Industry Evolution: Incident/Accident Reporting, Farm Taps & More

This is the final installment in EWN's Industry Evolution educational series on the OQ NPRM. In this post, we cover several additional regulatory areas included in the PHMSA proposed rulemaking: Incident/Accident Reporting, Farm Taps, Cost Recovery for Design Reviews, Special Permits, Pipeline Assessment Tools, Confidential Information procedures, the Plastic Pipes Rule, and an overview of the Safety of Gas Transmission Pipelines NPRM.

Incident/Accident Reporting

PHMSA's proposed changes to incident and accident reporting include a 1-hour notification requirement from the time of confirmed discovery of an incident. This is a significant change from current practice. Additionally, a 48-hour update is required after the initial notification. The rule also clarifies the definition of "confirmed discovery."

Farm Taps

The NPRM addresses Farm Taps, providing specific exemptions and inspection requirements. Farm taps that serve as service lines to individual farm residences may qualify for certain regulatory relief under the proposed rule, but operators must carefully review whether their specific configurations meet the exemption criteria.

Cost Recovery for Design Reviews

The proposed rule includes provisions for PHMSA to recover costs associated with design reviews of new pipeline projects. Operators planning new construction should be aware of these potential additional costs as they plan budgets and timelines.

Special Permits

The NPRM clarifies the Special Permits renewal process. Operators holding special permits should review the updated procedures for renewal to ensure continued compliance and avoid lapses in permit status.

Pipeline Assessment Tools

For liquid pipelines, the proposed rule references Pipeline Assessment Tools including API STD 1163 and NACE standards. Operators of liquid pipeline systems should familiarize themselves with these referenced standards as they may become incorporated by reference into the regulations.

Confidential Information

Procedures for handling confidential information are addressed under 49 CFR 190.343. Operators submitting sensitive business information to PHMSA should be aware of the proper procedures for requesting confidential treatment of that information.

Plastic Pipes Rule

The Plastic Pipes portion of the rule addresses socket fusion, leak clamps, compaction, and traceability requirements. Operators using plastic pipe in their distribution systems must ensure their procedures and records meet the enhanced traceability and installation requirements.

Safety of Gas Transmission Pipelines NPRM

PHMSA has also issued a separate NPRM on the Safety of Gas Transmission Pipelines. This is a broad rulemaking that will affect transmission pipeline operators and touches on integrity management, repair criteria, and other significant operational requirements. EWN will continue to monitor and provide updates on this rulemaking as it progresses.