Polyethylene Piping Research
Research into the safety of polyethylene piping should be conducted to ensure long-term reliability.
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedThe Government accepts this recommendation. We must have sufficient knowledge about the replacement material to be confident that a similar situation will not arise again. HSE will review the natural gas programme and identify any possible gaps. If additional research work is needed to ensure the results can be applied to LPG then this will be taken forward by HSE. HSE to consult with IGEM, UKLPG and PE pipe manufacturers on appropriate integrity tests. (Cm. 7849, paras 39-42)
Progress Timeline
Implementation confirmed by HSE. All buried metallic LPG service pipe replacements completed by 2015 deadline.
HSE reviewed natural gas pipeline replacement research on polyethylene pipe long-term stability. Findings indicated PE pipes have long-term stability (50-year design life, potentially extendable). HSE consulted with IGEM, UKLPG and PE pipe manufacturers on integrity tests.
Published Evidence
Published assessments of progress from inspectorates, select committees, official progress reports, and other sources. Source type badge indicates whether each assessment is independent or government self-reported.
HSE funded research into polyethylene piping safety and published guidance for domestic LPG customers. HSE went beyond the Gill recommendation in providing advice for domestic premises.
View detailed findings
Research findings informed the development of safety guidance for both commercial and domestic LPG installations. Published as INDG428 and supporting online guidance.