A safe pipeline mast have a good monitoring system that ensures leak detection. Theoretically, a leak in a pipeline can be detected in three different ways:

• by monitoring hydrodynamic fluid parameters (pressure, flow, density, viscosity, temperature).
• by monitoring pipe state.
• by monitoring the surrounding environment.

Present leak detection methods are based only on fluid proprieties or pipe state monitoring. Various leak detection techniques are summarised HERE.

A Perfect System

As shown in this Table, a perfect fast monitoring system for leak detection has not yet been designed, but the ideal system would:

• Be automated (no manual control)
• Be continuous (24- hour emergency service)
• Detect and locate small leaks (a small undetected leak can turn into an environmental disaster)
• Be applicable to all old long buried pipelines (the old ones have more corrosion problems)
• Be affordable
• Be provided with a rapid response system (almost real-time detection, means that immediate action can be taken to minimise the effect of the leak)
• Be low-powered (it is not simple to supply power along a pipeline)

Emerging Technologies

Leak detection is possible by detection hydrocarbons or tracers in the soil, in the groundwater or in the vadose zone. This type of leak detection is mainly used for underground storage tanks or small pipe systems or landfill liners.

Why not?

Hydrocarbon detection is more expensive, less automated than fluid proprieties control systems, but can detect small leaks.Is it possible to extend leak detection systems based on hydrocarbon detection in the surrounding environment to a 10 or more mile length pipeline?Or is it better to monitor hydrodynamic fluid parameters?

How to Recognize a Spill

Despite the industry's best efforts to ensure safety, pipeline spills can occur. The best way to detect a pipeline spill is by using your senses of sight, sound, and smell. Here are details on these three detection techniques:

Sight: Spot of dead or discolored vegetation near the pipeline among otherwise green vegetation. Accumulation of liquid on ground near pipeline. Dense white cloud or fog (vapor cloud) over the spill location.

Sound: Hissing or roaring sound.

Smell: Unusual odor or a strong petroleum scent.

What to Do if a Spill Occurs
Your primary concern should be for your personal safety and the safety of those around you.

• Turn off running machinery.
  
  
• Immediately abandon equipment.
  
  
• Avoid creating sparks - do not light a match, start an engine, use a telephone (including cell phones) or switch on/off an electric light if near spill area.
  
  
• Leave the area immediately on foot.
  
  
• Once in a safe area, phone your local fire and police department (911).
  
  
• If there is a pipeline marker nearby, call the pipeline company at the number shown. Pipeline emergency response teams are available 24-hours a day. Give your name, phone number, and a description of the spill and its location.
  
  
• Warn others to stay away from the area.
  
  
• Do not come into contact with escaping liquids or vapors.
  
  
• If when driving an automobile you come upon a spill or vapor cloud, do not drive into that area.

Source: LandTech Enterprises SA., © 1998-2001