What is the required action if operation personnel detect a breach in a pipeline?

The correct course of action when operation personnel detect a breach in a pipeline is to shut down the originating station. This step is critical because shutting down the station helps to stop the flow of product through the pipeline, thereby minimizing potential environmental damage, reducing safety risks, and allowing for a controlled response to the breach.

In situations like these, immediate safety measures must be prioritized to ensure the safety of the personnel involved and the surrounding community. By shutting down the originating station, the scope of the breach is contained, making it manageable for further investigations and repairs. This action also aligns with regulatory requirements and best practices in pipeline safety management.

Other actions, such as investigating the breach, notifying local authorities, or beginning repairs might be essential components of the overall response process. However, those steps come into play after the immediate safety concern is addressed by shutting down operations to prevent further issues.