Section 20.10 - Periodic InspectionsAt a minimum, each Steam Distribution Company shall conduct the following periodic inspections:
(1)Steam Traps. The Steam Distribution Company shall establish and maintain an active Steam Trap survey program for the regular systematic inspection, testing, repair or replacement of all Steam Traps, to ensure that they are working properly. Each survey shall also include the inspection and replacement or remediation of associated trap piping assemblies (i.e., small bore pipe) that show signs of Active Corrosion during the survey. Additionally, each survey must comply with the following: (a) All Steam Traps and trap piping assemblies shall be inspected seasonally for general condition and proper operation. At least four inspections shall be conducted in each calendar year, once per quarter, at intervals not exceeding four months.(b) Traps that fail inspection must be replaced or remediated upon discovery but no later than 60 days from discovery.(c) Corrosion under removable insulation on traps and trap assemblies shall be checked four times per year, once per quarter, at intervals not exceeding four months.(2)Blow-off Valves and Bypass Valves. Blow-off Valves and Bypass Valves shall be inspected for operability immediately prior to closing each associated Main Valve during a scheduled shut-down of a section of the Main and associated Service Piping. Condensate shall be removed from a shut down section of the Main and associated Service Piping prior to reopening Main Valves.(3)Accessible Expansion Joints. Accessible Expansion Joints shall be inspected every six months. The inspection shall include, as applicable, checks for leakage, proper alignment, and traverse measurement.(4)Inaccessible Expansion Joints. Inaccessible Expansion Joints shall be surveyed for any potential leakage on a ten-year schedule that accomplishes 10% each year, using best available methods or techniques.(5)Manholes. Manholes containing Mains and Service Piping shall be inspected for general conditions, including the following:(a) Steam distribution equipment inside the manhole at least once each calendar year at intervals not exceeding 15 months;(b) Support systems inside manholes, such as anchors, guides, and supports, shall be checked for atmospheric corrosion at least once each calendar year at intervals not exceeding 15 months;(c) Surface temperature readings of manhole castings, covers and appurtenances that are located at or above grade and subject to contact with pedestrians, vehicles and other members of the public, at least once each calendar year at intervals not exceeding 15 months; and (d) Structural integrity at least once every five calendar years.(6) Upon the removal from service of any Expansion Joint or steel Main or Service Piping, the Steam Distribution Company shall inspect the item for internal corrosion and for external corrosion under insulation (CUI). A removed Expansion Joint shall include pipe coupons (short segments of pipes) at least 12" long where possible or an appropriate length as determined by the Steam Distribution Company. For removed Main or Service Piping, inspection of a pipe coupon (12" or greater) is sufficient. The Steam Distribution Company shall document and maintain records of these inspections to support future inspections of pipe remaining in service.Amended by Mass Register Issue 1468, eff. 4/29/2022.Amended by Mass Register Issue 1470, eff. 4/29/2022.