Skip to content
Institute For Oil & Gas Training
OGI-1266 New

API Standard 1163 In-line Inspection Systems Qualification Training Course

Duration
5 days
CPD hours
15
Language
English
Next date
26 Oct 2026
View dates & register Download brochure

We use your details only to answer this enquiry. See our privacy policy.

Overview

The API Standard 1163 In-line Inspection Systems Qualification Training Course from Institute For Oil & Gas Training develops the technical and operational capabilities required to assess, qualify, and apply in-line inspection systems for oil and gas pipeline integrity management. The course focuses on API Standard 1163 In-line Inspection Systems Qualification, providing pipeline professionals with a structured understanding of inspection system performance, qualification evidence, tool capabilities, data quality, and the assessment of inspection results.

Pipeline operators depend on reliable inspection information to evaluate asset condition, identify potential threats, plan maintenance, and support decisions about continued pipeline operation. In-line inspection provides essential information about internal and external corrosion, metal loss, deformation, and other pipeline conditions, depending on the technology deployed. The reliability of these findings depends on the suitability of the inspection tool, the quality of the inspection process, the operating conditions, and the ability to interpret the resulting data within the limitations of the system.

The Institute For Oil & Gas Training programme addresses the skills gap between understanding pipeline inspection technology and evaluating whether an ILI system is suitable for a specific pipeline application. It examines how inspection system qualification supports confidence in reported features, measurement performance, defect identification, and the use of inspection results in integrity management decisions. Participants develop a systematic approach to reviewing technical documentation, assessing qualification evidence, understanding performance specifications, and identifying limitations that affect inspection reliability.

API 1163 provides a recognised framework for qualifying in-line inspection systems and evaluating their performance in relation to defined inspection objectives. Understanding this standard helps operators, integrity engineers, inspection contractors, and technical managers establish clearer expectations for ILI service providers. It also supports more informed decisions when selecting pipeline inspection tools, reviewing inspection proposals, defining acceptance criteria, and evaluating the quality of delivered inspection data.

The course considers the relationship between inspection technology and the operating characteristics of the pipeline. Factors such as pipe diameter, wall thickness, product characteristics, flow conditions, access arrangements, pipeline geometry, and the nature of anticipated defects influence tool selection and inspection planning. Participants explore how these factors affect the suitability of magnetic flux leakage, ultrasonic, geometry, and other relevant inspection technologies. The emphasis remains on selecting methods that address the identified threats rather than treating all ILI systems as interchangeable.

Inspection system qualification also involves more than confirming that a tool has completed a successful pipeline run. Organisations need to understand the evidence supporting a tool's performance, the conditions under which its stated capabilities apply, the quality of the collected data, and the limitations that influence reported results. The course explains how these elements contribute to defensible integrity assessments and better coordination between pipeline operators and inspection service providers.

Through practical scenarios and industry-focused exercises, Institute For Oil & Gas Training prepares participants to assess ILI system suitability, review qualification documentation, recognise data limitations, and connect inspection findings with pipeline integrity priorities. The programme supports organisations seeking greater consistency in inspection procurement, technical assurance, defect assessment, and the planning of follow-up inspections or repairs.

The training is particularly relevant to oil and gas companies managing transmission pipelines, gathering systems, production pipelines, and other assets where internal inspection provides valuable condition information. It also supports engineering contractors and specialist inspection companies responsible for proposing, delivering, reviewing, or assuring inspection services.

By integrating API 1163 principles with practical pipeline integrity considerations, the course strengthens the technical basis for inspection decisions. Participants gain a clearer understanding of how inspection system qualification contributes to asset reliability, risk-based maintenance planning, and the effective use of inspection data throughout the pipeline lifecycle.

Objectives

  • Explain the purpose, scope, and principal concepts of API 1163 in the qualification of in-line inspection systems.

  • Distinguish inspection system qualification from tool selection, inspection execution, data analysis, and subsequent pipeline integrity assessment.

  • Identify the pipeline characteristics and threat mechanisms that influence inspection technology selection.

  • Compare the capabilities and application considerations of relevant magnetic flux leakage, ultrasonic, geometry, and other ILI technologies.

  • Define inspection objectives and translate pipeline integrity requirements into appropriate technical specifications.

  • Evaluate qualification documentation, performance statements, and supporting evidence supplied by inspection service providers.

  • Interpret detection capability, sizing performance, measurement uncertainty, and other factors affecting confidence in inspection results.

  • Recognise limitations associated with operating conditions, pipeline configuration, data quality, and inspection technology.

  • Assess whether an ILI system's demonstrated capabilities align with the intended inspection application.

  • Identify gaps in qualification evidence and establish appropriate technical clarification requirements.

  • Apply structured review principles when evaluating inspection reports and reported pipeline features.

  • Improve coordination between pipeline operators, inspection contractors, integrity engineers, and technical assurance teams.

  • Use inspection findings more effectively when prioritising further assessment, monitoring, maintenance, and repair activities.

  • Strengthen inspection procurement and quality assurance processes through consistent qualification and acceptance practices.

  • Incorporate the principles of inspection system qualification into organisational pipeline integrity procedures.

Training methodology

Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers this course through an applied, industry-oriented methodology that connects the principles of API 1163 with practical inspection planning and pipeline integrity management. The delivery approach combines technical presentations, guided discussions, inspection case studies, document reviews, group exercises, and scenario-based assessments. Each activity reinforces the relationship between inspection system capability, qualification evidence, data reliability, and operational decision-making.

Technical Presentations and Guided Discussions

Technical sessions introduce the principles of in-line inspection, the purpose of API 1163, and the processes used to evaluate inspection system performance. Participants examine the distinction between an inspection tool's stated capabilities and its demonstrated performance under defined conditions. Discussions address the responsibilities of pipeline operators, inspection service providers, engineering teams, and technical assurance personnel during the qualification process.

Inspection Case Studies

Case studies explore typical pipeline inspection challenges, including corrosion assessment, metal loss detection, deformation measurement, and the interpretation of reported anomalies. Participants examine how tool selection, inspection conditions, and data quality affect the usefulness of inspection findings. The exercises highlight the importance of understanding uncertainty and limitations before translating inspection results into maintenance or repair decisions.

Qualification Documentation Reviews

Participants work through representative inspection specifications, qualification records, performance statements, and technical submissions. They identify the information needed to establish whether an ILI system addresses the intended inspection objectives. The process develops a structured approach to reviewing supplier claims, assessing evidence quality, and identifying gaps that require clarification before an inspection campaign proceeds.

Group Exercises and Technical Scenarios

Group exercises place participants in realistic decision-making situations involving pipeline characteristics, anticipated threats, proposed inspection tools, and inspection objectives. Teams compare the suitability of different approaches, define information requirements, and discuss the implications of selecting a tool whose capabilities do not fully address the intended application.

These exercises also examine the coordination required between pipeline operations, integrity engineering, inspection contractors, and data analysis teams. Participants consider how clear technical requirements and agreed acceptance criteria improve communication throughout an inspection project.

Inspection Data Interpretation Workshops

Guided workshops examine the relationship between reported features, measurement performance, sizing uncertainty, detection capability, and the evidence supporting inspection conclusions. Participants explore how data limitations influence confidence in defect characterisation and why inspection results require interpretation within the context of the pipeline and the selected technology.

Application to Workplace Responsibilities

The final learning activities focus on transferring course principles into organisational procedures. Participants consider improvements to inspection specifications, contractor evaluation, qualification reviews, inspection data acceptance, and integrity assessment workflows. This approach helps attendees apply the course content to existing pipeline management responsibilities without treating qualification as a purely documentary exercise.

The methodology emphasises practical judgement, technical consistency, and evidence-based decision-making. It enables professionals with different levels of pipeline inspection experience to develop a common understanding of inspection system qualification and its contribution to pipeline integrity.

Organisational impact

Implementing the principles covered by Institute For Oil & Gas Training helps organisations improve the technical consistency and commercial value of pipeline inspection programmes. Effective inspection system qualification provides a more structured basis for evaluating contractor capabilities, accepting inspection deliverables, and using condition data to support asset management decisions.

Improved Inspection Reliability

A documented qualification process helps organisations assess whether selected ILI systems are appropriate for the inspection objectives. Reviewing demonstrated performance, measurement limitations, and supporting evidence improves the basis for accepting inspection services and evaluating reported features. This reduces reliance on unsupported assumptions about tool capabilities and strengthens the technical justification for integrity decisions.

More Effective Pipeline Integrity Management

Reliable inspection information supports the identification and assessment of pipeline threats. By improving their understanding of inspection performance, personnel can make better-informed decisions about further investigations, defect assessments, monitoring requirements, and maintenance priorities. Inspection findings become more useful when evaluated alongside pipeline operating history, design information, previous inspections, and other relevant integrity data.

Better Inspection Procurement and Contractor Assurance

Consistent qualification criteria help procurement and engineering teams compare technical proposals against defined inspection requirements. Organisations gain a clearer basis for evaluating inspection service providers, identifying gaps in submissions, clarifying performance commitments, and establishing acceptance requirements. These practices improve transparency during tender evaluation and strengthen technical accountability throughout the inspection contract.

Stronger Safety and Risk Management

Inspection results contribute to the assessment of threats that affect pipeline integrity and operational safety. Understanding detection limits and measurement uncertainty helps personnel recognise where additional investigation is necessary. This supports more defensible decisions about defect evaluation, operational restrictions, repair priorities, and further inspection, based on the applicable engineering procedures and assessment criteria.

Improved Compliance and Technical Governance

A structured approach to API 1163 supports traceability between inspection objectives, qualification evidence, technical requirements, and final deliverables. Organisations can strengthen document control, technical reviews, contractor oversight, and internal assurance processes. The course supports the application of relevant standards without implying that training alone establishes regulatory compliance or guarantees an inspection outcome.

More Efficient Use of Maintenance Resources

Inspection findings are most valuable when they guide proportionate maintenance and assessment activities. Improved understanding of ILI capabilities helps teams distinguish between findings that require immediate technical attention and those requiring additional validation or analysis. Better-informed prioritisation supports maintenance planning, reduces avoidable reassessment, and improves the allocation of engineering resources.

Improved Communication Across Technical Teams

The course establishes a shared understanding of qualification requirements among integrity engineers, pipeline operators, inspection contractors, and data analysts. Clearer technical terminology and acceptance expectations help reduce misunderstandings during inspection planning, execution, reporting, and subsequent assessment. This supports more coordinated project delivery and more consistent technical decisions.

Greater Value from Inspection Data

Inspection programmes involve significant planning, contractor coordination, data review, and engineering effort. Organisations improve the value of this investment when they understand how the inspection system's demonstrated capabilities relate to the quality and usefulness of its results. The training strengthens the processes used to evaluate inspection deliverables and incorporate findings into ongoing pipeline integrity management.

Personal impact

The API Standard 1163 In-line Inspection Systems Qualification Training Course strengthens the practical capabilities of professionals responsible for pipeline inspection, integrity engineering, and technical assurance. Participants develop a more structured approach to evaluating inspection technology, interpreting qualification evidence, and understanding the significance of inspection limitations.

Stronger Technical Understanding

Attendees develop a clearer understanding of the principles governing ILI system qualification and performance assessment. They learn how inspection objectives, pipeline characteristics, tool technology, and measurement requirements influence the suitability of an inspection system. This knowledge supports more confident participation in technical reviews and inspection planning discussions.

Improved Evaluation and Decision-Making

Participants learn to review technical submissions, examine performance claims, identify missing evidence, and formulate relevant questions for inspection service providers. These capabilities help them distinguish between documented performance and unsupported assumptions, strengthening their contribution to inspection acceptance and integrity decisions.

Enhanced Inspection Planning Skills

Attendees gain a more systematic approach to defining inspection requirements and matching them with suitable pipeline inspection tools. They develop an appreciation of the factors affecting tool performance, including pipeline geometry, operating conditions, anticipated defect characteristics, and data quality requirements.

Better Interpretation of Inspection Results

The programme improves participants' understanding of reported anomalies, detection limitations, sizing uncertainty, and the significance of qualification evidence. This helps them communicate inspection findings more accurately and recognise when specialist assessment or further investigation is required.

Increased Professional Effectiveness

Professionals who understand inspection system qualification are better equipped to coordinate technical reviews, challenge incomplete submissions, document decisions, and communicate requirements to contractors. These skills strengthen their contribution to multidisciplinary pipeline integrity teams and support more consistent execution of assigned responsibilities.

Broader Career Development

The course supports the continued professional development of pipeline integrity engineers, inspection specialists, project engineers, technical authorities, and quality assurance personnel. Its practical focus provides relevant knowledge for roles involving inspection planning, contractor management, pipeline condition assessment, and integrity programme governance. It complements existing engineering and operational experience rather than replacing the qualifications or authorisations required for specific professional duties.

Who should attend

- Pipeline Integrity Engineers: To strengthen their ability to assess inspection system suitability and incorporate reliable ILI findings into integrity management plans.

- Pipeline Inspection Engineers: To develop a structured understanding of qualification evidence, tool performance, inspection limitations, and technical acceptance requirements.

- In-Line Inspection Specialists: To improve their understanding of inspection technology capabilities and the evidence required to demonstrate system performance.

- Pipeline Operations Managers: To understand how inspection system selection and qualification affect operational decisions, inspection planning, and asset reliability.

- Corrosion Engineers: To evaluate the relevance of ILI capabilities for corrosion threats, metal loss assessment, and the prioritisation of further investigation.

- Asset Integrity Managers: To strengthen technical governance, contractor oversight, and the integration of inspection findings into asset integrity strategies.

- Inspection Project Managers: To improve the definition of inspection deliverables, technical requirements, qualification milestones, and acceptance criteria.

- Pipeline Maintenance Engineers: To understand how inspection performance and reported anomalies influence maintenance planning and repair prioritisation.

- Quality Assurance and Quality Control Professionals: To develop a more consistent approach to reviewing qualification documentation, inspection records, and technical deliverables.

- Technical Authorities and Engineering Leads: To strengthen their ability to challenge inspection proposals, assess supporting evidence, and oversee technical decisions.

- Inspection Contractor Personnel: To understand operator expectations for inspection system qualification, performance evidence, and reporting quality.

- Pipeline Data Analysts: To improve their understanding of the relationship between inspection technology, qualification limitations, and the interpretation of reported features.

- Engineering Consultants: To strengthen their capability to support inspection specification development, qualification reviews, and pipeline integrity assessments.

- Procurement and Contract Specialists: To understand the technical factors that influence ILI service specifications, contractor evaluation, and inspection deliverable acceptance.

- Experienced Pipeline Technicians and Supervisors: To develop a broader understanding of inspection system capabilities and the technical considerations surrounding inspection operations.

The course is suitable for professionals with responsibilities across pipeline operations, integrity management, inspection delivery, engineering assurance, and maintenance. Familiarity with pipeline systems or inspection activities provides a useful foundation for applying the technical concepts covered.

Course outline

This module establishes the technical foundation for understanding inspection system qualification and its role in pipeline integrity management. Participants examine how inspection objectives, defined performance requirements, qualification evidence, and system limitations contribute to confidence in inspection results.

The module also explores the responsibilities of pipeline operators and inspection service providers in establishing clear technical expectations. Participants learn to distinguish the selection of an inspection tool from the qualification of its performance for a particular application.

  1. API Standard 1163

    • Establishes a recognised framework for qualifying in-line inspection systems used to assess pipeline conditions.

    • Addresses the evaluation of inspection system performance against defined inspection objectives and requirements.

    • Supports the consideration of detection capability, measurement performance, and the limitations associated with inspection results.

    • Provides a basis for documenting qualification evidence and assessing whether an ILI system is suitable for its intended application.

    • Helps pipeline operators establish a more consistent approach to reviewing inspection system capabilities and supporting technical information.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the purpose and principal concepts of API 1163.

    • Describe the relationship between qualification, inspection execution, and integrity assessment.

    • Identify the responsibilities of operators and inspection service providers during qualification.

    • Establish the connection between inspection objectives and required system capabilities.

    • Recognise the importance of documented evidence in supporting technical acceptance.

    • Identify common gaps in inspection specifications and qualification submissions.

This module examines how pipeline design, operating conditions, and anticipated degradation mechanisms influence inspection planning. Participants consider the relationship between pipeline characteristics and the information required to assess corrosion, metal loss, deformation, and other relevant integrity threats.

The module explores the importance of selecting inspection technologies that address the specific conditions of the pipeline. Participants evaluate how diameter changes, wall thickness, pipeline geometry, product characteristics, and operating conditions influence tool suitability and inspection requirements.

  1. ASME B31.8S

    • Provides a framework for managing the integrity of gas pipeline systems through structured assessment and threat management.

    • Addresses the identification and evaluation of threats that affect pipeline integrity.

    • Supports the use of appropriate assessment methods and integrity management activities based on pipeline conditions.

    • Establishes a context for relating inspection information to pipeline threat identification and prioritisation.

    • Helps participants understand how inspection planning contributes to a wider integrity management process for gas transmission and distribution pipelines.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Identify pipeline characteristics that influence ILI system selection.

    • Relate anticipated threats to appropriate inspection objectives.

    • Compare the application considerations of magnetic flux leakage, ultrasonic, and geometry inspection technologies.

    • Recognise operating conditions that affect inspection tool performance.

    • Identify information required before defining inspection specifications.

    • Explain how inspection results support threat assessment and integrity planning.

    • Distinguish between general tool capability and suitability for a specific pipeline.

This module focuses on the assessment of inspection performance and the reliability of the information produced by ILI systems. Participants examine the significance of detection capability, sizing performance, measurement uncertainty, repeatability, and data quality when evaluating reported pipeline features.

The module also considers how qualification evidence supports the interpretation of inspection results. Participants review the implications of incomplete data, inconsistent measurements, and limitations in the evidence supporting an inspection system's stated capabilities.

  1. API Standard 1160

    • Provides a framework for managing the integrity of hazardous liquid pipeline systems.

    • Addresses the identification, assessment, and management of pipeline threats throughout the integrity management process.

    • Supports the use of inspection and assessment information to inform decisions about pipeline condition.

    • Helps establish the operational context in which inspection findings contribute to risk evaluation and integrity priorities.

    • Reinforces the importance of considering inspection information alongside other relevant pipeline data and engineering assessments.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the difference between detection capability and sizing performance.

    • Interpret the significance of measurement uncertainty when evaluating inspection results.

    • Identify factors affecting inspection data quality and confidence in reported features.

    • Assess whether available qualification evidence supports stated performance claims.

    • Recognise the limitations of inspection results when data quality is insufficient.

    • Identify circumstances that require further validation or engineering assessment.

    • Explain how inspection information contributes to the evaluation of pipeline integrity threats.

    • Apply a structured approach to reviewing inspection performance documentation.

This module examines the documentation and quality assurance processes that support inspection system qualification. Participants review the importance of traceable requirements, consistent technical records, documented acceptance criteria, and clear communication between operators and inspection contractors.

The module also addresses the evaluation of technical submissions and the identification of missing or conflicting information. Participants consider how a structured review process improves transparency, strengthens contractor assurance, and provides a clearer basis for accepting inspection deliverables.

  1. ISO IEC 17020

    • Establishes general criteria for the competence and impartiality of bodies performing inspection activities.

    • Addresses the organisational and operational arrangements supporting consistent inspection work.

    • Provides a recognised reference for understanding inspection governance and quality assurance principles.

    • Supports consideration of documented procedures, technical competence, and the reliability of inspection processes.

    • Complements the technical requirements of pipeline inspection by providing a broader context for inspection quality and organisational assurance.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Review inspection qualification records against defined technical requirements.

    • Identify gaps in contractor submissions and supporting evidence.

    • Evaluate the clarity and traceability of inspection specifications.

    • Establish appropriate questions for technical clarification and review.

    • Recognise the role of quality assurance in inspection project delivery.

    • Improve the documentation of technical decisions and inspection acceptance.

    • Explain the importance of competence, impartiality, and consistent inspection procedures.

    • Apply a structured approach to contractor assurance and deliverable review.

This module brings together the principles of inspection qualification, technology selection, performance evaluation, and quality assurance. Participants examine how qualification findings influence inspection acceptance and how inspection results support decisions about further assessment, monitoring, maintenance, and repair.

The module uses practical scenarios to explore inspection planning and the application of qualification evidence to workplace decisions. Participants consider how technical findings should be documented, communicated, and integrated into the wider pipeline integrity management process.

  1. ASME B31.4

    • Establishes requirements for pipeline transportation systems for liquids and slurries within its scope.

    • Provides an engineering framework relevant to the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of applicable pipeline systems.

    • Supports consideration of pipeline integrity within the wider context of engineering requirements and operational responsibilities.

    • Helps participants understand the importance of relating inspection findings to applicable pipeline design and operating requirements.

    • Provides a relevant reference for liquid pipeline applications where inspection results inform integrity evaluation and maintenance decisions.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Apply qualification principles when reviewing an inspection proposal.

    • Assess whether inspection system capabilities align with the defined pipeline requirements.

    • Relate inspection findings to further assessment, maintenance, and repair priorities.

    • Identify situations requiring additional technical investigation.

    • Explain how inspection limitations influence confidence in integrity decisions.

    • Develop a structured approach to documenting inspection acceptance and technical findings.

    • Improve communication between inspection contractors, integrity engineers, and operations teams.

    • Integrate inspection system qualification principles into workplace integrity management procedures.

Certificate

Attendees who successfully complete the API Standard 1163 In-line Inspection Systems Qualification Training Course receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.

The certificate recognises completion of the training programme and participation in its professional learning activities. Attendees must meet the institute's attendance requirement and complete the required course activities to qualify for the certificate.

The Certificate of Completion confirms participation in the training. It does not constitute an API-issued certification, a formal qualification as an authorised inspector, or independent accreditation of an individual's competence to perform regulated activities.

Course dates

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,700

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,700

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,700

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,700

Fees include tuition, course materials and refreshments. Need different dates or a different city? Ask about your preferred date.

Frequently asked questions

What is the API Standard 1163 In-line Inspection Systems Qualification Training Course?

The course explains how in-line inspection systems are qualified and evaluated for pipeline integrity applications. It covers inspection system performance, qualification evidence, inspection technology selection, data quality, measurement uncertainty, and the assessment of reported findings. Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers the programme for professionals involved in pipeline inspection, integrity management, engineering assurance, and inspection service delivery.

Who should attend this API 1163 training course?

The course is designed for pipeline integrity engineers, inspection engineers, corrosion specialists, asset integrity managers, operations personnel, inspection project managers, technical authorities, quality assurance professionals, and inspection contractor personnel. Procurement specialists and engineering consultants involved in defining or evaluating ILI service requirements also benefit from understanding inspection system qualification.

What topics are covered in the training programme?

The five-module programme covers qualification principles, pipeline characteristics and threat assessment, inspection performance evaluation, data quality, technical documentation, quality assurance, and integrity decision-making. Participants also examine relevant standards, including API 1163, ASME B31.8S, API 1160, ISO IEC 17020, and ASME B31.4, in relation to their respective applications.

How does API 1163 training benefit pipeline operators?

The training helps pipeline operators establish clearer inspection requirements, evaluate the suitability of ILI systems, review qualification evidence, and understand limitations in inspection results. These capabilities support more consistent contractor assurance, better-informed integrity assessments, and improved prioritisation of further investigation and maintenance activities.

Will attendees receive a certificate after completing the course?

Yes. Attendees who complete the programme and meet the attendance requirement receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training. The certificate recognises completion of the training and does not represent an API-issued certification or an independent professional inspection licence.

Next: 26 Oct 2026

4 dates available

Register Now

Related training courses

Get the training calendar in your inbox

New courses, dates and industry insight. No more than twice a month.