It seems the more we know, the more there is to learn, and I think that’s why so many of us are drawn to the underground infrastructure industry. Not every person can know every trenchless technology or method, so the more we share information and knowledge, the more our industry will thrive.

This came to mind recently when, while attending an educational session at a large industry conference earlier this year, I was surprised to learn that some contractors identify the holes in perforated pipe as defects. This is not their fault — they just don’t have the knowledge. That’s why the inclusion of perforated pipe codes, among many other updates and improvements in the recently launched Pipeline Assessment Certification Program Version 8.0 is so important. While every version of NASSCO’s PACP has delivered valuable instruction in the proper coding of pipeline conditions, each version becomes more robust based on what we learn from the industry.

NASSCO’s Infrastructure Condition Assessment Committee set forward efforts to introduce perforated pipe to the standard. Perforated pipe can now be used for sanitary and nonsanitary use, for drainage of partially treated sewage, or for groundwater as part of an underground drainage system, thus removing the misalignment of grading when inspecting perforated pipe. The committee also sought to define perforated pipe where it is described as “a pipe that has a series of small holes, slots or intentionally installed small, separated joints, that allow water to enter or exit them easily.” 

After much collaboration, the committee identified the need to introduce new grades for the small joint defect for angular, offset and separated where its grade would be low to represent its existence but not identify it as a fault. Joints that would exhibit medium to large openings would still be classed as a defect and graded as such given the risk of potential soil migration. Further, infiltration stains, weepers, drippers and runners were seen as normal functioning inflow to the perforated pipe and was provided a low grade, again to represent its existence but not identify a fault. Infiltration gusher would be seen as inflow under pressure and would have a detriment to the surrounding pipe with likely soil migration and loss of ground, as such receiving a high grade. 

These changes are designed to realign and standardize the scoring of perforated pipe segments, and this is just one of many improvements to NASSCO’s PACP Version 8.0. To learn more, upgrade to PACP Version 8.0 certification, and sign up for a class, please visit nassco.org.