Atmospheric Corrosion
Atmospheric corrosion is an abnormal operating condition that is characterized into four levels. Levels one and two will not result in a disapproved Local Law 152 inspection; however, if the corrosion is not properly addressed in a timely manner, the repercussions will be costly repairs and prolonged gas shutdowns in your building. As the atmospheric corrosion level increases, the pace at which it worsens increases. Depending on the atmospheric corrosion severity on the pipes and fittings, it can disrupt gas service. It poses a significant hazard and tremendous potential for gas leaks to develop. Below are the descriptions of the four levels of atmospheric corrosion and what they look like:
Level 1 – None or Minimal Corrosion Severity: If there is level 1 corrosion detected, the steel surface of uncoated pipes and fittings will be covered entirely with adherent mill scale and little to no rust visible. There will be less than 1% surface area of rust on coated pipes and fittings.
Level 2 – Low Corrosion Severity: The steel surface will be covered with mill scale and rust on uncoated pipes and fittings with level 2 corrosion. On coated pipes and fittings, up to 3% surface area of rust will be present.
Level 3 – Medium Corrosion Severity: Level 3 corrosion must be reported and requires a field photo of the corrosion area. On uncoated pipes and fittings, the steel surface will be completely covered with rust, and there will be little to no pitting visible and potential for minor wall loss. Coated pipes and fittings will exhibit a 3% to 33% surface area of rust.
Level 4 – High Corrosion Severity: Like level 3 corrosion, level 4 must be reported immediately. Uncoated pipes and fittings will be fully covered in rust, with pitting visible and a high potential for significant wall loss. Over 33% surface area of rust will be present on coated pipes and fittings.
Atmospheric corrosion destroys pipes and severely damages the integrity of the gas pipes and fitting’s structure. Lack of proper maintenance will translate to corrosion developing at a more aggressive pace. The gas pipes’ wall thickness will be breached and becomes compromised to a point where it becomes highly likely for a gas leak to occur. It is crucial to apply rust-proof coating and insulation to prevent pipes from developing severe corrosion. As the corrosion worsens and is labeled as level 3 or level 4, the gas pipes must be replaced.
In 2016, the NYC Council passed Local Law 152, which requires all building owners to periodically inspect their gas piping to comply with New York City’s safety regulations. Local Law 152 went into effect on January 1st, 2019. Full implementation and inspections began on January 1st, 2020.
What is Local Law 152?
Local Law 152 requires an inspection conducted every five years for all multi-dwelling properties in New York City. The inspection must be performed by either a Licensed Master Plumber or a Qualified Operator. Local Law 152 is a leak survey conducted for all exposed gas piping inside and outside of a building from the point of entry, including public-accessible areas and service meters, up to tenet spaces. A Licensed Master Plumber uses an NYC-DOB-approved CGI to conduct a leak survey on the exposed pipes. A visual inspection of the piping is also conducted to search for abnormal operating conditions, such as atmospheric corrosion or non-compliant installations and supports.
After completing a Local Law 152 inspection, Gas Piping System Periodic Inspection Reports must be completed and filed with the NYC Department of Buildings. These reports must be kept on file by the inspection company and building owner for ten years. If a building does not pass a Local Law 152 inspection, they are responsible for completing the necessary repairs to comply with Local Law 152.
What We Do
CC Controlled Combustion Co. Inc. offers Local Law 152 inspections and pre-inspections conducted by one of our Licensed Master Plumbers or Qualified Operators. During a Local Law 152 inspection, our Licensed Master Plumber or Qualified Operator will check for the following conditions:
- Atmospheric Corrosion
- Point of Entry Wall Penetrations (Not Sealed)
- Illegal Connections
- Non-Code Complaint Installations
Upon completing a Local Law 152 inspection, we offer repairs and recommendations to ensure your building complies with NYC laws that meet or exceed industry standards, codes, and specifications. For any questions regarding Local Law 152 inspections and deadlines, please feel free to contact us for additional information and quotes.