Ensuring the continuing effectiveness of leak detection systems is of paramount importance for pipeline operators in order to meet tightening safety and environmental regulations and to minimize the potential risks of catastrophic events. The updates of 49 CFR 195 require pipeline operators to evaluate the capability of their leak detection systems to protect the public, property, and the environment and modify them as necessary to do so.
These systems often perform well when installed but degrade over time due to a wide range of factors including problems with instrumentation, software, maintenance, and operations.