Isolate pipelines

Control Measure Knowledge

Isolating the pipeline is an action that will need to be carried out by, or under the close supervision of, pipeline specialists with a full understanding of the consequences of those actions. For example:

  • It may be better to keep pipelines flowing to prevent their contents overheating
  • Shutting down the supply in pipelines could have a major effect on processes and equipment, both downstream and upstream of the incident
  • It may be better not to extinguish fires because an unignited gas or vapour cloud may be a greater hazard
  • Depressurisation of pipelines can take some considerable time
  • The edges of a vapour cloud are more prone to ignition because of the gas and air mix

Refer to the control measure of Isolate utility or fuel supply within the national grid.

Strategic Actions

Tactical Actions