Learnings

Outcomes

Progress 2019/2020: 
The successful HAZID meeting didn’t identify any significant risks to the project, though it did create some constructive design discussions which will help to inform the final design of the solution. The second part of the workshop, known as the FMECA, is scheduled in for June and will also help to establish the final design. 

All relevant stakeholders have been actively engaged in this project so far. Sarco are constantly evolving the design of the solution following the project team input, and DNV are working on all the procedural and policy documentation. 

Closure 2020/2021: 
The project was successful and achieved the outcome that was desired at the outset. The solution developed provided was able to be deployed in a trial environment, achieve an adequate seal and allow the cutting and welding operations to take place successfully. 
There is adequate scope for this project to be developed further to incorporate additional pipe diameters and to use it on numerous gas sites, both at transmission and distribution levels. 

Lessons Learnt

Progress 2019/2020: 
Due to the current situation with COVID-19, the project team, along with wider NG stakeholders, conducted a virtual HAZID style workshop via Microsoft Teams. This type of workshop has traditionally always been carried out face to face with all stakeholders, but due to lockdown restrictions, this was not an option. The workshop challenged and reviewed current component design as well as the operational philosophy of how the component is intended to be used. This meeting was efficient, worthwhile and promoted healthy debate.  

This virtual workshop showcases that it is possible to conduct certain meetings remotely and effectively and should be considered in future to drive efficiencies, reduce travel and maximise effectiveness of these types of meetings. 

Closure 2020/2021: 
In addition to the comments mentioned above, most of this project has been carried out remotely. This project has shown that with an engaged team and a strong project structure, a lot of the activities for a project of this nature can be carried out remotely, negating the need for substantial travel. 

The qualification process for this project has now set a precedent for how National Grid trials a tool such as this for use in an operational environment.