Introduction

This section of the web site presents some information on pipeline construction and the management of the environmental effects. It is not a definitive guide, but as a useful aide memoir or tool for young environmental professionals working in this sector. The guide has been compiled in recognition of the many ongoing and future pipeline projects and the increasing number of environmental scientists entering this field, which has to date had limited practical guidance.
The stages of pipeline construction typically include:
1. routing studies to select the preferred alignment.
2. detailed surveys of the selected right of way (ROW)
3. design and implementation of mitigation for animals and plants, which might include translocation, temporary removal or delays for issues such as nesting birds or doormice.
4. break through, tree felling, hedgerow clearance, crop cutting, brash processing.
5. pre-construction drainage
6. fencing
7. topsoil stripping, usually to one side of the ROW.
8. subsoil grading, benching and running track installation
9. stringing of pipe sections
10. welding
11. non-destructive testing
12. coating
13. trench excavation.
14. drainage marking/checking
15. ditching/lowering, tie-ins and backfilling
16. reconnections of drainage
17. grading, subsoil ripping and stone removal
18. reinstatement of ditches, streams and hedgebanks
19. pearson survey
20. topsoil reinstatement, tining and stone picking
21. permanent fencing and hedge planting
22. post construction drainage (sometimes earlier).
See next page for a practice guide.