Mr. Erik Milito - The House Committee on Natural Resources ...

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FOR ONSHORE OIL AND GAS PRODUCTION OPERATIONS AND LEASES 21
areas occupied by the public. Consideration should also be given to sleeving lines or using heavier walled pipe in
these areas.
<strong>The</strong> qualitative evaluation should consider the following:
1) public impact,
2) environmental impact (including potential natural resource damage assessment liability),
3) damage to crops and domesticated animals,
4) cleanup costs,
5) political or regulatory impacts.
f) Corrosion inhibition measures (external and internal). All equipment should be manufactured from materials
which are suitable for their operating environment. NACE MR 0175 should be consulted for further guidance, as
applicable.
g) Burial to optimum depth to reduce exposure to hazards such as plowing, freezing, and other construction.
h) Provisions for various crossings (roads, streams, and other lines).
i) Optimum location for blowdown tanks, valves, etc.
j) Noise abatement (where appropriate).
k) Miscellaneous variable factors including operating pressures, temperature changes, line expansion, and desired
safety factors.
l) If electrical distribution lines are to be installed in areas where raptors are likely to use them as perches,
consideration should be given to installing wooden perch guards or cross members on the poles above the lines
to prevent the birds from coming in contact with the charged lines.
7.4 Construction and Installation
7.4.1 Lease line routes and applicable rights-of-way should utilize the smallest practical surface area, consistent
with prudent operations.
7.4.2 Unnecessary damage to trees and other vegetation adjoining lease line routes should be avoided.
7.4.3 If contractors are used to install lines, the operator should verify that the contractor has implemented a safety
program that includes a written hazard communication program. <strong>The</strong> contractor should supply MSDSs for all
hazardous materials brought on site.
7.4.4 Appropriate inspections should be performed during construction to ensure design specifications are met.