The ECDA process requires a continuous effort from the pipeline operator to improve the reliability of classification and prioritization criteria.
Based on the results of the direct examinations, these criteria can be up-graded or down-graded as part of the retrospective evaluation and the number of such re-evaluations can be used as criteria in the long-term assessment of the ECDA effectiveness.
This paper covers criteria evaluation and specific lessons learned by comparing the results of the direct examinations with predictions based on indirect inspections and pre-assessment data collected on more than 30 gas pipelines in Ontario, Canada.
