
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Episode 210: Using Digital Twins in Pipelining with Floyd Baker


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Floyd Baker of Antea North America discussing the use of digital twins technology in the pipeline industry. In this episode, you will learn about the fundamentals of digital twin technology, how this technology is being deployed throughout the oil and gas industry, how to start utilizing digital […]
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Episode 205: Performing an API 1165 HMI Review with Tony Alston


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Tony Alston of EnerSys Corporation providing insight on how to perform an API 1165 HMI review in alignment with the recommended practice for Pipeline SCADA displays. In this episode, you will learn about the fundamentals of setting up HMI displays for controllers, the importance of performing a […]
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Episode 197: Running Pipeline Field Operations From Your Phone with Glenn Kelley


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Glenn Kelley of Muddy Boots discussing the opportunity to use a modern software platform to run field operations from your phone. In this episode, you will learn more about the features and functionality of the Muddy Boots all-in-one field operations platform, how the software platform solves common […]
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Episode 13: Cybersecurity Directive for Oil & Gas Pipelines Targets Vulnerabilities with Marco Ayala


In this month’s edition of the Pipeline Technology Podcast sponsored by Pipeline & Gas Journal, ICS security expert Marco Ayala joins host Russel Treat to discuss the recent cybersecurity directive issued to oil and gas pipeline operators. In this episode, you will learn about the key lessons from the high-profile Colonial cybersecurity incident, the two […]
Show Notes & Transcript >

Episode 189: Using API 1130 to Create An Auditable Leak Detection System with Carin Meyer


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Carin Meyer of Atmos International discussing the importance of pipeline operators aligning with API 1130 to create a compliant Leak Detection System. In this episode, you will learn about the importance of advancing beyond just having a computational pipeline monitoring (CPM) system to support leak detection, how […]
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Episode 11: Colonial Pipeline Cyberattack Raises Alarm for Midstream Companies with Niyo “Little Thunder” Pearson


In this month’s edition of the Pipeline Technology Podcast sponsored by Pipeline & Gas Journal, Niyo “Little Thunder” Pearson of ONE Gas discusses his timely article on why the recent Colonial Pipeline cyberattack should raise alarms for midstream companies. In this episode, you will learn about what caused the Colonial Pipeline cybersecurity attack, the lessons […]
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Episode 186: Natural Compliance Using a Control Room Alarm Management Example with Ross Adams


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Ross Adams of EnerSys Corporation explaining what natural compliance is in the pipeline control room. In this episode, you will learn why pipeline operators should strive for natural compliance in the control room, the three systems required to achieve natural compliance (program management, process management, and task execution), why […]
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Episode 185: Pipeline SMS Cultural Survey & Stakeholder Engagement with Sheila Howard


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Sheila Howard of P.I. Confluence discussing the important aspects of a Pipeline SMS cultural survey as part of a pipeline operator’s efforts to support stakeholder engagement. In this episode, you will learn about how to structure questions to receive valuable feedback from pipeline personnel, the importance of tracking and […]
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Episode 10: Application of Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing for Pipeline Integrity & Security with Dr. Alasdair Murray and Jeff Williamson


In this month’s edition of the Pipeline Technology Podcast sponsored by Pipeline & Gas Journal, Dr. Alasdair Murray and Jeff Williamson of OptaSense discuss their recent article, “Application of Distributed Fiber-optic Sensing for Pipeline Integrity and Security.” Listen to this episode to learn more about how fiber optic technology has evolved over the past decade, […]
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Special Edition: Colonial Pipeline Cybersecurity Incident with Pascal Ackerman and Clint Bodungen


This is a special edition of the Pipeliners Podcast covering the recent high-profile pipeline cybersecurity incident affecting Colonial Pipeline. In the episode, host Russel Treat is joined by IT and cybersecurity subject matter experts Pascal Ackerman and Clint Bodungen to discuss the latest news reports covering how the threat was launched, the use of ransomware […]
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Episode 178: Application of Pipeline SMS with Gary White


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Gary White, former president and CEO of P.I. Confluence, discussing how to apply Pipeline SMS in pipeline operations. This is episode two in a three-part series on the subject of Pipeline SMS. In this episode, you will learn about how to implement the Plan Do Check Act (PDCA) cycle, […]
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Episode 177: How the Pandemic, ESG & Asset Integrity Are Impacting Technology with Matt Harrison


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Matt Harrison of WellAware discussing how the COVID-19 pandemic, environmental social governance (ESG), and asset integrity have been impacted by the use of technology. In this episode, you will learn about how the pandemic accelerated the rate of technology adoption to support remote connectivity in pipeline operations, […]
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Episode 166: Alarm Rationalization with Doug Rothenberg


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Doug Rothenberg returning to the podcast for Part 2 of a discussion about alarm management and pipeline safety, this time focusing on alarm rationalization. In this episode, you will learn about how to efficiently perform or support alarm rationalization to create value for your pipeline operation, the importance of […]
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Episode 165: Alarm Management & Pipeline Safety with Doug Rothenberg


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Doug Rothenberg returning to the podcast to discuss the important topic of alarm management applied to pipeline safety. In this episode, you will learn about the key differences between alarm management and process safety management, the four foundational principles of alarm management, the importance of creating clear definitions within […]
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Episode 163: Overcoming Challenges in Alarm Management


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Ross Adams of EnerSys Corporation interviewing Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat about how to overcome challenges in alarm management for the pipeline control room. In this episode, you will learn about the influence of the PHMSA CRM Rule on alarm management, the value of optimizing alarm rationalization to help […]
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Episode 159: Regulatory Compliance from a Process Perspective with Charlene Wright


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Charlene Wright discussing how pipeline operators can more effectively view and approach regulatory compliance. In this episode, you will learn about the importance of processes organically flowing from the management of assets in pipeline operations, how to optimize recordkeeping to support compliance, the advancement of Pipeline SMS […]
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Episode 158: Control Room Hours of Service with Ross Adams


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Ross Adams of EnerSys Corporation returning to the podcast to discuss Hours of Service considerations in the pipeline control room, especially during the holiday season. In this episode, you will learn about how to manage or support Hours of Service in the current COVID-19 environment, how to support fatigue […]
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Episode 157: Developing Pipeline Applications for the Cloud with Scott Williams


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Scott Williams of EnerSys Corporation returning to the podcast to discuss the key technological developments around developing pipeline software applications for the cloud. In this episode, you will learn about the risk factors associated with moving to the cloud, how advances in technology have supported the development of cost-effective […]
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Episode 154: Analytics, Machine Learning, and Digital Twins for Pipeline Control Room Technology with Doug Fisher


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Doug Fisher of Rogue7 discussing the key elements of using analytics and machine learning as pipeline control room technology. In this episode, you will learn about how analytics and machine learning are applied to pipeline control room technology, how it can add value and improve your ability […]
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Episode 152: Practical Application of Leak Prevention and Detection with Adrian Kane


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Adrian Kane, Vice President of Atmos International, discussing the practical application of leak detection in the pipeline industry. In this episode, you will learn about the purpose of leak detection, the distinction between leak detection and leak prevention, and the key differences between approaches to leak detection in the […]
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Episode 149: The PHMSA Rulemaking Process with Alan Mayberry


Alan Mayberry, the Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety with PHMSA, talks to Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat about the PHMSA rulemaking process. In this episode, you will learn about the PHMSA rulemaking process, why it’s important, and how Congress and PHMSA work together to go through the rulemaking process. You will also learn about the […]
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Episode 147: Communications at the Network Edge with Robert Ward


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Robert Ward and host Russel Treat discussing the latest information and trends around communication systems at the network edge. In this episode, you will learn about the latest industrial communication trends around LTE, PrivateLTE/CBRS, LPWAN’s, and more, how SCADA, LPWAN, LoRaWAN, CBRS, LTE, Edge, and Wireless Sensors […]
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Episode 146: Designing Metering & Regulation Stations with David Slavin


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features David Slavin of Burns & McDonnell discussing the fundamental elements of designing pipeline gas metering and regulating stations. In this episode, you will learn about the importance of metering and regulation in aiding the prevention of accidental ruptures, the key components of a metering and regulation station, and how […]
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Episode 145: Security Information Sharing & Analysis with Jim Linn


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Jim Linn of AGA and DNG-ISAC discussing pipeline cybersecurity, analysis, and information sharing. In this episode, you will learn about the importance of cybersecurity for the pipeline industry, how information is gathered to support ISAC, and how the DNG-ISAC determines potential cybersecurity threats. You will also learn […]
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Episode 134: Public Awareness & New API RP 1162 with John Erickson


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features returning guest John Erickson of the American Public Gas Association (APGA) discussing the revisions to API Recommended Practice 1162 and the impact on public awareness. In this episode, you will learn about the importance of public awareness when dealing with pipeline leaks. You will also learn about how technology […]
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Episode 133: Changing Culture in the Pipeline Industry with Coleman Sterling and James Cross


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Coleman Sterling and James Cross of Energy Worldnet (EWN) discussing how the culture is changing in the pipeline industry and the subsequent impact on training. In this episode, you will learn about the evolution of pipeline industry training, achieving efficiencies in training, matching up training with the emotional intelligence […]
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Episode 132: Automating Tasks in the Pipeline Control Room with Vicki Knott


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Vicki Knott of Crux OCM discussing the advancement of innovative and cutting-edge automation capabilities in the pipeline control room. In this episode, you will learn about robotic industrial process automation, how this process can be utilized to support control room personnel, and the challenges of bringing this […]
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Episode 127: Contractors and Pipeline SMS with Steve Allen


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Steve Allen of Energy Worldnet (EWN) discussing Pipeline Safety Management Systems (Pipeline SMS) from the perspective of utilizing contractors and providing training to ensure safety. In this episode, you will learn about improving the safety culture in the oil and gas industry, how construction quality management differs from an […]
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Episode 126: A Conversation With PHMSA Administrator Skip Elliott


The Pipeliners Podcast is honored to speak with PHMSA Administrator Howard “Skip” Elliott about his role as a President-appointee overseeing pipeline safety at the federal level. In this conversation with host Russel Treat, you will learn about the role of PHMSA in the federal government, what is required to close the small gap in pipeline […]
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Episode 112: The New Data Acquisition in SCADA with Dan Nagala


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features the return of Dan Nagala to discuss what the new Data Acquisition of SCADA looks like in pipeline operations with host Russel Treat. In this episode, you will learn about where data communications in SCADA is headed for pipeline operators, the history of data communications, and Dan’s technology predictions […]
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Episode 108: State Regulator Pipeline Safety Perspective with Steve Allen


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Steve Allen of Energy Worldnet (EWN) discussing state regulator pipeline safety with host Russel Treat. In this episode, you will learn about the difference in jurisdictions between PHMSA and state regulators, the growing need for pipeline safety management systems at the state level, the importance of communication […]
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Episode 106: Cyber Security Monitoring & Incident Response with Pascal Ackerman


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features cybersecurity expert Pascal Ackerman of ThreatGEN discussing security monitoring and incident response relevant to the pipeline industry. In this episode, you will learn about the WannaCry ransomware attack, how to use tools to help prevent viruses in your network, the importance of getting the architecture right and maintaining that […]
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Episode 103: Workload Analysis with Charles Alday


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features pipeline control room expert Charles Alday discussing the important elements of Workload Analysis and how to perform a workload assessment. In this episode, you will learn about the various methods used to analyze workload and fatigue, how to set benchmarks and use data to analyze objective and subjective factors, […]
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Episode 101: Situation Management with Doug Rothenberg


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Doug Rothenberg, a pipeline alarm management expert, discussing the importance of situation management. In this episode, you will learn about situation management, how to improve situation management in your control room through Rothenburg’s book, “Situation Management for Process Control,” and the importance of understanding weak signals as […]
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Episode 97: New PHMSA Pipeline Safety Rules with Keith Coyle


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features a timely discussion of the new PHMSA pipeline safety rules with industry expert Keith Coyle and host Russel Treat. In this episode, you will learn how the PHMSA rulemaking process works, more about the three new PHMSA rules published to the federal registry in October 2019, and how PHMSA […]
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Episode 96: Process Safety Management and Alarm Management with Stephen Swanson


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features first-time guest Stephen Swanson discussing process safety management (PSM) and pipeline alarm management with host Russel Treat. In this episode, you will learn about the opportunity to integrate process safety management and alarm management, the different needs of PSM and alarm management, the cultural challenges associated with knowledge and […]
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Episode 94: Data Analytics and Edge Technologies with Scott Williams


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Scott Williams of EnerSys Corporation discussing the latest trends in data analytics and edge technology with host Russel Treat. In this episode, you will learn about Python, language series, Docker, and more. You will also get a deeper insight into data analytics and how the conversation around edge technology […]
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Episode 92: Unique Cyber Security Requirements for Pipelines with Pascal Ackerman


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features cybersecurity expert Pascal Ackerman of ThreatGEN discussing unique requirements and challenges for pipeline operators with host Russel Treat. In this episode, Pascal explains his professional background and how he got into cybersecurity as a profession. He also explains the difference between traditional cybersecurity and ICS cybersecurity and how ICS […]
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Episode 91: The Public Awareness Rule with Bill DeFoor


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Bill DeFoor of the Municipal Gas Authority of Georgia discussing the PHMSA public awareness rule with Russel Treat. The discussion centers on the PHMSA requirement for effective communication between pipeline operators and stakeholders that include the affected public, emergency officials, local public officials, and excavators. You will also learn […]
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Episode 90: The Audit as Quality Management with Dan Scarberry


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features pipeline control room expert Dan Scarberry discussing auditing from the perspective of quality management with host Russel Treat. In this episode, Dan explains his background and work experience leading up to his retirement and the event that triggered the start of control room management. He also talks about his […]
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Episode 89: Introduction to PODS with Jackie Smith


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Jackie Smith, president of PODS, discussing the Pipeline Open Data Standard with host Russel Treat. In this episode, you will learn about the PODS Data Model, the role of the PODS association supporting data integrity, how to combine pipeline integrity data with location data and mapping to perform risk […]
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Episode 87: High-Performance HMI and API 1165 with Philip Jones


This week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode features Russel Treat and Philip Jones of EnerSys Corporation discussing the fundamentals of High-Performance HMI for the pipeline control room. In this episode, you will learn about the difference between HMI and High-Performance HMI, the importance of keeping things simple in an HMI build, why the perspective of a controller […]
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Episode 83: PHMSA GPAC Meeting Update & the Mega Rule


Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat returns from Washington, D.C. with a timely update on the Gas Gathering Rule (Mega Rule). Listen for an important recap of the discussions during the PHMSA GPAC Meetings that advanced the Mega Rule toward final rulemaking. Included were two expected results on data collection from all gathering pipelines and the […]
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Episode 80: Direct Fatigue Monitoring with Clementine Francois


Direct fatigue monitoring is essential for today’s pipeline control room. But, is it really about fatigue mitigation or maximizing alertness to ensure safe operations? To help understand the latest technology available for enhancing alertness, Clementine Francois of Phasya joins Russel Treat on the Pipeliners Podcast to discuss this important topic. Listen for unique insight on […]
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Episode 76: Simplifying EFM Data Collection with Adam Hill


Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat hosts part two of a conversation with Adam Hill of Kepware/PTC on how to simplify EFM data collection using the latest technology. In this episode, you will learn about the history of data collection in SCADA systems, the difference between the primary data polling protocols, the importance of edge communications […]
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Episode 75: Fundamentals of OPC with Adam Hill


Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat welcomes first-time guest Adam Hill of Kepware/PTC to discuss the fundamentals of Open Platform Communications (OPC) used in pipeline automation systems. You will learn about the most important terminology used in OPC, how OPC technology has changed over time since starting as a Microsoft platform, the introduction of a Unified […]
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Episode 72: API 2019 Pipeline Conference Recap with Russel Treat


In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat recaps the 2019 API Pipeline Conference and Control Room Forum held in April in Phoenix. Russel recaps the most important takeaways from the conference, gives his perspective on the conversations held throughout the conference, and provides updates on rulemaking. Topics covered include the state of […]
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Episode 69: Instrumentation Issues in Leak Detection Systems with Dan Sensel, Jason Dalton & Kyle Miller


In the fourth of a series of episodes, Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat welcomes Dan Sensel, Jason Dalton, and Kyle Miller from Marathon Pipe Line to discuss the ongoing maintenance and monitoring of leak detection systems. The discussion focuses on specific pipeline situations involving instrumentation, leak detection, optimizing alarms, pressure and metering considerations, the accuracy […]
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Episode 67: Plato and API 1165 with Russel Treat


Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat takes you deep into the weeds this week to connect Plato’s Allegory of The Cave to the API 1165 industry standard for pipeline control room displays, thanks to insight from pipeline consultant Charles Alday. Listen for the latest information on the expected 2019 update to API 1165, the goal of […]
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Episode 64: New Gas Gathering Rule with Russel Treat


Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat hosts an informative episode dissecting the new Gas Gathering Rule that is advancing through the PHMSA rulemaking process. Find out what you need to know about the rulemaking timeline, what is covered under the new rule, the types of lines that will be brought under the new rule, the importance […]
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Episode 63: Alarm Management and Emergency Response with Ross Adams


Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat is joined by control room expert Ross Adams of EnerSys Corporation to discuss two important facets of control room management: alarm management and emergency response. In this episode, you will learn about the importance of advancing from alarm rationalization to Alarm Management, establishing clear definitions in the control room to […]
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Episode 60: Cyber Vulnerability and Risk Quantification with Clint Bodungen


In this week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode, Russel Treat welcomes back cybersecurity expert Clint Bodungen to discuss the latest developments in cybersecurity, specifically cyber vulnerabilities and quantifying risk. You will learn about the CVSS scoring system that Clint’s team is building upon to create the IVSS system for comprehensive risk quantification calculation for industrial cybersecurity, how […]
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Episode 54: PRCI Data Sharing Initiative with president Cliff Johnson


The Pipeliners Podcast is honored to welcome Cliff Johnson, the president of the Pipeline Research Council International (PRCI), for a timely and important discussion with host Russel Treat. The discussion centers on how the PRCI has developed a data hub to collect, store, and share information from across the pipeline industry to continue advancing the […]
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Episode 51: The Challenge of Alarm Management with Jeremy Coleman


The Pipeliners Podcast welcomes back Jeremy Coleman of Northwest Natural to discuss the challenges of Alarm Management, dating back to the original conceptualization getting the process going. Jeremy and host Russel Treat walk through the timeline of advancing from the concept of Alarm Management to achieving compliance to optimizing Alarm Management for pipeline operations excellence. […]
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Episode 46: Tightly Integrated & Loosely Coupled OT with William Gage


In this week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode, Russel Treat welcomes back SCADA and cybersecurity expert William Gage to discuss how to maximize your Operations Technology (OT) capabilities in pipeline systems. William shares his insight on the difference between IT and OT, the role of cybersecurity in OT systems, the importance of risk management, and more valuable […]
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Episode 45: IT/OT Convergence and Risk Management with Clint Bodungen


In this week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode, Russel Treat welcomes back cybersecurity expert Clint Bodungen to discuss the importance of IT/OT convergence to support risk management in pipeline operations. Listen to this episode to learn about how technology is enabling IT and OT to bridge gaps to manage risk, the differences between the cybersecurity needs for […]
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Episode 44: Preparing for PHMSA CRM Audit with Ross Adams


In this week’s Pipeliners Podcast episode, Russel Treat welcomes back Ross Adams of EnerSys Corp. to discuss the important elements of preparing for a PHMSA control room audit. The conversation is based on many discussions at industry conferences this year, where pipeline operators, control room managers, and other personnel have shared lessons learned on how […]
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Episode 23: API Pipeline Conference Update with Russel Treat


In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat provides a recap of the API Pipeline Conference and Cybernetics Symposium. Listen to Russel share his perspective on the various sessions and conversations related to pipeline safety and compliance. Also, Russel provides an important report on the regulations and recommended practices that were discussed at […]
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Episode 22: Gamification of Cybersecurity with Clint Bodungen


Industrial Cybersecurity expert Clint Bodungen returns to the Pipeliners Podcast to discuss an important trend for pipeline safety and training: the gamification of cybersecurity. In this episode, you will learn about Clint’s new product designed to enhance the training capabilities in pipeline operations and other relevant industries. Russel and Clint will walk through pipeline incidents […]
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Episode 21: Team Training with Charles Alday


Team Training is a hot topic in the pipeline industry following the latest regulatory requirement issued by PHMSA for control room management. In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, learn from an industry veteran of more than 50 years, Charles Alday, who shares his knowledge of team training, roles and responsibilities, and unique training methods. […]
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Episode 16: Cybersecurity Threats and Awareness with Daniel Nagala


In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Russel Treat welcomes Daniel Nagala of UTSI International Corporation to discuss the latest cybersecurity threats and awareness issues facing the pipeline industry. The conversation focuses on what Mr. Nagala has seen in the field — both domestically and internationally — to identify the various challenges facing pipeline operators. […]
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Episode 15: SCADA Systems – How Much Data is Enough?


NEWLY ADDED: Read or Watch Russel Treat’s full presentation on SCADA systems from the ENTELEC conference: Download the PDF Presentation View the Full Video Series How much data is enough? This is a common question when evaluating your data acquisition capabilities and the individual needs of your pipeline operation, particularly when considering the Computational Pipeline […]
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Episode 11: Simplifying the SCADA Build with Scott Williams


Before you can take a deep dive into SCADA technology, you need to understand how to simplify the SCADA build. In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, Russel Treat and guest Scott Williams review the ins and outs of setting up SCADA systems, getting buy-in from key stakeholders, and cutting off issues in the beginning […]
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Episode 8: Control Room Team Training with Ross Adams


In the first Pipeliners Podcast episode of 2018, host Russel Treat welcomes Ross Adams back to the podcast to discuss the timely topic of control room team training. This episode goes into detail about the new frequently asked questions (FAQs) published by PHMSA at the start of this year. What do the FAQs mean for […]
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Episode 7: PHMSA Pipeline Advisory Committee Meeting Report


In this episode of the Pipeliners Podcast, host Russel Treat delivers his take on the PHMSA Pipeline Advisory Committee meetings held in December in Washington, D.C. After attending these meetings, Russel relays the information that came out of the discussions, what the conversations were among industry leaders and regulators, and what is coming in the […]
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Episode 6: Risk Based Cybersecurity with Clint Bodungen


Do you want to feel instantly smarter? Listen to ICS cybersecurity guru, author, hacker, and educator Clint Bodungen talk about the latest cybersecurity issues and threats affecting the pipeline industry. Learn about the history of cybersecurity, threats that involve national security, and the rapidly-changing technology that helps assess new and unique threats to know how […]
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Episode 5: High Performance HMI with Jeremy Coleman


What is a High Performance HMI? Learn about the intricacies of this approach to the control room HMI from Jeremy Coleman of Northwest Natural, including how the High Performance HMI delivers enhanced visual information to the control room enabling operators to more rapidly understand the operating condition. You will also learn about the history of […]
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Episode 4: Cybersecurity with William Gage


As new technology emerges at a rapid pace, so does the threat of cyber attacks on pipelines. Will Gage, an expert in ICS cybersecurity, joins the Pipeliners Podcast to discuss the two-pronged challenge of (a) ensuring that operators are properly trained on how to use technology and (b) preventing attackers from taking over operations. Will […]
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Episode 3: New CRM Developments with Ross Adams


Control Room Managers face a tremendous challenge ensuring they are not only compliant with PHMSA rules, but that they are adequately prepared for PHMSA audits. Ross Adams from EnerSys Corporation joins Russel to discuss this challenge. Russel and Ross also discuss: How PHMSA works and what they are looking for in their audits. How the […]
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Episode 2: IOT and SCADA with Dan Turner


The history of technology in pipeline operations is full of revolutionary changes. The latest is the Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrial IoT (IIoT) technology that is essentially SCADA for the enterprise. This week’s guest, Dan Turner, says we’re just in the very beginning stages of seeing this technology integrate with the legacy devices that […]
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Videos & Presentations

How Much Data is Enough for Alarm Management?
Supporting Situation Awareness Through Data Optimization

Whitepapers & eBooks

EnerSys Whitepaper: Integrate Control Room and Field Operations Using Tools to Support Pipeline Safety

Ineffective communication between the pipeline control room and field operations is a routine source of safety issues for pipeline operators. Operators need access to a set of robust tools to optimize the connection between the control room and field operations:

  • Operate efficiently.
  • Minimize safety risks.
  • Avoid fines.
  • Always operate in Natural Compliance with regulations.
May. 5, 2022
Download

How to Implement High-Performance Pipeline Control

The world is constantly changing for pipeline operators. You need a complete software suite to operate a high-performance pipeline operation now and into the future. Download this eBook from Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat to understand how to address the top challenges facing pipeline operators.

  • Enhance pipeline operations and effectiveness.
  • Establish policies and procedures to operate safely.
  • Comply with changing government regulations.
  • Achieve ROI for your pipeline operation.
Download Now

Whitepaper: Optimizing Emergency Response Through Alarm Management

Control room managers wrestle with a common question – how many alarms are too many? And, will controllers be able to retain situational awareness when supporting emergency response?

Here is a different way of thinking about this common issue: it’s about the quality of the alarm analysis and rationalization, not the number of logs generated in your system.

Pipeliners Podcast host Russel Treat establishes the difference between alarm response and emergency response, discusses optimizing your alarm management program to better support both alarm and emergency response, and identifies actions to take during emergency response.

Download Now