Identifying and Coding Broken Pipes and Holes

In this lesson, we’ll focus on two critical defects that can compromise the structural integrity of sewer pipes: broken pipes and holes. You’ll learn how to identify these defects, understand their severity, and properly code them using the MSCC5 system.

Broken Pipe (B)

A broken pipe is defined as a pipe where the pieces are obviously displaced and have moved from their original position by half the pipe wall thickness or greater. This defect code is used only for pipe drains and is more likely to occur in rigid pipes (e.g., vitrified clay, concrete etc) than flexible pipes (e.g., PVC, PE).

Use the code “B” for a broken pipe

• Don’t forget the first thing you would note is the distance.
• If the break is close to a joint, add the letter “J” to the code (BJ: Broken at Joint).
• Use one or two clock references to describe the circumferential extent of the break.
• If more than one break occurs within a one-meter length, enter it as a single break.

In rigid pipe materials there is a close affinity between a broken pipe and a deformed pipe. Broken pipes are commonly caused by a load acting externally to the pipe, in effect squeezing the pipe. Because it is a rigid material there is high likelihood of the pipe breaking when the the material cannot withstand the load. The other common example of a broken pipe is where there has been a point impact on the external surface of the pipe. In both cases it is possible that there could be hole as well as the pipe being broken and/or deformed.

Remember to add a ‘J’ if the break is close to a joint.

Examples of broken drains

The image above is an example of a broken joint, with its location highlighted using the clock reference methodology.

The correct way of describing this would be Broken at Joint  from 1 o’clock to 5 o’clock. The joint should always be added as the defect is considered worse if at a joint. The shorthand code for this would be BJ 01-05

A broken pipe will be a DRB Grade: C

Remedial Recommendation

This defect makes the drain unserviceable and will require some form of repair or replacement. Normally excavation and replacement is the best repair option although there are options of either patch lining (CIPR) or full lining (CIPP).

Hole (H)

A hole is defined as a visible opening in the pipe wall. This defect code is used only for pipe sewers.

• Use the code “H” for a hole in the pipe wall
• Use one or two clock references to describe the extent of the hole
• If more than one hole occurs within a one-meter length, enter it as a single hole

Examples of Holes

The hole in the pipe above would be described as a Hole from 10 o’clock to 2 o’clock. If it is close to a joint there is no need to add the J. The shorthand method of coding this would be H 10-02

A Hole will be DRB Grade: C

Remedial Recommendation: A Hole will make the drain unserviceable and will require some form of repair or replacement. Normally excavation and replacement is the best repair option although there are options of either patch lining (CIPR) or full lining (CIPP).

Holes and Breaks are structural defects that affect the fabric of the drain and are typically designated as DRB grade C defects, making the drain unserviceable and requiring repair. By accurately identifying and coding broken pipes and holes, you’ll provide essential information about the structural condition of the sewer pipes you survey, helping your clients prioritize critical repairs and maintain the integrity of their sewer systems.