Pipeline Integrity Management (API 1160/ASME B31.8) Training Course
- Duration
- 5 days
- CPD hours
- 15
- Language
- English
- Next date
- 19 Oct 2026
Overview
Pipeline Integrity Management API 1160 and ASME B31.8 Training Course equips oil and gas professionals with the practical capabilities required to assess pipeline condition, manage integrity threats, and maintain reliable pipeline operations. The Pipeline Integrity Management API 1160 and ASME B31.8 Training Course from Institute For Oil & Gas Training focuses on the engineering principles, risk-based decision-making processes, inspection methods, and integrity management practices that support safe and dependable pipeline infrastructure across the oil and gas sector.
Pipelines are critical assets for transporting crude oil, natural gas, refined petroleum products, and other hydrocarbons across production facilities, processing plants, storage terminals, and distribution networks. Their operational reliability directly affects production continuity, asset utilisation, environmental protection, and business performance. Corrosion, mechanical damage, material degradation, ground movement, operational failures, and third-party interference create threats that require systematic identification, assessment, and control. Without a structured approach, these threats increase the likelihood of leaks, unplanned shutdowns, costly repairs, environmental incidents, and disruption to customers.
Effective pipeline integrity management establishes a consistent process for understanding asset condition, prioritising risks, selecting appropriate inspection techniques, and implementing preventive and corrective measures. API 1160 provides guidance for managing the integrity of hazardous liquid pipelines, while ASME B31.8 addresses gas transmission and distribution piping systems. Understanding the respective scope of these recognised standards enables professionals to select appropriate integrity practices for their pipeline systems and operational responsibilities.
The course addresses the skills gap between routine pipeline inspection activities and a comprehensive, risk-informed integrity management programme. Participants develop an understanding of how inspection findings, engineering assessments, operational data, and maintenance records contribute to defensible integrity decisions. The programme also examines how organisations establish integrity baselines, identify threats, evaluate failure likelihood and consequences, and determine appropriate mitigation strategies.
Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers this course for professionals responsible for pipeline engineering, inspection, maintenance, operations, risk management, and asset integrity. The programme connects recognised industry standards with operational decision-making, enabling participants to understand the relationship between technical integrity requirements and day-to-day pipeline performance.
Particular attention is given to pipeline risk assessment, threat identification, inspection planning, defect evaluation, integrity data management, and the development of pipeline integrity programmes. Participants examine how to translate technical findings into prioritised work plans, allocate inspection resources according to risk, and establish performance indicators that support continuous improvement.
The course also explores the importance of documented procedures, competent personnel, reliable inspection data, effective change management, and coordination between engineering and operational teams. These elements help organisations move from reactive maintenance towards a structured approach that anticipates deterioration, addresses emerging threats, and supports consistent asset performance.
By completing the Pipeline Integrity Management API 1160 and ASME B31.8 Training Course, participants gain a practical framework for contributing to pipeline integrity decisions throughout the asset lifecycle. The programme supports organisations seeking to strengthen inspection effectiveness, improve maintenance prioritisation, manage pipeline risks, and protect the long-term value of their infrastructure.
Objectives
Explain the principles, objectives, and lifecycle requirements of effective pipeline integrity management.
Distinguish the respective scopes and applications of API 1160 and ASME B31.8.
Identify common pipeline threats, including internal corrosion, external corrosion, mechanical damage, cracking, ground movement, and third-party interference.
Apply structured methods for pipeline risk assessment and threat prioritisation.
Evaluate the relationship between failure likelihood, potential consequences, and integrity management priorities.
Select appropriate inspection and assessment techniques based on pipeline characteristics, threat mechanisms, and available information.
Interpret pipeline inspection findings and understand the engineering considerations involved in evaluating reported defects.
Develop risk-informed inspection plans and understand the principles governing reassessment intervals.
Evaluate mitigation strategies, including corrosion control, operational monitoring, repair, and preventive maintenance.
Improve the use of inspection records, asset information, and historical operating data in integrity decisions.
Understand the importance of documentation, management of change, and coordination between pipeline engineering and operations teams.
Establish relevant performance indicators for monitoring pipeline integrity programme effectiveness.
Develop practical recommendations for strengthening pipeline integrity programmes within their organisations.
Training methodology
Institute For Oil & Gas Training uses an industry-focused delivery approach that connects pipeline integrity principles with the technical and operational decisions encountered across oil and gas facilities. The methodology combines structured presentations, practical case studies, guided exercises, engineering scenarios, and group discussions to develop knowledge that participants can apply within their own organisations.
Instructor-Led Technical Sessions
Technical sessions introduce the core principles of pipeline integrity management, including recognised standards, integrity assessment processes, pipeline deterioration mechanisms, and risk-based inspection planning. Participants examine the purpose and application of API 1160 and ASME B31.8, with emphasis on understanding their respective scopes and relevance to pipeline operations.
Pipeline Integrity Case Studies
Case studies examine representative pipeline integrity challenges, including internal corrosion, external corrosion, coating deterioration, mechanical damage, and changing operating conditions. Participants evaluate available evidence, identify potential failure mechanisms, and consider appropriate inspection or mitigation measures.
These exercises develop a systematic approach to investigating integrity concerns rather than relying on isolated inspection findings. They also demonstrate how engineering judgement, historical records, and operational information contribute to sound asset management decisions.
Risk Assessment Exercises
Participants work through structured pipeline risk assessment scenarios involving threat identification, likelihood evaluation, consequence analysis, and risk prioritisation. Exercises explore how differences in pipeline location, product characteristics, operating conditions, and surrounding infrastructure influence integrity management priorities.
The methodology reinforces the distinction between identifying a defect and determining its significance. Participants learn to consider the available evidence, uncertainties, potential consequences, and need for further investigation before recommending an intervention.
Inspection and Defect Evaluation Scenarios
Practical scenarios introduce inspection planning, non-destructive examination, in-line inspection data interpretation, and the evaluation of reported anomalies. Participants consider the strengths and limitations of different inspection techniques and examine how inspection findings inform engineering assessments.
The exercises also address the importance of data quality, inspection coverage, defect characterisation, and documented acceptance criteria. This helps participants understand why inspection results require appropriate engineering interpretation before maintenance or operational decisions are made.
Group Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
Group exercises bring together engineering, operations, maintenance, and integrity perspectives. Participants assess hypothetical pipeline conditions, discuss competing priorities, and develop recommendations for inspection, repair, monitoring, or further investigation.
This collaborative approach reflects the cross-functional nature of pipeline integrity management. It strengthens communication between departments and demonstrates how clear responsibilities and documented decisions support consistent integrity outcomes.
Application to Workplace Practices
Throughout the programme, participants relate course concepts to pipeline asset registers, inspection histories, maintenance plans, risk registers, and integrity performance indicators. Discussions focus on practical improvements that organisations can implement within their existing management systems.
The methodology enables participants to connect standards-based knowledge with operational requirements, supporting more consistent integrity assessments and better-informed maintenance decisions.
Organisational impact
Effective pipeline integrity management supports business continuity, operational reliability, asset protection, and the consistent control of pipeline-related risks. By developing the capabilities of personnel responsible for pipeline assets, organisations strengthen their ability to identify emerging threats and prioritise interventions according to engineering evidence.
Improved Risk Identification and Control
A structured understanding of pipeline risk assessment enables personnel to identify threats systematically and evaluate their potential operational, environmental, and commercial consequences. Organisations gain a more consistent basis for prioritising pipeline segments, inspection activities, and mitigation measures.
This approach supports better allocation of engineering resources and helps management direct attention towards assets requiring the greatest level of scrutiny.
Reduced Unplanned Downtime
Pipeline failures and integrity-related restrictions disrupt production, transportation, processing, and delivery activities. Effective inspection planning and timely mitigation help organisations identify deterioration before it develops into a more serious operational problem.
The resulting improvements in maintenance prioritisation support planned interventions, more informed shutdown decisions, and better coordination between operations and maintenance teams.
More Effective Inspection and Maintenance Planning
The course develops understanding of risk-based inspection principles and the relationship between inspection findings and maintenance priorities. Organisations can use these capabilities to review inspection strategies, reduce unnecessary duplication, and focus resources on relevant threats.
Clearer inspection priorities also support more effective work scheduling, contractor coordination, and maintenance planning.
Stronger Standards-Based Practices
Understanding API 1160 and ASME B31.8 helps personnel recognise the technical expectations relevant to different pipeline systems. Organisations benefit from improved awareness of applicable engineering practices and a more structured approach to documenting integrity decisions.
The course supports informed implementation of relevant standards without replacing the organisation's responsibility to determine applicable legal requirements, codes, design conditions, and jurisdiction-specific obligations.
Better Protection of People and the Environment
Pipeline integrity failures expose employees, contractors, nearby communities, and the environment to potential harm. Improved threat recognition, defect assessment, and mitigation planning strengthen the organisation's ability to manage these risks.
A proactive integrity approach supports spill prevention, leak prevention, and the reduction of avoidable exposure to hazardous operating conditions.
Improved Asset Lifecycle Management
Pipeline infrastructure requires long-term management of condition, deterioration, operating history, and maintenance requirements. Participants develop an understanding of how these factors inform asset lifecycle decisions, including repair, rehabilitation, monitoring, and replacement.
Organisations gain a stronger foundation for balancing immediate operational needs with longer-term reliability and capital planning.
More Reliable Integrity Reporting
Accurate integrity records help organisations demonstrate the reasoning behind inspection priorities, engineering assessments, repairs, and monitoring decisions. The course reinforces the importance of consistent documentation, traceable findings, and relevant performance indicators.
These practices improve management visibility, facilitate internal reviews, and support more informed decisions regarding pipeline condition and future integrity expenditure.
Stronger Cross-Functional Coordination
Pipeline integrity relies on effective collaboration between operations, engineering, inspection, maintenance, corrosion management, and health, safety and environmental functions. A shared understanding of integrity principles helps teams communicate more effectively and resolve technical issues through coordinated action.
The organisational result is a more consistent approach to managing pipeline threats, implementing recommendations, and reviewing the effectiveness of integrity measures.
Personal impact
The Pipeline Integrity Management API 1160 and ASME B31.8 Training Course strengthens participants' technical understanding and practical contribution to pipeline asset management. It provides a structured foundation for professionals who need to evaluate integrity information, participate in risk-based decisions, and communicate engineering recommendations effectively.
Stronger Technical Knowledge
Participants develop a clearer understanding of pipeline deterioration mechanisms, integrity threats, inspection approaches, and recognised industry standards. This knowledge helps them interpret technical discussions and understand how pipeline condition influences operational decisions.
Improved Risk Assessment Capabilities
Participants learn to organise information about pipeline threats, assess the significance of potential failures, and contribute to risk-based prioritisation. These capabilities strengthen their contribution to integrity reviews, inspection planning, and mitigation decisions.
Greater Confidence in Inspection Planning
The programme develops understanding of how pipeline characteristics, threat mechanisms, inspection findings, and operational history influence inspection requirements. Participants become better equipped to discuss inspection objectives, evaluate information gaps, and support technically justified inspection plans.
Better Defect Assessment Awareness
Participants gain insight into the engineering considerations involved in evaluating pipeline anomalies and reported defects. They learn why defect dimensions, location, material properties, operating conditions, and assessment criteria influence decisions about repair, monitoring, or further investigation.
Improved Decision-Making
The course strengthens participants' ability to connect technical findings with operational priorities. They develop a more structured approach to evaluating options, documenting recommendations, and communicating the reasoning behind integrity-related decisions.
Enhanced Professional Collaboration
Participants improve their ability to engage with pipeline engineers, inspectors, corrosion specialists, maintenance teams, and operations managers. A shared technical vocabulary helps them contribute more effectively to cross-functional integrity reviews and planning discussions.
Career Development
Pipeline integrity management knowledge is relevant to professionals working in pipeline engineering, asset integrity, inspection, maintenance, operations, corrosion control, and risk management. The course provides professional development that supports broader responsibilities in pipeline reliability and asset lifecycle management.
Practical Workplace Application
Participants leave with a structured understanding of the processes that underpin pipeline integrity programmes. They can use this knowledge to review existing practices, identify areas requiring attention, contribute to improvement initiatives, and support more consistent management of pipeline assets.
Who should attend
Pipeline Integrity Engineers: Strengthen their understanding of integrity assessment, threat management, and risk-based intervention planning.
Pipeline Engineers: Improve their knowledge of pipeline operating conditions, defect evaluation, and the application of recognised standards.
Pipeline Inspection Engineers and Inspectors: Develop a clearer understanding of inspection planning, anomaly reporting, and the significance of inspection findings.
Asset Integrity Managers: Improve their ability to oversee integrity programmes, prioritise threats, and review asset condition information.
Maintenance Managers and Supervisors: Strengthen the link between integrity findings, corrective maintenance, repair planning, and work prioritisation.
Pipeline Operations Managers: Understand how operating conditions, process changes, and operational records influence pipeline integrity.
Corrosion Engineers and Specialists: Connect corrosion mechanisms, monitoring methods, and mitigation strategies with wider pipeline integrity objectives.
Reliability Engineers: Apply integrity management principles to support asset availability, maintenance planning, and failure prevention.
Risk and Process Safety Professionals: Improve their understanding of pipeline failure scenarios, consequence assessment, and integrity-related risk controls.
Quality Assurance and Technical Compliance Personnel: Develop greater awareness of standards-based practices, technical documentation, and integrity management records.
Project Engineers and Engineering Consultants: Understand the integrity considerations relevant to pipeline modifications, upgrades, and lifecycle planning.
Health, Safety and Environmental Professionals: Strengthen their understanding of pipeline failure hazards, leak prevention, and environmental risk controls.
Technical Team Leaders and Department Heads: Improve their ability to evaluate integrity recommendations, allocate resources, and oversee performance.
Senior Engineering and Operations Managers: Gain a structured perspective on pipeline integrity governance, operational exposure, and long-term asset protection.
Course outline
This module establishes the technical and operational foundations of pipeline integrity management. Participants examine the pipeline lifecycle, integrity management objectives, common failure mechanisms, and the role of recognised standards in supporting reliable pipeline operations. The module introduces the relationship between asset condition, operational exposure, inspection findings, and risk-informed maintenance decisions.
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API 1160
Provides guidance for managing the integrity of hazardous liquid pipeline systems.
Addresses a systematic approach to identifying, assessing, and managing pipeline integrity threats.
Supports risk-based decisions concerning assessment, mitigation, and ongoing integrity management.
Helps organisations establish structured processes for evaluating pipeline condition and managing identified risks.
Requires consideration of the pipeline system and the threats relevant to its operating environment when applying its guidance.
Learning Outcomes
Explain the purpose and principal elements of pipeline integrity management.
Distinguish the application of API 1160 to hazardous liquid pipelines from the application of gas pipeline standards.
Identify common threats that affect pipeline condition and reliability.
Explain how operational records, inspection findings, and asset information support integrity decisions.
Describe the responsibilities of key functions involved in pipeline integrity programmes.
Recognise the importance of lifecycle-based integrity planning and documented procedures.
This module focuses on identifying pipeline threats, assessing their significance, and establishing priorities for integrity management activities. Participants examine structured approaches to pipeline risk assessment and explore how threat characteristics, failure likelihood, potential consequences, and available evidence influence the selection of inspection and mitigation measures.
The module also considers the limitations of incomplete or inconsistent data and the importance of documenting assumptions. Participants develop an understanding of how risk assessments support defensible decisions rather than relying solely on fixed inspection schedules or historical maintenance practices.
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ASME B31.8
Establishes requirements for gas transmission and distribution piping systems within its defined scope.
Addresses design, materials, construction, testing, operation, and maintenance considerations relevant to gas piping systems.
Provides an engineering framework for understanding pipeline safety and operational integrity.
Supports the evaluation of applicable technical requirements when assessing gas pipeline conditions and proposed changes.
Must be applied according to its scope, relevant edition, and applicable jurisdictional requirements.
Learning Outcomes
Identify principal pipeline threats and organise them according to relevant threat mechanisms.
Explain the relationship between failure likelihood, potential consequences, and pipeline risk.
Identify the information required to support a structured pipeline risk assessment.
Evaluate the influence of operating conditions, pipeline location, and product characteristics on risk.
Recognise uncertainty and data limitations when interpreting risk assessment results.
Establish reasoned priorities for inspection, monitoring, and mitigation activities.
Explain how risk assessment findings support integrity management decisions.
This module examines inspection planning and the technical assessment of pipeline condition. Participants explore how inspection objectives are established, how appropriate assessment techniques are selected, and how inspection findings contribute to decisions about pipeline serviceability.
The module considers the capabilities and limitations of different inspection methods, including in-line inspection, external inspection, ultrasonic examination, and other non-destructive testing techniques. Emphasis is placed on understanding the difference between detecting an anomaly, characterising a defect, and determining its engineering significance.
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API 1163
Addresses the qualification of in-line inspection systems for pipeline applications.
Provides a framework for evaluating the performance of in-line inspection technologies and their results.
Supports consideration of inspection tool capabilities, limitations, and performance evidence.
Helps pipeline operators assess the suitability of inspection systems for defined inspection objectives.
Complements engineering assessment by supporting the evaluation of the reliability of in-line inspection information.
Learning Outcomes
Identify suitable inspection approaches for different pipeline integrity threats.
Explain the principal capabilities and limitations of common pipeline inspection methods.
Interpret the significance of reported inspection anomalies at a conceptual engineering level.
Identify the information required for defect characterisation and assessment.
Explain why inspection findings require appropriate validation and engineering interpretation.
Distinguish between anomaly detection, defect assessment, and repair decision-making.
Develop inspection follow-up recommendations based on threat priorities and available evidence.
This module examines the measures used to manage identified pipeline integrity threats and maintain acceptable operating conditions. Participants consider preventive controls, corrosion management, operational monitoring, defect repair, and the management of changes that affect pipeline condition or performance.
The focus is on connecting assessment results with practical intervention decisions. Participants explore how engineering recommendations, operational restrictions, repair priorities, and verification activities fit within an integrated pipeline integrity programme.
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ASME B31.4
Covers the design, materials, construction, testing, operation, and maintenance of pipeline transportation systems for liquid hydrocarbons and other covered liquids within its scope.
Provides engineering requirements relevant to the integrity of applicable liquid pipeline systems.
Supports consideration of appropriate technical controls for pipeline operation, repair, and maintenance.
Helps establish an engineering basis for evaluating applicable pipeline system requirements.
Must be used in conjunction with the relevant edition and applicable legal and jurisdictional requirements.
Learning Outcomes
Identify appropriate mitigation options for common pipeline integrity threats.
Explain the principles of corrosion control and integrity-related operational monitoring.
Recognise key engineering and operational considerations in pipeline repair planning.
Explain the role of management of change in preserving pipeline integrity.
Identify situations requiring urgent assessment, operational intervention, or further investigation.
Describe the importance of repair verification and documented closure of integrity actions.
Contribute to the development of practical mitigation plans that reflect risk priorities and operational requirements.
This module brings together the technical and management processes required to establish and maintain effective pipeline integrity programmes. Participants examine programme governance, inspection and assessment planning, data management, performance monitoring, documentation, and periodic review.
The module emphasises the importance of turning integrity information into consistent management decisions. Participants consider how organisations evaluate programme effectiveness, address recurring integrity issues, and improve the coordination of engineering, maintenance, inspection, and operational activities.
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ISO 55001
Specifies requirements for an asset management system.
Provides a framework for aligning asset management activities with organisational objectives.
Supports lifecycle planning, risk-informed decision-making, and the evaluation of asset management performance.
Encourages structured governance, documented responsibilities, and continual improvement.
Complements pipeline-specific standards by addressing wider organisational asset management practices.
Learning Outcomes
Identify the core components of a structured pipeline integrity programme.
Explain how asset records, inspection data, risk assessments, and maintenance plans support programme effectiveness.
Establish relevant indicators for monitoring integrity activities and action closure.
Recognise the importance of documented responsibilities, technical records, and management review.
Evaluate opportunities to improve inspection planning, maintenance coordination, and integrity reporting.
Explain how asset management principles support long-term pipeline reliability and lifecycle decisions.
Develop practical recommendations for improving pipeline integrity practices within their organisations.
Certificate
Upon successful completion of the Pipeline Integrity Management API 1160 and ASME B31.8 Training Course, attendees receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.
The certificate recognises participation in and completion of the training programme. Attendees must meet the institute's attendance requirement and complete the required course participation activities to qualify for the certificate.
The Certificate of Completion confirms completion of the training course. It does not constitute professional engineering registration, a third-party inspection qualification, or certification issued by API or ASME.
Course dates
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 Pipeline Integrity Management API 1160 and ASME B31.8 Training Course?
The course develops practical knowledge of pipeline integrity management, risk assessment, inspection planning, defect evaluation, mitigation, and integrity programme development. It explains the respective applications of API 1160 and ASME B31.8 and examines how recognised standards support pipeline reliability and risk control.
Who should attend this pipeline integrity management course?
The course is designed for pipeline engineers, integrity specialists, inspection personnel, corrosion engineers, maintenance managers, operations professionals, reliability engineers, and risk management personnel. Asset integrity managers, technical supervisors, and engineering leaders also benefit from its focus on standards, risk-based planning, and asset lifecycle management.
How is the course delivered?
Institute For Oil & Gas Training uses instructor-led technical sessions, practical case studies, pipeline risk assessment exercises, inspection scenarios, and group problem-solving activities. The delivery approach connects recognised standards with real-world pipeline integrity challenges and operational decision-making.
What standards and frameworks are covered during the course?
The course examines API 1160 for hazardous liquid pipeline integrity management and ASME B31.8 for gas transmission and distribution piping systems. It also introduces API 1163 for in-line inspection system qualification, ASME B31.4 for covered liquid pipeline transportation systems, and ISO 55001 for asset management systems. The applicability of each standard depends on the pipeline system, relevant edition, and jurisdiction.
What practical benefits will participants gain from completing the course?
Participants gain a structured understanding of pipeline threats, risk assessment, inspection methods, defect evaluation, mitigation planning, and integrity programme performance. They develop capabilities that support better-informed inspection priorities, maintenance decisions, technical reporting, and coordination between engineering and operations teams. Attendees who fulfil the institute's attendance requirement and complete the course receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.
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Pipeline Integrity Management (API 1160/ASME B31.8) Training...
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Next: 19 Oct 2026
4 dates available