The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) is conducting a study to evaluate the environmental impacts of decommissioning offshore pipelines and subsea infrastructure in place (DIP) on the Gulf of America Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Current regulations (30 CFR 250 Subpart Q) allow DIP with approval, but concerns remain about residual contaminants—such as scale, paraffin, chemicals, and naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM)—after flushing. This research aims to inform BSEE’s decision-making by assessing contamination risks, comparing DIP pipelines to those removed and cleaned onshore, and identifying best practices for decontamination.
The study includes: (1) a comprehensive literature review of U.S. and international standards and mitigation measures; (2) development of a sampling plan and collection kits; (3) offshore and onshore sampling of at least ten pipelines and five components; and (4) laboratory analysis of composition and toxicity following USEPA and USCG standards. Results will support National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews and address knowledge gaps identified in recent GAO reports on pipeline oversight and decommissioning. The final peer-reviewed research report will be Section 508 compliant and made publicly available to enhance transparency and improve regulatory oversight of DIP proposals.
Ongoing