The quality management (QM) process, as it relates to pipelines, is a risk based, systematic process that identifies the activities required to
maintain pipeline integrity. Through the application of the QM process, limited funds and resources can be deployed in the areas of highest risk to reduce the likelihood of catastrophic failures. The process can easily be applied to any pipeline system from the very simple to the very complex. The process clearly identifies the pipeline function, operating envelopes, deterioration mechanisms, failure modes and effects, associated risks, and maintenance requirements. Pipeline maintenance activities identified within the process are easily justified as they are the result of a structured risk based analysis. This paper includes a simplified review of the quality management process (QM) and a case history showing how applying this process helped a production company focus inspection activities and successfully revealed severe internal corrosion. Keywords: quality management, internal pitting corrosion, inspection, monitoring