A temporary pipeline protection apparatus. The apparatus includes a cylindrical sleeve having a pair of halves, each of the halves having a pair of opposed edges parallel to an axis of the cylindrical sleeve. A first edge of each pair of edges of the halves are connected together by at least one hinge assembly configured to move among a closed position, an installation and removal position, and a shipping and transportation position. A latch is configured to close the cylindrical sleeve at a second edge of each of the edges when in the closed position.