STATS Group, a global pipeline engineering company and technology provider, has been granted a California Pipeline Contractor’s License, authorizing the company to perform specialized services throughout the state.

The certification provides STATS with the legal standing to bid on and execute major infrastructure projects. It ensures the company meets all California state and local regulations for pipeline maintenance, which is critical for both public works and utility infrastructure.

STATS Group, which manages its American operations from Houston, specializes in pressurized pipeline isolation, hot tapping, and line stopping. These services are essential for the safe maintenance of onshore, topside, and subsea pipeline systems.

The expansion comes in response to rising demand from California asset owners for STATS' proprietary BISEP line stopping technology. 

The tool addresses complex isolation challenges, such as pipelines with ovality or internal surface irregularities like corrosion and weld seams. The technology provides a leak-tight "double block and bleed" isolation, a safety standard that allows for repairs without shutting down entire systems.

"Our technology is highly regarded across the global energy sector for providing high integrity isolation and increased safety," said Jamie Frederick, president and general manager for the U.S. at STATS Group. 

"This license will provide opportunities to work on larger projects and enhance our credibility by demonstrating verified experience and adherence to safety and building codes."

Frederick noted that the license is a key component of the company’s national growth strategy. Before obtaining the license, the company completed several successful trials and demonstrations in the state.

"It supports our business growth strategy as we expand our services across the U.S. and will potentially serve as a stepping stone to other classifications," Frederick said. "We are now looking forward to providing our full range of services into the West Coast market."

The company's approach focuses on sustainability, allowing operators to carry out necessary repairs while minimizing environmental impacts. By utilizing high-integrity isolation, maintenance can be performed in a safe, efficient manner that avoids the need for extensive venting or draining of pipeline contents.