API Releases New Pipeline Safety Standard for Managing Geohazards

WASHINGTON, August 27, 2024 – The American Petroleum Institute (API) today released the first edition of API Recommended Practice 1187 (API RP 1187), Pipeline Integrity Management of Landslide Hazards, which provides a comprehensive framework to address the safety and environmental integrity of transmission pipelines, including guidance on how to manage the risks associated with geohazards. 

"API RP 1187 sets a new benchmark for landslide hazard management in the pipeline industry, upholding the highest standards of safe and sustainable operations," API Senior Vice President for Global Industry Services Anchal Liddar said. “Ground movement has become an increasing threat for pipeline integrity, and it is essential that operators proactively protect their pipelines. This standard represents a significant step forward in addressing the shared goals of the industry, regulators and the public in mitigating geohazard risks effectively." 

Key Features and Enhancements 

API RP 1187 addresses the unique challenges of landslide hazards and their impact on transmission pipelines by establishing robust management practices. It provides comprehensive guidance for all aspects of landslide hazard management, including threat management, decision making and change process management, along with recommendations associated with screening techniques, monitoring areas of concern and mitigation activities.  

The release of API RP 1187 reflects API’s commitment to protecting workers, communities, and the environment while advancing the integrity and reliability of critical pipeline infrastructure. 

API represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry, which supports nearly 11 million U.S. jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of millions of Americans. Our approximately 600 members produce, process and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy, and participate in API Energy Excellence®, which is accelerating environmental and safety progress by fostering new technologies and transparent reporting. API was formed in 1919 as a standards-setting organization and has developed more than 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency and sustainability.

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