Document No.

GP 43-01
une Applicability Group
Date 30 June 2005

Guidance on Practice for

Principles of Onshore Pipeline Design and
Project Execution

GP 43-01

BP GROUP
ENGINEERING TECHNICAL PRACTICES
30 June 2005 GP 43-01
Guidance on Practice for Principles of Onshore Pipeline Design and Project Execution

Foreword

This is the first issue of Engineering Technical Practice (ETP) BP GP 43-01. This Guidance on
Practice is not a stand alone document. It shall be used in accordance with other ETP Documents
Series 43 for pipelines, which provide further detail necessary to undertake and execute a pipeline
project.

This document is intended to provide an understanding of the key features, requirements, and issues
relating to an onshore pipeline system in terms of design and project execution. It uses reference
material available in BP and Amoco heritage documents.

GP 43-00 stands above GP 43-01 to provide a foundation high level overview for a pipeline system,
giving technical project definition.

In undertaking a pipeline project the MPCP shall be adopted to ensure that the elements and
requirements of the CVP are followed as applicable to the scale of the project.

Copyright  2005, BP Group. All rights reserved. The information contained in this
document is subject to the terms and conditions of the agreement or contract under which
the document was supplied to the recipient’s organization. None of the information
contained in this document shall be disclosed outside the recipient’s own organization
without the prior written permission of the Director of Engineering, BP Group, unless the
terms of such agreement or contract expressly allow.

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Table of Contents
Foreword.......................................................................................................................................... 2
1. Scope...................................................................................................................................... 5
2. Normative references.............................................................................................................. 5
3. Terms and definitions.............................................................................................................. 6
4. Symbols and abbreviations.....................................................................................................7
5. Onshore pipeline project overview..........................................................................................8
5.1. Third party interfaces and reputation............................................................................8
5.2. CVP phases............................................................................................................... 10
5.3. Key tasks and deliverables.........................................................................................11
5.4. Pipeline system.......................................................................................................... 13
5.5. Pipeline not piping......................................................................................................14
5.6. Environmental and Social Impact Assessment studies (ESIAs).................................15
6. Appraise and Select design phases......................................................................................15
6.1. General...................................................................................................................... 15
6.2. Design basis............................................................................................................... 17
6.3. Hydraulic analysis – line sizing...................................................................................18
6.4. Pipe wall thickness and material grade selection.......................................................18
6.5. Preliminary route selection.........................................................................................18
6.6. Terrain evaluation and geohazard identification..........................................................19
6.7. Crossings and special areas......................................................................................19
6.8. Pipeline right of way and access................................................................................20
6.9. Pipeline stability......................................................................................................... 20
6.10. Pipeline trenching, burial, and reinstatement..............................................................20
6.11. Pipeline pigging.......................................................................................................... 21
6.12. Pipeline corrosion design...........................................................................................21
6.13. Preliminary pipeline stress analysis............................................................................21
6.14. Pipeline integrity.........................................................................................................21
7. Define and Execute pipeline project phases..........................................................................21
7.1. Detailed engineering phase........................................................................................21
7.2. Surveys and ESIA......................................................................................................22
7.3. Design finalisation......................................................................................................22
7.4. Pipeline installation analysis.......................................................................................22
7.5. Pipeline construction and installation..........................................................................22
8. Execute success................................................................................................................... 23
Annex A (Normative) List of 43 Series Engineering Technical Practices.........................................25
Annex B (Informative) Deliverables Checklist.................................................................................26
Bibliography................................................................................................................................... 28

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Guidance on Practice for Principles of Onshore Pipeline Design and Project Execution

List of Figures

Figure 1 – CVP Phase.................................................................................................................... 11

Figure 2 – Project Phase Flow Diagram.........................................................................................12
Figure 3 – Onshore Pipeline Appraise and Select Design Activities...............................................16

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Guidance on Practice for Principles of Onshore Pipeline Design and Project Execution

1. Scope

This GP provides guidance on the principles of the design and project execution phases for onshore
pipelines transporting both hydrocarbons and associated fluids. It is applicable to onshore flowlines,
injection, export, and distribution pipeline systems. Where appropriate, a pipeline system herein
includes the pipelines and pump/compressor stations and terminal(s) when, for example, identifying an
optimum pipeline system design. More detailed guidance on the design of the pipeline,
pump/compressor stations and terminals is covered elsewhere by more specific GPs.

The applicability of this document starts at the Access phase of CVP and continues through to
Operations.

2. Normative references

The following normative documents contain requirements that, through reference in this text,
constitute requirements of this technical practice. For dated references, subsequent amendments to, or
revisions of, any of these publications do not apply. However, parties to agreements based on this
technical practice are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of
the normative documents indicated below. For undated references, the latest edition of the normative
document referred to applies.

BP
GP 43-00 Guidance on Practice for Pipeline Systems (Overview Document).
GP 43-05 Guidance on Practice for Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
of Pipelines.
GP 43-08 Guidance on Practice for Selection and Use of Industry Codes and
Standards.
GP 43-10 Guidance on Practice for Route Data Acquisition and Route Selection for
Pipelines.
GP 43-20 Guidance on Practice for Onshore Pipeline Design Details.
GP 43-22 Guidance on Practice for Above Ground Pipeline Facilities.
GP 43-27 Guidance on Practice for Terrain Evaluation and Ground Hazard
Assessment.
GP 43-31 Guidance on Practice for Linepipe Procurement.
GP 43-40 Guidance on Practice for Onshore Construction Civil Engineering Issues.
GP 43-50 Guidance on Practice for Guidance on Practice for Pigging, Pig
Launchers, and Receivers.
CVP Capital Value Process
gHSEr Getting Health Safety (Security) and Environment right
GOC Guidance on Certification
IM Integrity Management
MPCP Major Projects Common Process (mandatory for E&P)

US/British/International Codes and Standards

3. Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this GP, the following terms and definitions apply:

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Design Life
Period selected for the purpose of verifying by design that a replaceable or permanent component is
suitable for the anticipated duty.

Design Pressure
The Design Pressure selected as the maximum sustained pressure exerted by the pipeline contents to
which a pipeline is to be designed. This pressure is normally determined by a combination of the pipe
wall thickness, diameter, material grade and design factor ultimately selected.

Distribution line
A low pressure pipeline that delivers processed oil or gas fluids to the end user or to other modes of
transport, e.g. shipping.

Export line
A pipeline that transports liquid or gaseous fluids, partially or fully processed, between processing
facilities or between a processing facility and storage or pressure reduction station.

Flowline
A pipeline that transports unprocessed fluids, typically at high pressure and temperature, from the
wellhead to the first downstream process or collector component.

Injection line
A pipeline that directs processed liquids or gases to a wellhead, for flow into a reservoir formation, via
a wellhead, to support hydrocarbon production activity or for environmentally acceptable disposal.

MAOP
Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure or internal sustained pressure at which a pipeline system, or
parts thereof, is allowed to be operated - This pressure is determined (i.e. qualified) by the hydrotest
(i.e. hydrotest pressure/1,25 or 72% of SMYS, whichever is the lesser), taking into account any
elevation effects. Note: MAOP =/< the Design Pressure.

MATP
Maximum Allowable Transient pressure or internal transient pressure at which a pipeline system or
parts thereof is allowed to be operated - This pressure is limited to 10% above the MAOP.

MOP
Maximum Operating Pressure at which the system is normally required or set to operate (e.g. taking
into account any margins required between the operating set points and the MAOP). Note: MOP =/<
MAOP.

Onshore pipeline
Piping that transports fluids between onshore wellheads and processing facilities or between
processing facilities and refineries/tankage/distribution systems. Pipelines can be classified into four
categories; flowlines, injection lines, export lines, and distribution lines. The use of the word ‘pipeline’
in this GP applies to all four categories.

Pipeline
The installation through which fluids or gases are conveyed, including pipe, pig trap, components and
appurtenances up to and including the isolation valve(s) at the boundary limits.

Pipeline system
The pipeline(s) including flow control, metering, tankage, pumping and compression, control and data
acquisition, communications, and associated buildings.

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SMYS
Specified Minimum Yield Strength required by the specification or standard under which the material
is purchased.

4. Symbols and abbreviations

For the purpose of this GP, the following symbols and abbreviations apply:

BoD Basis of Design

BU Business Unit

CP Cathodic protection

DSP Decision Support Package

EA Engineering Authority

ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

FEED Front End Engineering Design

FM Finance Memorandum

HDD Horizontal directional drilling

HSSE Health, Safety, Security, and Environment

MoC Management of Change

O&M Operations and Maintenance philosophy

PEP Project Execution Plan

PHSER Project Health, Safety, and Environmental Review

ROW Right of way

SoR Statement of Requirements

SPU Strategic Performance Unit

TI Technical Integrity

5. Onshore pipeline project overview

5.1. Third party interfaces and reputation

5.1.1. General
a. The contact with third parties e.g. central, regional and local authorities, land owners and
users, field operators, public utilities, non governmental organisations (NGOs), special
interest groups, finance institutions (lenders), upstream suppliers, downstream customers,
contractors, etc., which is an integral part of an onshore pipeline, should not be
underestimated.

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b. GP 43-05 provides detailed guidance for conducting ESIAs, a subject that importantly
shall receive management and team attention from Access and on throughout the
subsequent project phases.
c. Accordingly, there are significant reputation issues that should be considered and
addressed at an early stage. To ensure that consultations commence early, appropriate
specialists shall be involved for BP from the start. Integration of the “reputation” team with
project management to prepare an explicit action and monitoring plan is essential. Many
large scale sensitive projects involve funds being borrowed from financial institutions.
Hence the potential involvement of infrastructure lenders shall be recognised. These issues
shall be addressed by the BU/project management at Access for implementation of a plan
within Appraise. Such a plan shall be integrated with the ESIA activities.

5.1.2. Commercial
a. Commercial internal liaison shall be considered as a key matter for attention from Access.
b. The project team should have a commercial/business lead to ensure that business
understanding is related throughout the team, linking across the BU to achieve a two way
flow of information.
c. Ensure the commercial and technical teams meet together sufficiently to avoid regulatory
misunderstanding.

5.1.3. Regulatory approvals

a. Depending on the pipeline location, where national and local requirements may dictate, the
pipeline design and construction shall follow US and/or British codes and standards.
b. GP 43-00 shall be met, including the local and national regulations.
c. In Appraise the regulatory requirements shall be thoroughly determined to form the basis
for regulatory compliance throughout the project.
d. The following outline shall be followed to protect BP when undertaking a pipeline project:
1. Appoint a Regulatory Interface lead who reports to the EA of the project.
2. Assign responsibility within each project discipline for regulatory interface and
compliance.
3. Follow GPs 43-00, 43-08, 43-20, 43-22 and 43-40 to ensure BP’s requirements in
design and construction are met. BP shall go beyond national and local requirements
to meet these GPs.
4. Ascertain in Appraise the codes, standards, and regulatory approval process in place
for the country of operation for design and on through all project phases.
5. If design and operating conditions go beyond country standards and regulatory
processes, e.g., extreme operating pressures, then a risk based approach to design to
demonstrate fully a safe system rather than a code compliant system shall be adopted.
6. Review the regulatory requirements with the planned codes and standards to resolve
conflicts.
7. Determine differences and plan forward to ensure the project satisfies requirements.
This approach shall be adopted for all project disciplines.
8. Establish a strong relationship with all authorities to establish confidence and mutual
understanding. Be prepared for difficult relationships and confusing advice. Have a
strategy to manage for success.
9. Prepare a regulatory approvals plan and incorporate it in the suite of key project
plans.

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10. Conduct regular reviews of the plan and ensure the project team is fully aware of the
plan and all implications.
11. Review the plan at progress meetings and at stage gate reviews. Involve senior project
management not just the EA.
12. Meet with the regulatory authorities frequently.
13. Do not make assumptions; seek clarification and resolution.
14. Be prepared to assist the authority in their thinking and understanding.
15. When conflict arises, ensure BP senior personnel are involved to provide guidance
and, if necessary, resolve differences, both internally and externally.
16. Ensure that the EA builds a strong link with the authorities and provides management
control in the project to assist resolution.
17. Allow sufficient time for regulatory approvals and processes. Consider the risk
potential to the project.
18. Document provision, presentations, legal support, dues/customs, and fees may be
necessary and shall be allowed for, with contingency.
19. Understand the impact of the regulatory process that requires BP to satisfy other
external third parties. Provide funds, time, and resources to conduct this process
effectively.
20. Talk to previous projects to bring their recent regulatory experience into the project.
21. Look at the history of the regulatory regime.
22. Be cooperative to help developing and ‘re-emerging’ countries to prepare or rewrite
their regulations.
23. Ensure the EA, the regulatory interface lead, and project discipline leads provide the
necessary expertise to meet regulatory requirements to program.
24. BP takes the regulatory lead, but recognising the limit of BP resources, ensures that
the contractors are closely involved to assist the process and fully support BP in
gaining approvals.

5.2. CVP phases

a. Similar to other projects, an onshore pipeline project shall consist of phases aligned to the
CVP gates, following the MPCP.
b. The pipeline project may be standalone or part of a larger project, depending on the scale
of the undertaking.
c. Figure 1 illustrates the primary project phases that should be applied for the pipeline, be it
part of a major project or standalone.
d. At completion of the Appraise phase the SPU/BU shall have identified a potential project
opportunity and confirmed its strategic fit.
e. As part of this opportunity, it should be apparent that an onshore pipeline system is an
option or a necessity to deliver hydrocarbons.

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Guidance on Practice for Principles of Onshore Pipeline Design and Project Execution

Figure 1 – CVP Phase

Appraisal Plan Define FM Sanction FM

Appraise Select Define Execute Operate

Appraisal Plan Project Execution Plan

Create a Confirm, Flawless

Distinctive Recycle, or
Execution
Project Dispose

f. For clarity, Select is the phase in which project feasibility should be addressed.
g. The Define phase should relate to FEED for the chosen concept from Select.
h. Detailed design should normally commence late in Define to give greater definition to the
sanction FM.
i. In Execute, detailed design and construction should be completed.

5.3. Key tasks and deliverables

a. As part of creating and executing a flawless project, the key elements shown in Figure 2
should drive the project to be distinctive and successful.
b. The priority throughout the project shall be to manage closely the highest risk of all, the
subject of HSSE. The objective shall be to fully satisfy BP Expectations (gHSEr) from
Access, Appraise to handover.
c. This should be the approach to conducting the project, thereby meeting MPCP
expectations.

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Figure 2 – Project Phase Flow Diagram

ACCESS

SPU/BU identify
potential project
Appraisal
APPRAISE & SELECT plan
Concept evaluation
Statement of Requirements Regulatory
(SoR) Interface
Chosen Concept
Operations Basis of Design HSSE/Risk/Integrity
– Cost/programme Management/Quality

Management of
Preliminary Project
Change process
Execution Plan (PEP)
(MoC)
Define FM Decision Support Package (DSP)

NO End or
Defin Recycle
e
Gate
YES Operations
HSSE/Risk/Integrity DEFINE Input
Management/Quality Detailed Design
Regulatory/3rd
Party Interfaces
Project Execution
Plan – final (PEP)
Basis of Design (BoD)

Sanction FM Decision Support Package (DSP)

Execut NO
e Gate

YES
EXECUTE
HSSE/Risk/Integrity Regulatory/3rd
Construct/Install/Test/
Management/Quality Party Interfaces
Commission

Operate Pipeline

Decommission
System

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d. The Appraisal Plan outlines work activities for Appraise and Select and should be updated
as a live document in these phases.
e. A project Quality Plan, for assurance and control, shall be prepared and maintained
throughout the project.
f. High priority shall be given to TI, as this is the key to providing integrity to the project
from inception, through design, procurement, construction, and installation.
g. The SoR, including an O&M, shall provide the basis for the development and assessment
of concepts, meeting the BU technical, operational, and business expectations.
h. The O&M should contain such things as sparing, availability expectations, and outline
maintenance, operations, and logistics philosophy with high level strategies (for example
manning, extent of automation, use of contractors, integrity, etc.).
i. The PEP shall explain how the project will be delivered, setting out the strategies, system,
plans, estimates, and procedures.
j. The PEP and SoR shall be subject to a MoC process. The PEP, later at Define, should be
finalised to support sanction.
k. The BoD, which represents the conversion of the SoR into a technical basis, shall describe
what is to be designed and built. It too shall be subject to MoC.
l. The DSP shall document the basis of the FMs submitted by project.
m. The DSP should be a comprehensive compilation of support information, across all
elements, commercial and technical.
n. Throughout the project phases, certain fundamental expectations shall be observed to
support and comply with BP Group Policy.
1. PHSERs, including Security, shall be conducted at specific stages in the CVP process,
satisfying gHSEr.
2. In addition to PHSERs, the framework requirements of gHSEr shall be followed in all
project CVP phases.
3. HSSE shall be given detailed attention and treated as a priority throughout the design
as this underpins and supports the construction and operation phases.
4. The BP Group IM Functional Standard shall be adopted by the project as part of the
Quality plan, and to satisfy the Operational requirements.

5.4. Pipeline system

a. Although this GP addresses the design principles for an onshore pipeline, such a design
should not be undertaken without due consideration being given to the requirements of,
and impact on, the necessary pump/compressor stations, and terminals.
b. For this reason, the pipeline should also be designed as a system.
c. The requirements of any terminal shall be included, such as:
1. Number and size of storage tanks.
2. Number and type of marine loading systems.
3. Need for volatile organic compound (VOC) recovery, etc.
d. Further, BP corporate and any other regulatory requirements relating to ESIA expectations
(e.g. energy efficiency and emission targets) shall be taken into consideration.
e. The above issues and new pipeline technologies should be carefully considered in
conjunction with one another at an early stage during the pipeline design, such that an

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Guidance on Practice for Principles of Onshore Pipeline Design and Project Execution

optimised pipeline system (i.e. pipeline, pump/compressor stations and terminal) can be
identified, and not one developed from isolated decision making.

5.5. Pipeline not piping

5.6. Environmental and Social Impact Assessment studies (ESIAs)

a. ESIA studies which should be initiated in Access, prior to Appraise, shall be conducted
throughout all CVP phases to assess the potential impact of pipeline construction and
operation.
b. ESIA undertakings shall be compatible with the planned design and construction methods
and vice versa.
c. Whilst not all projects require the same level of ESIA, an ESIA screening process shall be
carried out to identify:
1. Critical environmental and social risks.
2. Potential impacts.
3. Liabilities.
4. Significant or unusual regulatory compliance requirements.
5. Other concerns of the national and international stakeholders.

6. Appraise and Select design phases

6.1. General
a. Depending on the pipeline location, where national and local requirements may dictate, the
pipeline design and construction shall normally follow US and/or British Codes and
Standards, selected in accordance with the GP 43 series.
b. GP 43-20 and GP 43-40 are the ETPs for onshore pipeline design and onshore pipeline
construction respectively to be followed, unless local requirements exceed those in
GP 43-20 and GP 43-40.
c. The major design activities illustrated in Figure 3 should lead to the completion of the BoD
required to move to Define and Execute.
d. Operations personnel should be involved early in Select, with continued effort to build the
Operations team from Select through Define and Execute within the project team, thereby
being ready for commissioning and start-up.

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Figure 3 – Onshore Pipeline Appraise and Select Design Activities

BoD Development
Product data, design life & throughput
Line sizing & hydraulics
SoR
Environmental & climate data
Preliminary geophysical & geotechnical data
Operability & availability
Risk assessment & QRA
Interface with Regulatory Authorities

Appraise & Select

Isolation valves Pipeline Route Pipe wall thickness Tie ins Pipe Coatings
Controls End points Steel grade Valved Tees Corrosion coating
Telecomms Alignment Design factor Pig traps Weight coating
Leak detection Crossings Future requirements Cathodic protection
Surveys

Stability and Expansion

Trenching evaluation
Anchor points

Pipe Structural Analysis Pipeline Installation Evaluation

Operation, Maintenance,
Repair
Land use and protection
Access requirements
Inspection Preliminary Cost Estimate
ESIA and Programme

Preliminary BoD

e. The Appraise stage is the period when BP shall provide the design expertise supported by a
contractor(s) for certain elements, as required by the project.
f. Transferring from Appraise to Select should involve competitive tendering to appoint a
Select phase contractor working under BP management.
g. Such a contractor should transfer to Define, subject to achieving the required level of
performance.
h. An option to re-bid Define shall always be retained in Select, allowing BP sufficient time
to replace a poorly performing contractor for example or to enhance the contracted
expertise, or to suit the contracting strategy.
i. The BP project team shall be resourced to ensure that the team has core pipeline design and
project skills and experience.
j. The outline organisation should be started in Appraise thinking ahead to subsequent project
stages.
k. Key project positions should be filled by BP personnel, for example:
1. Project Manager.
2. Construction Manager.
3. Operations Manager.

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4. Interface Manager.
5. Engineering Manager and Engineering Authority.
6. Services Manager.
7. HSSE Lead.
8. Contracts and Procurement Lead.

6.2. Design basis

a. At the onset of Appraise, the data received at Access shall be verified for absolute validity.
b. The BoD shall be prepared along with the SoR to provide uniform and consistent data for
design.
c. In particular, field, environmental, geotechnical, and, where appropriate, reservoir data of
high quality shall be available.
d. A gap analysis on the data shall be completed early in Appraise.
e. Areas of data weakness shall be rectified including the undertaking of further data research
and onshore surveys, as may be necessary.
f. An ESIA screening or desk top study, including social impact, shall be conducted. (See
GP 43-05).
g. Importantly, the ESIA team, both BP and Consultant, shall be managed to ensure that
unintentional and/or unacceptable external commitments are not made.
h. Primary specific up-to-date design information should include, but not be limited to:
1. Locations of proposed and/or existing facilities, including demarcations and
interfaces.
2. Environmental (above and below ground), geophysical, and geotechnical data.
3. Fluid data for transportation.
4. Design flow rates, including peaks and turn down.
5. Pipeline inlet/outlet pressure and temperature conditions.
6. Hydraulic design parameters (e.g. internal pipe roughness; soil thermal conductivity).
7. Potential route options, including restricted or sensitive areas (e.g. “constraints” map).
8. Elevation data.
9. Major crossings and topographical features.
10. National, local, and governing design codes.
11. Expected operating life.
12. Potential third party users and possible future expansion provisions.
13. Potential conflicts with existing facilities/pipelines and new developments.
14. Any known operating or control conditions that could influence the design.
15. Economic evaluation of the design options.
i. Throughout all phases of the project, data and deliverables generated from inception shall
be kept intact, including contractor generated information.
j. Such data e.g. pipe tracking, material certification, and Geographical Information System
shall be transferred electronically to operations as specified and agreed with the Operator.

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6.3. Hydraulic analysis – line sizing

a. Selection of the correct pipe size and grade for hydraulics, pressure containment, and
strength is a key to project success in that technical pipe selection shall also include
economic considerations as part of the technical decision process.
b. Hydraulic analysis shall be conducted for the various pipeline routes and configuration
options to determine pipe sizes and pumping/compression requirements.
c. Standard pipe diameters (including wall thicknesses and driver types) should be used
unless there is a significant financial advantage to do otherwise, as may be the case on very
long pipelines.
d. Any system containing intermediate pumping/compression should be optimized
considering the initial capital investments (CAPEX), the operational cost (OPEX),
including the cost of energy over the life of the pipeline (OPEX), emissions, fuel
availability, operability (e.g. standardisation of the driver type), and any other future
investments associated with either the pipeline or the pumping/compression facilities.

6.4. Pipe wall thickness and material grade selection

a. Selection of pipe wall thickness and material grade shall comply with the applicable
identified codes and standards.
b. An economic evaluation of material type and thickness across the options for the pipeline
system should be undertaken.
c. In addition to satisfying internal pipe conditions, due consideration shall be given to
external factors such as installation techniques, crossings, environmental impacts (e.g.
seismic activity), and third party activities (e.g. urban sprawl, agriculture, malicious acts).
d. The material grade shall be selected to provide metallurgy compatible with the expected
welding procedures and corrosion resistance requirements.
e. Given the above, for a route with extreme variations in elevation, the wall thickness should
not be “over optimised”, particularly if the fluid properties and hence the hydraulics are not
fully understood at this stage (Appraise/Select).

6.5. Preliminary route selection

a. Preliminary pipeline routing options shall take due account of the various technical,
environmental, safety, security, and social factors including anticipated developments.
b. Adequate time should be allowed to select the optimal route, which may not be the shortest
route, and ensure that relevant views are heard, and that permissions, regulatory
requirements, landowner consents, and environmental/safety impacts do not impact the
project schedule.
c. Apart from the need for early consultation with affected/interested parties, routing
decisions shall not be made such that the route becomes fixed without allowing time for
material consultation with those parties, stakeholders, and partners.
d. Preliminary geophysical and geotechnical surveys shall be carried out early in Select.
e. If possible, the pipeline should be routed to avoid geohazards.

6.6. Terrain evaluation and geohazard identification

a. For pipelines in remote or unfamiliar areas, a terrain evaluation shall be carried out to
identify the geohazards and risks (reference GP 43-27 for requirements).
b. At this stage (Appraise/Select) this should be a relatively low cost evaluation involving the
use of satellite imagery, aerial photography, surface mapping, and descriptions of
geological exposures.

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c. The aims of the terrain evaluation should be to:

1. Assist with the selection of a robust route with no geohazard surprises at a later stage.
2. Manage risks associated with typical environments (especially landslides) at the
earliest possible stage.
3. Identify areas that could impose significant additional costs during construction.
4. Minimise the impact of pipeline construction on the physical environment.
5. Prevent the need for expensive remedial measures or restoration works during
operation.
6. Assist in safeguarding the operability of the pipeline.

6.7. Crossings and special areas

a. Major pipeline crossings e.g. rivers, railways, main roads, and areas requiring special
construction techniques shall be identified.
b. Regulatory authorities shall be consulted to establish any particular construction and
operational constraints or any timing restrictions.
c. The selection of any special trenchless construction techniques, which may present
significant technical, cost, and schedule challenges (particularly due to geotechnical
considerations) should be evaluated in detail. Such techniques should be understood in
terms of their true potential cost impact as part of route selection.

6.8. Pipeline right of way and access

a. The requirements for vehicular and equipment access along the pipeline, both during the
construction and operation phases, shall be identified.
b. The ROW, which comprises the pipeline(s) corridor, a vehicular running track, areas for
the segregated storage of spoil (topsoil, sub-soil) material, and construction work areas,
shall be sufficiently wide to ensure safe construction, meeting the ESIA findings (i.e.
without compromising environmental commitments) and satisfying the authorities (i.e.
ROW negotiated).
c. Consideration should also be given to any temporary or permanent access tracks, and
means of pipe supply, particularly adjacent to limited access or “lock out” areas e.g. major
rivers, railways, etc.
d. Construction of and/or access to the ROW may need to be limited due to seasonal factors
such as weather and environmental flora/fauna (e.g. breeding seasons).

6.9. Pipeline stability

a. The pipeline shall be designed to prevent horizontal and vertical movements during
construction and operation, or to provide sufficient flexibility to allow predicted
movements within the strength criteria.
b. The stability analysis shall consider the axial compression forces caused by pressure and
temperature effects of the transported fluid, or forces due to soil instability such as fault
crossings.
c. For a pipeline buried in regions of high water table, or other unstable soil conditions that
may exist along the pipeline’s route, the design shall address the additional requirements to
ensure the pipeline’s stability.
d. Stability enhancement methods may include:
1. Increased pipe wall thickness.

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2. Pipe concrete weight coating.

3. Increased burial.
4. Gravel or rock overburden.
5. Anchoring or set-on type weights.

6.10. Pipeline trenching, burial, and reinstatement

a. Onshore pipelines to be trenched and buried shall be installed at sufficient depth and then
reinstated by the addition of sufficient soil to allow continuation of existing land use
activities, e.g. agriculture.
b. Alternative trenching techniques that might normally be discounted because they are
expensive and time consuming, should be considered if the ground is likely to be very hard
(rock) or unstable (sand, fill, etc.) or if the water table is high.
c. Permit restrictions for the use of explosives, and ground water and hydrotest water
acquisition and disposal may influence the pipeline route selection.
d. The use of borrow pits shall be controlled in accordance with the permitting requirements.
e. The reinstatement of the ROW (including crossings and temporary/permanent access
tracks) shall be undertaken and monitored in accordance with the permitting requirements.

6.11. Pipeline pigging

a. The operational and testing needs for pigging shall be identified.
b. The pipeline system shall be designed to accommodate internal inspection tools.
c. Pig traps and closures shall be designed to ensure safety and integrity in operation.
d. Pig trap design shall incorporate the needs determined by the nature of the fluids and the
pigging regime (e.g. in the case of wax, consideration should be given to the: pig trap
volume, pig handling facilities, flushing systems and wax disposal systems). GP 43-50
provides detailed guidance for pigging and pig trap design.

6.12. Pipeline corrosion design

a. Internal and external corrosion of pipeline systems shall be managed to minimise the risk
of pipeline failure or loss of operability.
b. Design of the pipeline system shall include appropriate internal and external corrosion
protection provision for both the installation and operating phases of the pipeline.
Depending on the operational procedures and perceived risks, additional wall thickness,
internal/external coatings and CP systems shall be considered.
c. Careful consideration shall also be given to the continuity of the external corrosion
protection system over the field joints.

6.13. Preliminary pipeline stress analysis

Analysis shall be performed to ensure pipe stresses and deflections under installation and
operational conditions do not exceed allowable values.

6.14. Pipeline integrity

To ensure safe operation, integrity techniques shall be established and allowed for in the
preliminary design, i.e. leak detection systems, corrosion assessment, inspection access,
communications, and overall controls including intermediate isolation valves.

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7. Define and Execute pipeline project phases

7.1. Detailed engineering phase

a. The SoR shall be updated in Define to ensure Operations and BU requirements accord with
the project definition.
b. Depending on the project programme, in order to protect the planned completion of
Execute, some long lead materials, such as pipe, coating, and large valves may be ordered
before Sanction with provisions in the Define budget. This would be subject to FM
approval.
c. The BP Global Line Pipe Agreement shall be utilised for pipe procurement.
d. The REI shall be used for procurement of rotating equipment if required by GP 43-31.

7.2. Surveys and ESIA

a. Based on the Select survey scope and findings, a detailed geophysical and geotechnical
investigation shall be conducted over the proposed pipeline system corridor.
1. This survey should be undertaken at the beginning of Define to support the design
basis.
2. Such a survey could be pre-funded in late Select depending on the time available in
the project programme.
b. A full ESIA should be conducted during Define to ensure environmental impacts are
accommodated in the design and cost estimate, and vice versa.
c. For the project to move forward into Execute, the ESIA should be completed and approved
at or very shortly after the start of Execute.

7.3. Design finalisation

a. The design undertaken in Select and Define (clause 6) should be taken in Execute to an
“Approved for Construction” status.
b. A comprehensive series of deliverables shall be produced including:
1. Alignment sheets.
2. Working drawings.
3. Data sheets.
4. Equipment/material specifications.
5. Hydraulic design reports.
c. The deliverables should become the basis for procurement, construction, and installation.

7.4. Pipeline installation analysis

a. With the pipeline system defined, precise installation analysis work shall be conducted.
b. Such study should extend over the complete range of construction activities and available
construction equipment to ensure that every aspect of the pipeline system is considered,
including the impact of the ESIA approval conditions and weather.
c. This should result in definition of the type of installation methods best suited to the project
conditions, contractor’s personnel and equipment, and selected route.

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7.5. Pipeline construction and installation

a. Subject to sanction, for a large scale pipeline project, an Engineering, Procurement, and
Construction contractor should be appointed in Select to complete the Define/Execute
phases. Such contractors shall have the expertise to confirm the design, undertake
construction and installation engineering, and finalise costs and plan in Select to support
the Define FM.
b. The contractual arrangement for a pipeline project shall never dilute BP’s involvement and
control.
c. Subcontractors may be sought for example for specialist activities, particularly
geotechnical surveys initially to BP, later for the main contractor(s), including:
1. Trenchless construction techniques (e.g. HDD, tunnelling).
2. Field joint coating.
3. Pre-commissioning.
d. Contracting a pipeline project may possibly be organised such that BP manages the project
in Define, assisted as required by specialist consultants and contractors.
e. In Define, the major procurement and construct phases (for Execute) may be tendered such
that a main contractor(s) takes the project to completion under BP management.
f. Early procurement of long lead items funded within Define, as a BP responsibility, may
become a necessary activity to protect the project programme.

8. Execute success

a. HSSE, particularly safety in Execute, is a major risk area and shall be managed closely,
fully satisfying BP Expectations from Appraise to Operate.
b. In addition to attention to safety, the subject of security shall also receive due
consideration.
c. BP inspection or independent inspection shall be employed and resourced with the highest
calibre personnel consistent with the perceived and evaluated risks.
d. The contractual arrangements for a pipeline project, with strong emphasis on independent
inspection, shall never dilute BP’s involvement to the extent that the pipeline system
integrity can be jeopardised.

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Annex A
(Normative)
List of 43 Series Engineering Technical Practices

By accessing the ETP website the most up to date list of the Series 43 documents is available. In
particular GP 43-20 and GP 43-40 underpin the outline statements provided in this GP. The link is List
of Series 43 ETPs.

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Annex B
(Informative)
Deliverables Checklist

This list of key onshore pipeline project design and installation activities is not fully encompassing. It
only guides the reader. In Appraise and Select these technical activities are taken usually to a
preliminary stage – in Define and Execute the activities become final to achieve project completion.

• Pipeline hydraulic analysis (steady, transient and system availability)

• Pipe(s) diameter, thickness, grade selection, and design factor
• System optimisation study
• Geophysical and geotechnical surveys
• Construction and operation pipeline stress analysis, including environmental affects
• Route alignment sheets (typically scale 1:2 500), including landowner/occupier details
• O&M
• Process drawings (P&IDs, PFDs) and cable diagrams (instrument, electrical, comms.)
• Generic and major crossing details (river, culvert, stream, railway, road, track, seismic)
• Pipeline trenching and reinstatement requirements
• Stability analysis, including anchor blocks and weight coatings for wet areas
• Third party pipeline and cable crossings, both above and below ground
• Above ground facilities – valve sites, pigging stations, pumping and compressor stations
• Pipeline appurtenances and component design (flanges/fittings/valves/pig traps/etc.)
• Pipe material, coatings, and corrosion protection provisions
• Inspection techniques and appurtenances
• Pipeline integrity – leak detection design
• Pigging and pig trap requirements in construction and operation
• Pipeline welding and inspection procedures
• Pipeline field coating and inspection procedures
• Pipeline field joint and temporary CP design
• Control and communication systems
• Testing, pre-commissioning and commissioning procedures
• Line fill and Start-up procedures
• Operation, maintenance and repair procedures
• Oil Spill Response Plan
• Quantified Risk Assessment (QRA)
• Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA)
• ESIA
• PHSERs
• gHSEr compliance

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• Hazard/Risk/Opportunity identification and management

• Cost estimate
• Schedule
• Risk analysis

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Bibliography

BP
[1] GP 43-03 Guidance on Practice for Pipeline Project Execution.

[2] GP 43-04 Guidance on Practice for Offshore Pipeline Project Execution.

[3] GP 43-28 Guidance on Practice for Pipeline Crossings.

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