NASSCO is proud to provide the underground infrastructure industry with a new online course designed to assist system owners and others involved in the management of assets.
PACP for Asset Management is beneficial for professionals who don’t code conditions on a day-to-day basis but need a basic understanding of PACP to develop effective asset management plans. The online course is self-paced, takes approximately four hours to complete, is affordable ($275) and qualifies for 0.3 CEU or 3.0 PDH credits.
PACP for Asset Management is composed of two modules: Utilizing Condition Grades andAssessing Risk. The course is intended for utility managers who require an understanding of PACP condition assessment results and how they can be interpreted to support proactive maintenance plans. It also covers how these results can be combined with computerized maintenance management systems and off-the-shelf tools like GIS to predict maintenance, rehabilitation and replacement activities using a data-driven, risk-based approach.
For individuals who need a more comprehensive education on pipeline assessment, NASSCO’s PACP Version 8.1 has launched. The program continues to expand to support the needs of the industry, and now includes updated examples of conditions, photos and diagrams to ensure course concepts are clearly represented. In addition, NASSCO addressed coding of defects in new pipe versus existing pipe and has incorporated that learning into PACP Version 8. For example, NASSCO expanded the conditions under which the joint small modifier may be used. In addition to dam and levee pipes — small modifiers may now be applied to force mains and pressure pipes, as well as post-rehabilitation and pre-acceptance surveys.
As part of the Version 8 revision, condition grade scores were reviewed and updated to ensure that each gives a clear representation of asset conditions for evaluation and planning. To align with industry standards, the PACP Version 8 Workgroup also reviewed the 2020 AASHTO Stormwater guideline to align NASSCO codes with their recommendations.
An appendix has been added for the Condition Assessment of Pressure Pipes, which includes new defect codes, access points and material types specific to pressure pipe. Existing PACP Codes will also be leveraged for Pressure Pipe Assessment.
New Pipe Use codes have been added for perforated pipes, nonsanitary and sanitary. Since these pipes intentionally allow water to enter and exit as part of an underground drainage system, perforated pipes have also been addressed in the condition grading system. There was an industry need for additional surface damage codes for materials other than concrete, so NASSCO added “SPP” for surface damage pitting or corrosion. In addition, a defective modifier “D” is now available for use with the “SZ,” or “Surface Damage Other” code, to be used if the surface damage contains other defects or if infiltration or roots are entering from the surface damage area.
Since 2001, PACP has become the national standard throughout North America, and as the industry grows and evolves, so does PACP. To enroll in a NASSCO course, please visit nassco.org.
