Latest news with #ASMEB31.8
New Straits Times
28-07-2025
- New Straits Times
Gas pipeline system in country remains safe, Dewan Rakyat told
KUALA LUMPUR: The gas pipeline system throughout Malaysia remains safe based on inspections conducted by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (Dosh), following the fire incident at Putra Heights on April 1. Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad said Dosh remains committed to ensuring the highest level of safety, not only for workers but also for the public. "In addressing issues related to the standard operating procedures for the maintenance of Petronas' gas pipelines, I must emphasise that the investigation found Petronas' pipeline safety measures to be in accordance with internationally recognised standards. "Based on the steps taken and inspections conducted by Dosh, the gas pipeline system across Malaysia remains safe. "Therefore, Dosh has directed the gas pipeline operator to immediately implement control and improvement measures to ensure continued safe and high-integrity pipeline operations," he said in the Dewan Rakyat. He was responding to Datuk Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi (PN–Kuala Langat), who asked about the cause of the recent Petronas gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights and the government's assurance that the pipeline area and system remain safe. Rahman said seven measures have either been implemented or are currently underway. These include conducting technical assessments of gas pipelines using advanced technologies such as the Geo-Pipeline Inspection Gauge and Electromagnetic Locator, particularly in densely populated areas as prescribed by international standard ASME B31.8 and increasing the frequency of pipeline patrols in high-risk and densely populated zones. Other measures include updating geotechnical risk (geohazard) assessments and drainage systems in pipeline areas to identify potential early hazards; installing real-time monitoring systems to detect any abnormal changes in pipeline operations; and increasing the number of detection devices at critical locations to enable continuous safety monitoring. Additional actions involve enhancing training and emergency preparedness, including reviewing existing emergency response plans, and conducting public safety awareness campaigns to encourage community vigilance and the reporting of suspicious activity along pipeline routes. "Under the principle of self-regulation as outlined in the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA 1994), it is the responsibility of all parties to ensure that occupational safety and health are upheld at the highest level. "Should the investigation reveal any violations of laws enforced by DOSH, firm action will be taken without compromise," he added. Regarding the technical investigation, Rahman said the process involved visual inspections at the incident site, measurements and examination of pipeline components, sample collection for laboratory testing, control system reviews, and computer-based analysis. "The investigation found that the gas pipeline involved met the required technical specifications. Analysis showed the pipeline broke due to mechanical fatigue at the welded joint. "When the pipeline lacked ground support, it experienced repeated movement or cyclic loading, which led to fatigue concentrated at the welded joint. "The pipeline underwent significant underground movement due to physical changes in the surrounding area. This was further exacerbated by long-term water accumulation, which caused erosion of the soil supporting the pipeline," he said. He added that anthropogenic activities around the site, which altered the original topography, also contributed to soil instability. These findings were consistent with the report by the Minerals and Geoscience Department.
The Star
01-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Two-phase repair process initiated for burst gas pipeline in Putra Heights
PETALING JAYA: Repair works on the damaged underground gas pipeline in Putra Heights, which burst on April 1, are being carried out in two phases with strict adherence to safety protocols and regulatory standards, says the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH). In a statement on Tuesday (July 1), it said that Phase One involves installing a temporary 210-metre gas pipeline to replace the damaged section. "To enhance safety, ground reinforcement is carried out at the site using a bridge foundation support structure measuring approximately eight metres by 100 metres to provide greater stability to the pipeline. "Extensive safety has been conducted, including Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) on welding joints and a 24-hour pressure test. "The results, verified by DOSH and an independent third party, confirmed there were no leaks or pressure drops," said DOSH. It also said that the temporary pipeline was scheduled to resume operation on July 1. For Phase Two, it stated that works would involve the permanent replacement of three gas pipelines, each approximately 200 metres in length. "These will be laid on reinforced concrete slab structures to ensure a safer and more durable setup. "Engineering design for this phase is currently underway, with operations expected to commence in the third quarter of 2026," it said. DOSH stated that all works would be carried out in full compliance with internationally recognised technical codes and standards, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers – Gas Transmission and Distribution Piping Systems (ASME B31.8). "The appointed contractor is registered with DOSH and meets stringent regulatory requirements, including compliance with welding procedures and welder qualifications. "Various geotechnical assessments such as soil mapping, subsoil and bedrock studies, and ground movement monitoring have been undertaken to ensure long-term site stability and safety," said DOSH. It added that PETRONAS has been instructed to provide real-time monitoring access to the pipeline's isolation valve system, allowing for immediate shutdown in the event of an emergency On April 1, a gas pipeline fire occurred at Putra Heights, with flames reaching heights of over 30 meters and temperatures exceeding 1,000°C. It took nearly eight hours to fully extinguish the fire. The incident resulted in the total destruction of 81 homes, all suffering structural damage of over 40%. Additionally, 81 homes experienced partial damage, while another 57 homes were affected but did not burn. Fortunately, 218 homes remained unaffected by the fire.
New Straits Times
01-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Temporary gas pipeline to begin supply in Putra Heights today
PUTRAJAYA: A temporary pipeline in Putra Heights will supply gas starting from today as repair works on the damaged line are being conducted. The Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) said the works are part of a two-phase project to restore safe and stable gas supply to residents and businesses affected by the April 1 incident. "Phase 1 involved installing a 210-metre temporary pipeline to replace the damaged section. "To stabilise the ground at the site, a bridge foundation structure measuring approximately 8 metres by 100 metres was constructed to provide additional support for the pipe," it said in a statement issued by DOSH's director-general's office today. Comprehensive safety tests, including non-destructive testing (NDT) of welding joints and a 24-hour pressure test, were conducted, it said. It said the results, verified by DOSH and an independent third party, confirmed that there were no leaks or pressure drops. "With safety certified, the temporary pipeline will begin supplying gas on July 1 to restore consistent service to users. "Phase 2 will see the installation of three new gas pipelines, each around 200 metres in length, at the affected location." It said concrete slab structures will be used to house the new pipes, offering improved safety and durability. Engineering designs for this phase are currently being finalised, with operations expected to begin in the third quarter of 2026. "DOSH emphasised that safety remains the top priority in all repair efforts. "All work is being carried out in full compliance with recognised international technical codes and standards, including ASME B31.8 (Gas Transmission and Distribution Piping Systems by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers)." It said contractors involved in the works are registered with DOSH and meet its strict regulatory requirements. It said welding procedures and welder qualifications also adhere to prescribed technical standards. "Geotechnical assessments, including soil mapping, subsoil and rock layer studies, and ground movement monitoring, are being conducted to ensure the long-term stability and safety of the pipeline installation site." DOSH also gave its assurance that all works are being closely and impartially monitored to safeguard not only the construction workers, but also nearby residents and businesses. As an additional safety measure, Petronas has been instructed to provide real-time monitoring access to the pipeline's isolation valve system, ensuring immediate shutdown in the event of an emergency, it said. "DOSH acknowledged the urgency of restoring gas supply and reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring every stage of the project to ensure it is carried out responsibly, restoring public confidence in the safety of the gas pipeline system in the area." Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari in a statement yesterday said although the gas pipeline met the required technical specifications and standards, its failure was attributed to several environmental factors. They include unstable soil conditions, long-term groundwater accumulation which softened the soil in the area, monsoon drainage structures and culverts affected by the soil conditions, as well as climatic stress and population density. On April 1, a massive fire broke out at a Petronas gas pipeline in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya. The heat from the flames, visible for kilometres away, damaged houses and vehicles, among others.
