L’APPORT DES SYSTEMES D'INFORMATIONS GEOGRAPHIQUES DANS LA GESTION DES RISQUES LIES AU TRANSPORT DES HYDROCARBURES PAR PIPELINES : CAS DE L’OLEODUC HASSI MESSAOUD- HASSI RMEL (ALGERIE)

Abstract

Pipelines are means of transporting hydrocarbons, they form a major part of land planning. This area of transport has advantages : mass oil transportation on long distances and the preservation of environment. Obviously, pipelines are the most secure means of transporting hydrocarbons, but this must not cover up its risks and to which the mastery of this kind of means requires Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This article deals with the extension of the LNG pipeline linking Hassi Messaoud to Hassi Rmel in the Sahara, over 336 kilometre-distance which crosses several southern municipalities. The pipeline will be operational in 2015. It will definitly contribute in increasing Sonatrach oïl company's offers , but the stakes of vulnerability have not as yet been taken into consideration, industrial studies focused only on hazard risks. The aim of this study is to resourse to GIS to assess vulnerability. GIS allows a more detailed and controlled approach to face up to any risk associated with pipelines and its consequences, to improve prevention of risks and focus on deriving the managers' concerns from hazards to vulnerability. Moreover, filling the gap due to the lack of risk mapping and simulation which are important tools in risk managemen