About API RP 1173:

This recommended practice (RP) establishes a pipeline safety management systems (PSMS) framework for organizations that operate hazardous liquids and gas pipelines jurisdictional to the US Department of Transportation. Operators of other pipelines may find this document applicable useful in operating to their systems.

This RP provides pipeline operators with safety management system requirements that when applied provide a framework to reveal and manage risk, promote a learning environment, and continuously improve pipeline safety and integrity. At the foundation of a PSMS is the operator's existing pipeline safety system, including the operator's pipeline safety processes and procedures. This RP provides a comprehensive framework and defines the elements needed to identify and address safety for a pipeline's life cycle. These safety management system requirements identify what is to be done, and leaves the details associated with implementation and maintenance of the requirements to the individual pipeline operators.

This RP presents the holistic approach of "Plan-Do-Check-Act" and is the American National Standard for pipeline safety management systems.

About the API RP 1173 Companion Guide:

The Companion Guide for API RP 1173 is a compilation of three Booklets generated by API:

• Booklet 1: Why a Pipeline SMS Will Benefit Pipeline Safety: This booklet introduces the values behind a SMS of flexibility, scalability and the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle as well as the benefits of establishing a holistic framework to pipeline safety.
• Booklet 2: What is a Pipeline SMS?: Booklet 2 describes the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle and its relation to industry-wide pipeline core values of safety, learning from experience, and continuous improvement. This booklet will also describe how each of the essential elements in API RP 1173 will improve safety culture.
• Booklet 3: How to Implement a Pipeline SMS: The final installment in the SMS series, this booklet includes suggestions and guidance for how to build and execute an implementation plan for API RP 1173.