Sunday, April 27, 2014

Simplifying Pipeline Right Of Way

By Essie Osborn


A pipeline network buried beneath the ground is expansive and used to connect consumers to compressor stations, storage tanks and distribution points. This increases the chances of interacting with the pipeline right of way considering the miles covered by the network. The measurements for the strip of land are 60 by 120 feet or 18 by 36 meters. The number of pipes buried beneath the ground varies from one circumstance to the other. The common name used in this case is ROW.

ROW describes the allowance provided for testing, inspection, maintenance and emergency attention. Within the area, certain activities are allowed while others are prohibited. Such restrictions are aimed at protecting the integrity of pipeline networks and protecting the public as well. The activities prohibited are identified as causes for potential danger. They would lead to property damage or bodily harm.

The placing of beacons or distinct markers in strategic places is aimed at alerting anyone around the area. These markers are easy to spot at railway crossing and road intersections. Their placement in intervals along the network varies on circumstances. The pipe is usually buried at different depths beneath the surface. The beacons will caution users in that area but not indicate the exact location.

The ecosystem and activity around the area determine the details of each ROW. There are clear differences on sub-arctic tundra, cultivated lands and urban areas. Local authorities have maps indicating the locations of ROW. This means that each area has a different set.

There are determinants of who accesses the ROW and how is it acquired. The activities must be defined so that the owner takes responsibility. Land owners, governments and utility providers can acquire ROW. They are accessible through easement, permits and licenses. The other option is through a purchase, though it is a rare choice. The negotiations must be made with the original land owner.

Common damages on pipelines are occasioned by third party activities. There are regulations by federal, state and provincial authorities on activities and excavations around ROW areas. A permit must be obtained besides having the physical presence of an inspector as work progresses. The aim is to protect the property and persons within the area. Such measures also protect their pipeline from constant damage. All these activities should be carried out before work begins.

Strict surveillance by regulating authorities is required which means that any activity must be sanctioned. Some of them include improvements or fixing of fences, ditches and existing drainage system, altering soil grade or deep tilling as well are erection of berms. There must be a supervisor when driveways are being constructed, parking, railways, paving, underground and overhead utility networks. Heavy non-agricultural equipment should not be brought to site without the approval of regulating authority.

Consultants in ROW assist you to comply with the law. They ensure that you obtain a permit so that you can excavate or construct on site, locate markings and pipelines as well as guide you on how to operate on site. They ensure that you have a representative of the local office before any work commences. This is the only way to ensure that you do not get into conflicts with the law.




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