The project

The Swiss Federal Pipeline Inspectorate (FPI) is the technical supervisory authority for all high-pressure gas- and oil-pipelines in Switzerland. The FPI, in a joint effort with other federal authorities and the pipeline operators, is continuously aiming at improving the risk assessment for pipelines. Construction activities near the pipelines by third parties are crucial for this assessment. However, due to a lack of data, this evaluation was very broadly estimated until recently. The FPI asked CORESO to revise this estimation by combining new data with advanced scientific methods.

Our contribution

CORESO used a mix of modelling techniques, such as Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and data science, to combine and analyse the different geo-referenced data on pipelines, construction areas and recent constructions by third parties. This approach allowed a precise estimation of the construction density and provided non-anticipated insights on how the construction density changes in the proximity of populated areas.

The outcome

Thanks to CORESO's scientific and technical know-how, it was possible to deliver an evidence-based estimation of the different construction densities. The results will help decision-makers in their review of the risk-reducing measures accordingly, and eventually, help reduce the risk of accidents.

This study was completed and delivered during the third quarter of 2020.