Explanatory note

These Regulations provide for the protection of offshore installations which are connected to a pipe-line conveying flammable or toxic substances from dangers arising from the pipe-line.

The Regulations come into force on 12th July 1989. They will apply to pipe-lines constructed under an authorisation granted after that date from the time of construction and to all other pipe-lines from 31st December 1990 (regulation 3).

The Regulations require an emergency shut-down valve to be incorporated in the risers which connect pipe-lines to offshore installations at a position on the risers prescribed by the Regulations (regulations 5 and 6). Provisions are made which regulate the re-opening of the valves and impose requirements concerning their periodic inspection and testing (regulations 7 and 8). A prohibition is imposed on the use of pipe-lines which do not comply with the Regulations (regulation 4).