126.03.04 Ark. Code R. § 002 - Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code

Current through Register Vol. 2021, No. 11, November, 2021

Docket	Date	Order No.	Subject Matter of Docket/Order
U-2424	01/02/73	--	Adoption of Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code.
U-2683	01/30/76	--	General Revisions to Code.
U-2794	02/24/77	--	General Revisions to Code.
U-2908	02/03/78	--	General Revisions to Code.
U-2999	02/15/79	--	General revision to Code with emphasis on corrosion requirements.
U-3083	03/18/80	2	Adds requirements for qualifying persons and procedures for the joining of plastic pipe.
81-040-U	03/11/81	3	Amends requirements concerning plastic pipe joining and external corrosion control monitoring.
82-059-R	04/16/82	6	Adds Part 190 - Pipeline Safety Enforcement Procedures, and updates industry standards publications.
83-015-R	03/07/83	2	Adds requirements for a Damage Prevention Program, and provides flexibility in scheduling inspections and tests.
84-034-R	07/06/84	4	General Code revisions.
85-086-R	08/21/85	3	Revised Part 191 - Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Annual Reports and Incident Reports. Also revised the Code format. Complete republication by Order No. 4.
			regarding plastic pipe, welder qualification, preheating, stress relieving, nondestructive testing, bends and elbows.
88-005-R	07/14/88	4	Revised Part 190 to provide for waivers, extensions, response to accident recommendations, and re-numbered paragraphs. Part 192 amended for Class locations, MAOP, testing repairs, odorization testing, damage prevention, & R/V calculation.
89-034-R	08/02/89	3	Part 191 amended to include Safety-Related Condition Reports. Part 192 amended for deletion of outdated references, adding requirements for safety-related conditions to be included in O & M plans, testing requirements for tie-in joints. Added Part 199 - Drug Testing. Establishes an employee drug testing program required of operators subject to Part 192.
90-015-R	03/23/90	3	General revisions with emphasis on updating of Standards & Specifications; class location vs. MAOP; cast/ductile iron, & copper pipe; Part 199 - changes caused by deletion of "Rehabilitation Committee" & its definition; changes in Drug tests required.
91-056-R	06/06/91	3	Care when using tracer wire with plastic pipe, and lubrication requirements for valves.
92-036-R	05/12/92	3	Parts 192 and 199 changed to reflect requirement of operators to amend plans and procedures as necessary for safety. Preface and Part 190 changed to reflect increase in civil penalties.
93-020-R	04/26/93	3	Parts 191 and 192 changed to include certain gathering lines containing 100 ppm or more of hydrogen sulphide. Part 192 further changed by correcting certain discrepancies not previously discovered. Code format revised and complete republication of the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code.
94-025-R	09/12/94	4	Update of referenced Standards & Specifications; addition of requirement for gas detection in certain compressor station buildings; clarification of leakage survey requirements. Part 199 changes to record keeping, and a new requirement for an annual report on the anti-drug program.
95-116-R	04/27/95	3	Definitions section and Parts 190 and 192 changed to reflect the requirement that certain new and replacement pipelines be designed and constructed to accommodate instrumented internal inspection devices. Part 190 changed to clarify the language in the issuance and handling of show cause orders. Part 192 changed to require meters which have been installed indoors to be in a ventilated place and not less than 3 feet from any source of ignition or source of heat which might damage the meter, to require detailed procedures in O&M manuals, that operators review and update their O&M manuals each year, and that operators prepare and follow procedures to safeguard personnel from unsafe accumulations of vapors or gas in excavated trenches. Part 199 reformatted to add Subpart B, Alcohol Misuse Prevention Program. Preface changed to include new title of Part 199. Complete republication of the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code.
96-181-R	08/20/96	3	Preface and Part 190 changed to reflect increased civil penalties. Part 192 changed to include notification requirement for customer-owned service lines, to extend existing excavation damage prevention requirements for gas pipelines in urban areas to gas pipelines in rural areas, and to require, with limited exceptions, line markers for transmission lines in urban areas. Part 199 changed to allow for the possibility of a reduced random drug testing rate, and to require reporting of information concerning missed tests. Complete republication of the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code.
97-034-R	04/03/97	3	Preface changed to explain the codification of the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act. Definition of "petroleum gas" added and definition of "transmission line" revised in the Definitions section. Numerous minor changes to Parts 191 and 192. Addition of performance standards for excess flow valves to Part 192. Appendices A and B to Part 192 updated. Minor revisions to Part 199. Complete republication of the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code.
99-130-R	08/02/99	3	All Parts changed to include metric equivalents for English measures. Part 192 changed to require that Excess Flow Valves ("EFO") close at 50% or less of the manufacturer's rated closure flow rate while operating at 10 pounds per square inch gauge (psig); removed the requirement to prevent installation of EFO's beneath hard surfaces; require operators to notify customers of the option to install EFO's before the installation or replacement of service lines; require that all operators must participate in a qualified one-call system; added transmission or distribution of gas containing H2S to reflect the exact language in Arkansas Code Annotated 23-15-203(3); removed atmospheric corrosion requirements for offshore facilities. Appendix A revised to incorporate certain versions of The American Society for Testing and Materials Standards by reference. Part 199 revised to clarify terms; added requirements for a Substance Abuse Professional ("SAP"). Complete republication of the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code.
00-312-R	08/26/04	4	Part 190.15 revised to include falsification of paperwork as probable violation. Part 192.17 revised to allow the use of a certified letter for notification of probable violation. New Subpart N - Operator Qualification added. Minor changes to Subpart I and M. Complete republication of the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code.
04-088-R	08/26/04	3	Adopted Federal Office of Pipeline Safety Amendments 192-86A , 192-89, 192-89A, 192-93, 192-95, 199-19 and 199-21.

PREFACE

ARKANSAS GAS PIPELINE CODE

On August 12, 1968, the United States Congress passed Public Law 90-481, better known as the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968. This Act authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to administer this law, develop standards and to regulate enforcement of such standards for the design, installation, inspection, testing, construction, extension, operation, replacement and maintenance of pipeline facilities. Enacted on July 5, 1994, Public Law 103-272 revised, codified, and enacted the provisions of the Act without substantive change as Chapter 601 of Title 49, United States Code. Title 49 U.S.C 60105 authorizes a state to regulate these minimum standards under certification to the Secretary of Transportation, providing certain provisions are met by each state.

On March 15, 1971, the State Legislature of Arkansas enacted Act 285 into law. This Act, known as the Arkansas Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1971, authorized the Arkansas Public Service Commission to administer a state program pertaining to the design, installation, inspection, testing, construction, extension, operation, replacement and maintenance of pipeline facilities used to transport natural gas. The Pipeline Safety Office was established and tasked with the responsibility of developing and implementing this program. Act 285 is far reaching and affects directly or indirectly persons who distribute or use natural gas.

As long as natural gas flows through a closed controlled system, it remains an efficient, inexpensive and safe servant. However, when it escapes from its pipes, gas can turn on man violently and quickly. In passing the Arkansas Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act, the Arkansas Legislature intended to provide laws and standards which assured that these systems would continue to be operated in a safe manner and thereby reduce the possibility of gas escaping from its closed system. The objective of the pipeline safety program within Arkansas is to keep the gas confined to a closed, controlled system. This is best accomplished by requiring gas companies, operators of gas systems and all persons who install natural gas pipelines to install and maintain them, using only authorized materials and procedures and to comply with standards designed to ensure continuing quality of operation and maintenance.

These procedures and standards adopted by the Arkansas Public Service Commission, as authorized by Act 285, are known as the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code. This Code is a mandatory requirement under state law and non-compliance by any person(s) engaging in the transportation of gas or who owns or operates pipeline facilities, is subject to a civil penalty, not to exceed $25,000 for each violation for each day that such violation persists, except that the maximum civil penalty shall not exceed $500,000 for any related series of violations. The law also provides authority for the Commission to file suit to restrain violations of the Code, including the restraint of transportation of gas or the operation of a pipeline facility.

The Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code is comprised of Parts 190, Enforcement Procedures; 191, Annual and Incident Reports; 192, Minimum Safety Standards; and 199, Drug and Alcohol Testing. The paragraphs in Parts 191, 192, and 199 correspond to the paragraph numbers of Parts 191, 192, and 199 of Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Minimum Federal Safety Standards.

DEFINITIONS

DEFINITIONS OF WORDS/PHRASES USED IN THE ARKANSAS GAS PIPELINE CODE

"Abandoned" means permanently removed from service.

"Administrator" means the Administrator of the Research and Special Programs Administration or any person to whom authority in the matter concerned has been delegated by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation.

"Business District" means a location where gas mains are utilized to serve customers that are predominately commercial in nature, and where the street and/or sidewalk paving generally extends from the centerline of a thoroughfare to the established building line on either side.

"Change" to a segment of pipeline means a physical change in the pipeline or significant changes in operating pressure.

"Commission" means Arkansas Public Service Commission or any person whom the Commission has delegated authority in the matter concerned.

"Customer" meter means the meter that measures the transfer of gas from an operator to a consumer.

"Distribution Line" means a pipeline other than a gathering or transmission line.

"Gas" means natural, manufactured, liquefied natural, flammable gas or gas which is toxic or corrosive.

"Gathering Line" means a pipeline that transports gas from a current production facility to a transmission line or main.

"High Pressure Distribution System" means a distribution system in which the gas pressure in the main is higher than the pressure provided to the customer.

"Key Valves" means shut off valves in a distribution system or transmission line which may be necessary to isolate segments of a system or line for emergency purposes.

"Line Section" means a continuous run of transmission line between adjacent compressor stations, between a compressor station and storage facilities, between a compressor station and a block valve, or between adjacent block valves.

"Listed Specification" means a specification listed in Section 1 of Appendix B.

"Low-Pressure Distribution System" means a distribution system in which the gas pressure in the main is substantially the same as the pressure provided to the customer.

"Main" means a distribution line that serves as a common source of supply for more than one service line.

"Master Meter System" means a pipeline system for distributing gas within, but not limited to, a definable area, such as a mobile home park, housing project, or apartment complex, where the operator purchases metered gas from an outside source for resale through a gas distribution pipeline system. The gas distribution pipeline system supplies the ultimate consumer who either purchases the gas directly through a meter or by other means, such as rents.

"Maximum Actual Operating Pressure" means the maximum pressure that occurs during normal operations over a period of one year.

"Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure (MAOP)" means the maximum pressure at which a pipeline or segment of a pipeline may be operated under this code.

"Mobile Home Park" means two or more mobile homes located on a contiguous tract of land.

"Municipality" means a city, county or any other political subdivision of the State of Arkansas.

"Operator" means a person who:

(1) Engages in the transportation of gas; or

(2) Operates a distribution system within a mobile home park, public housing authority, or multiple building complex. The system is not owned, nor the responsibility of a public or municipal utility, and is used to transport gas from a master meter or a public/municipal utility main to consumers who may or may not be metered. Gas is not consumed solely by the owner/operator.

"Person" means any individual, firm, joint venture, partnership, corporation, association, State, municipality, cooperative association, or joint stock association, and includes any trustee, receiver, assignee, or personal representative thereof.

"Petroleum Gas" means propane, propylene, butane (normal butane or isobutanes), and butylene (including isomers), or mixtures composed predominantly of these gases, having a vapor pressure not exceeding 208 psig (1434 kPa) gage at 100°F (38°C).

"Pipe" means any pipe or tubing used in the transportation of gas, including pipe-type holders.

"Pipeline" or "Pipeline System" means all parts of those physical facilities through which gas moves in transportation, including, but not limited to, pipe, valves and other appurtenance attached to pipe, compressor units, metering stations, regulator stations, delivery stations, holders, and fabricated assemblies.

"Pipeline Facilities" includes without limitation, new and existing pipe, pipe rights-of-way, and any equipment, facility or building used in the transportation of gas or the treatment of gas during the course of transportation, including any facility that removes hydrogen sulfide from gas.

"Service Line" means a distribution line that transports gas from a common source of supply to an individual customer, to two adjacent or adjoining residential or small commercial customers, or to multiple residential or small commercial customers served through a meter header or manifold. A service line ends at the outlet of the customer meter or at the connection to a customer's piping, whichever is further downstream, or at the connection to customer piping if there is no meter.

"Service Regulator" means the device on a service line that controls the pressure of gas delivered from a higher pressure to the pressure provided to the customer. A service regulator may serve one customer or multiple customers through a meter header or manifold.

"SMYS" means specified minimum yield strength, and is:

(1) For steel pipe manufactured in accordance with a listed specification, the yield strength specified as a minimum in that specification; or

(2) For steel pipe manufactured in accordance with an unknown or unlisted specification, the yield strength determined in accordance with paragraph 192.107(b).

"System" means all pipeline facilities used by a particular operator in the transportation of gas, including, but not limited to line pipe, valves and other appurtenances connected to line pipe, compressor units, fabricated assemblies associated with compressor units, metering (including customers' meters) and delivery stations, and fabricated assemblies in metering and delivery stations.

"Test Failure" means a break or rupture that occurs during strength proof testing of transmission or gathering lines that are of such magnitude as to require repair before continuation of the test.

"Transmission Line" means a pipeline other than a gathering line that:

(1) Transports gas from a gathering line or storage facility to a distribution center, storage facility, or large volume customer that is not downstream from a distribution center. A large volume customer may receive similar volumes of gas as a distribution center, and includes factories, power plants, and institutional users of gas.

(2) Operates at a hoop stress of 20 percent or more of SMYS; or

(3) Transports gas within a storage field.

"Transportation of Gas" means the gathering, transmission or distribution of gas by pipeline or the storage of gas in or affecting interstate, intrastate, or foreign commerce.

PART 190 -PIPELINE SAFETY ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURES

SUBPART A -GENERAL

190.1 Purpose.

This part prescribes procedures utilized by the Arkansas Public Service Commission in carrying out its responsibilities regarding pipeline safety under the Arkansas Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1971 (Act 285 of 1971, as amended; Ark. Code Ann. § 23-15-201 - 23-15-216 ). Any conflict between the Commission's Rules and Regulations and the Arkansas Statutes shall be resolved in favor of the statutes.

190.3 Service.

Each show cause order issued under this part shall be served in accordance with the current provisions of the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure and Ark. Code Ann. § 23-2-405.

190.5 Subpoenas, Witness Fees.

The issuance of subpoenas and payment of Witness fees shall be in accordance with the current provisions of the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure and Ark. Code Ann. § 23-2-402 and § 23-2-414.

190.7 Extension of Time.

In those instances when the actions necessary to correct documented deficiencies will exceed the time limit given in the notice of probable violation, an operator may request an extension of time in order to effect compliance. Each request must detail the reason(s) why compliance cannot be accomplished by the original suspense date, and the date the operator believes the necessary compliance actions can be completed. If the Commission finds the request to be reasonable a new suspense date may be established.

190.9 Petitions for Finding or Approval.

(a) In circumstances where a rule contained in Part 192 authorizes the Administrator to make a finding or approval, an operator may petition the Administrator for such a finding or approval.

(b) Each petition must refer to the rule authorizing the action sought and contain information or arguments that justify the action. Unless otherwise specified, no public proceeding is held on a petition before it is granted or denied. After a petition is received, the Administrator or participating state agency notifies the petitioner of the disposition of the petition or, if the request requires more extensive consideration or additional information or comments are requested and delay is expected, of the date by which action will be taken. For operators seeking a finding or approval involving intrastate pipeline transportation, petitions must be sent to: Pipeline Safety, Arkansas Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 400, Little Rock, Arkansas 72203-0400.

(c) All petitions must be received at least 90 days prior to the date by which the operator requests the finding or approval to be made.

(d) The Administrator will make all findings or approvals of petitions initiated under this section. Pipeline Safety, Arkansas Public Service Commission, upon receiving petitions initiated under this paragraph, shall provide the Administrator a written recommendation as to the disposition of any petition received by Pipeline Safety. Where the Administrator does not reverse or modify a recommendation made by Pipeline Safety within 10 business days of its receipt, the recommended disposition shall constitute the Administrator's decision on the petition.

190.11 Waivers.

If unusual difficulty results from implementing a safety standard in Part 192, application may be made to the Commission for exemption from a particular standard. The application for exemption hall be accompanied by a thorough justification for requested actions.

SUBPART B -ENFORCEMENT

190.15 Inspections, Production of Records, and Accident Investigations.

(a) The Commission may conduct inspections and investigate accidents in accordance with Ark. Code Ann. § 23-15-207. Operators are required to provide records requested by the Commission pursuant to Ark. Code Ann. § 23-15-206(b) for any inspection or accident investigation.

(b) If an inspection or accident investigation indicates that a probable violation exists, or if an operator falsifies records, or fails to provide any record(s) requested by the Commission, a notice of probable violation will be sent to the operator. For the purposes of this rule, a probable violation for failing to provide records shall arise only from failure to provide records required by paragraph 190.15 (a), in the form in which they are maintained in the ordinary course of business. Consistent with the requirements of Rule 3.05 and Section 13 of the Arkansas Public Service Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure, the operator shall be allowed a minimum of 15 days to respond after service of any such request for records. For purposes of this rule, "falsifying records" shall mean the original entry or subsequent modification of any official record with the intent to mislead or deceive a third party later examining the document."

(c) If an accident investigation results in the commission staff making recommendations in a formal accident investigation report, the operator will make written response to those recommendations within the time frame specified in the report.

190.17 Notice of Probable Violation.

(a) The Commission begins enforcement proceedings by serving a notice of probable violation of the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code or any order issued thereunder. This notification shall advise the operator that a written response is required and that failure to respond may result in enforcement action in accordance with paragraph 190.19.

(b) A notice of probable violation issued under this section shall include:

(1) Statement of the provisions of the laws, regulations or orders which the respondent is alleged to have violated and a statement of the evidence upon which the allegations are based;

(2) Notice of response options available to the respondent.

(c) The notice of probable violation shall normally be in the form of an inspection report mailed to the person charged. However, the notice of probable violation may be served in the form of a certified letter or show cause order.

(d) A notice of probable violation for failure to produce or falsification of records may be served in the form of a certified letter or show cause order. Falsification of records may also be referred to the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Transportation for investigation and prosecution under applicable provisions of federal criminal law.

190.19 Show Cause Orders.

The Commission may issue a show cause order notifying the owner or operator of a probable violation and advising the person to correct it or be subject to enforcement action. The severity of the probable violation shall be the determining factor in the type of notice issued by the Commission. A show cause order shall be served as provided in Paragraph 190.3.

190.21 Response Options.

An operator has 20 calendar days from the date of receipt of a show cause order to respond. The operator may:

(a) Submit written response to the allegations. The written response may contain one of the following:

(1) Evidence to rebut the allegations of the show cause order; or

(2) Actions taken to achieve compliance; or

(3) A request for an extension of time to correct the alleged probable violation(s).

(b) Request a hearing.

(1) A request for a hearing shall be in writing and shall conform to the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure.

Failure of the operator to respond in a timely manner to a show cause order under either subsection (a) or (b) of this section shall constitute a waiver of the operator's right to contest the allegations. The Commission may then act on the basis of the case file compiled by the Staff.

190.23 Case File.

The Case File compiled by the Staff after the issuance of a show cause order shall contain the following information:

(a) The inspection reports and any other evidence of alleged violations;

(b) A copy of the show cause order;

(c) Any material submitted by the operator pursuant to Paragraph 190.21(a);

(d) The evaluation of the Staff and their recommendations for final action.

190.25 Final Order.

The Commission shall issue a final order at the conclusion of any proceedings initiated by a show cause order. The final order shall include:

(a) Findings of fact addressing all material issues and conclusions of law;

(b) A statement of the amount of the civil penalty, if any, and the procedures for the payment of the penalty; and

(c) A statement of the necessary actions to be taken by the operator and a schedule for completion of those actions, if any are found to be necessary.

190.27 Petitions for Reconsideration.

Subsequent to a final order, the operator may request a rehearing pursuant to Ark. Code Ann. § 23-2-422, and the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure.

190.29 Civil Penalties.

The Commission may assess civil penalties for violations of the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code not to exceed twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) for each violation for each day that the violation persists, except that the maximum civil penalty shall not exceed five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) for any related series of violations. Before assessing a civil penalty, the Commission shall follow the procedures established by Paragraphs 190.19 and 190.25.

190.31 Payment of Civil Penalties.

Any civil penalty not promptly paid to the Commission shall be recovered with interest thereon from the date of the order in a civil action brought by the Commission

SUBPART C -SPECIFIC RELIEF

190.41 Hazardous Conditions.

(a) Whenever the Commission finds a particular facility to be hazardous to life or property, it shall be empowered to require the person operating such facility to take such corrective measures necessary to remove such hazards.

(b) Where the operator contests the corrective measures imposed by the Commission, the operator may request a hearing which shall be made in writing and shall conform to the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure. A request for a hearing under this paragraph shall not act to stay the corrective measures initially required by the Commission.

190.43 Injunctive Action.

The Commission may restrain violations of the Arkansas Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1971, as amended, by seeking injunctive relief pursuant to Arkansas Code Ann. § 23-15-212.

PART 191 -TRANSPORTATION OF NATURAL AND OTHER GAS BY PIPELINE:

ANNUAL REPORTS AND INCIDENT REPORTS

191.1 Scope.

This part prescribes requirements for the reporting of incidents, safety-related conditions, and annual pipeline summary data, and applies to all persons engaged in the transportation of gas. Leaks/ignition which were intentionally caused by the operator are not reportable. This part does not apply to leaks and test failures that occur in the gathering of gas in rural areas outside of any incorporated or unincorporated city, town or village, or any designated residential or commercial area such as a subdivision, business or shopping center, or community development; however, it shall apply to the gathering, transmission or distribution of gas containing 100 or more parts-per-million of hydrogen sulfide from the wellhead through any pipeline, rural or non-rural, to and through any pipeline facility that removes hydrogen sulfide. For those lines that are jurisdictional solely on the basis of their hydrogen sulfide content, the reports required by this part shall be submitted to the Arkansas Public Service Commission, Office of Pipeline Safety, and not to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

191.5 Telephonic Notice of Certain Incidents.

(a) At the earliest practicable moment following discovery, each operator shall give notice in accordance with Paragraph (b) of this section of any natural gas incident involving a release of gas from a pipeline that resulted in:

(1) A death or personal injury requiring in-patient hospitalization; or

(2) Estimated property damage, including cost of lost gas, of the operator or others, or both, of $50,000 or more; or

(3) An event that is significant, in the judgement of the operator, even though it did not meet the criteria of subparagraphs (l) or (2).

Incidents reportable under Subparagraphs (1), (2), or (3) above, include incidents occurring on all pipelines up to the outlet side of the customer's meter and must be reported at the earliest practicable moment unless there is evidence that the leak probably did not occur on pipelines used by the operator in the transportation of gas, in which case, notice may be delayed until determination is made.

(b) Each notice required by Paragraph (a) of this section shall be made by telephone to 800-424-8802 (in Washington, D.C., 267-2675) and shall include the following information:

(1) Names of operator and person making report and their telephone numbers.

(2) The location of the incident.

(3) The time of the incident.

(4) The number of fatalities and personal injuries, if any.

(5) All other significant facts that are known by the operator that are relevant to the cause of the incident or extent of the damages.

(c) In addition to the telephonic notice required in Paragraph (b) of this section, notice will also be made by telephone to 682-5705 or 682-5706 during normal business hours Monday through Friday. Reports during other than normal hours will be made to Pipeline Safety personnel in accordance with instructions issued by Pipeline Safety, Public Service Commission.

(d) In addition to the requirements of Paragraph (a) of this section, all as related incidents which result in personal injury requiring out-patient treatment and/or property damage, including cost of lost gas, totaling $5,000 but less than $50,000, shall be telephonically reported to the Commission as required by Paragraph (c) above.

191.7 Addressee for Written Reports.

(a) Each written report required by this part, with the exception of the "Safety-Related Condition Report", will be made to Pipeline Safety, Arkansas Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 400, Little Rock, Arkansas 72203-0400. These will be submitted in duplicate.

(b) The Safety-Related Condition Reports required by paragraphs 191.23 and 191.25 will be submitted directly to: Information Resources Manager, Office of Pipeline Safety, Research and Special Programs Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, Room 2335, 400 Seventh Street SW, Washington, DC 20590. A copy of these reports must be submitted concurrently to the Pipeline Safety Office, Arkansas Public Service Commission.

191.9 Distribution System: Incident Report.

(a) Each operator of a distribution pipeline system shall submit Department of Transportation Form RSPA F7100.1 as soon as practicable but not more than 20 days after detection of an incident required to be reported under Paragraph 191.5(a) or (d).

(b) When additional relevant information is obtained after the report is submitted under Paragraph (a) of this section, the operator shall make supplementary reports as deemed necessary with a clear reference by date and subject to the original report.

(c) The incident report required by this section need not be submitted with respect to master meter systems or LNG facilities.

191.11 Distribution System: Annual Report.

(a) Except as provided in Paragraph (b) of this section, each operator of a distribution system shall submit an annual report for that system on Department of Transportation Form RSPA F7100.1-1. This report must be submitted for the preceding calendar year no later than February 15 of each year.

(b) The annual report required by this section need not be submitted with respect to:

(1) Petroleum gas systems which serve fewer than 100 customers from a single source; or

(2) Master meter systems; or

(3) LNG facilities.

191.13 Distribution Systems Reporting Transmission Pipelines: Trans-mission or Gathering Systems Reporting Distribution Pipelines.

Each operator, primarily engaged in gas distribution, who also operates gas transmission or gathering pipelines shall submit separate reports for these pipelines as required by Paragraphs 191.15 and 191.17. Each operator, primarily engaged in gas transmission or gathering, who also operates gas distribution pipelines shall submit separate reports for these pipelines as required by Paragraphs 191.9 and 191.11.

191.15 Transmission and Gathering Systems: Incident Report.

(a) Each operator of a transmission system or a gathering system subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission, shall submit Department of Transportation Form RSPA F7100.2 as soon as practicable but not more than 20 days after detection of an incident required to be reported under Paragraph 191.5(a) or (d).

(b) The incident report required by Paragraph (a) of this section need not be submitted with respect to LNG facilities.

(c) When additional relevant information is obtained after the report is submitted under Paragraph (a) of this section, the operator shall make supplementary reports as deemed necessary with a clear reference by date and subject to the original report.

191.17 Transmission and Gathering Systems: Annual Report.

(a) Each operator of a transmission system or a gathering system subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission shall submit an annual report on Department of Transportation Form RSPA F7100.2-1. This report must be submitted for the preceding calendar year, not later than February 15 of each year.

(b) The annual report required by Paragraph (a) of this section need not be submitted with respect to LNG facilities.

191.19 Report Forms.

Copies of the prescribed report forms are available without charge upon request from the addresses given in Paragraph 191.7. Additional copies in this prescribed format may be reproduced and used if in the same size and kind of paper. In addition, the information required by these forms may be submitted by any other means that is acceptable to the Administrator.

191.23 Reporting Safety-Related Conditions.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, each operator shall report in accordance with paragraph 191.25 the existence of any of the following safety-related conditions involving facilities in service:

(1) In the case of a pipeline (other than an LNG facility) that operates at a hoop stress of 20 percent or more of its specified minimum yield strength, general corrosion that has reduced the wall thickness to less than that required for the maximum allowable operating pressure, and localized corrosion pitting to a degree where leakage might result.

(2) Unintended movement or abnormal loading by environmental causes, such as an earthquake, landslide, or flood, that impairs the serviceability of a pipeline or the structural integrity or reliability of an LNG facility that contains, controls or processes gas or LNG.

(3) Any crack or other material defect that impairs the structural integrity or reliability of an LNG facility that contains, controls or processes gas or LNG.

(4) Any material defect or physical damage that impairs the serviceability of a pipeline that operates at a hoop stress of 20 percent or more of its specified minimum yield strength.

(5) Any malfunction or operating error that causes the pressure of a pipeline or LNG facility that contains or processes gas or LNG to rise above its maximum allowable operating pressure (or working pressure for LNG facilities) plus the build-up allowed for operation of pressure limiting or control devices.

(6) A leak in a pipeline or LNG facility that contains or processes gas or LNG that constitutes an emergency.

(7) Inner tank leakage, ineffective insulation, or frost heave that impairs the structural integrity of an LNG storage tank.

(8) Any safety-related condition that could lead to an imminent hazard and causes (either directly or indirectly by remedial action of the operator), for purposes other than abandonment, a 20 percent or more reduction in operating pressure or shutdown of operation of a pipeline or an LNG facility that contains or processes gas or LNG.

(b) A report is not required for any safety-related condition that:

(1) Exists on a master meter system or a customer-owned service line;

(2) Is an incident or results in an incident before the deadline for filing the safety-related condition report;

(3) Exists on a pipeline (other than an LNG facility) that is more than 220 yards (200 meters) from any building intended for human occupancy or outdoor place of assembly, except that reports are required for conditions within the right-of-way of an active railroad, paved road, street, or highway; or

(4) Is corrected by repair or replacement in accordance with applicable safety standards before the deadline for filing the safety-related condition report, except that reports are required for conditions under paragraph (a)(1) of this section other than localized corrosion pitting on an effectively coated and cathodically protected pipeline.

191.25 Filing Safety-Related Condition Reports.

(a) Each report of a safety-related condition under paragraph 191.23(a) must be filed (received by the Associate Administrator, OPS) in writing within 5 working days (not including Saturday, Sunday, or Federal holidays) after the day a representative of the operator first determines that the condition exists, but not later than 10 working days after the day a representative of the operator discovers the condition. Separate conditions may be described in a single report if they are closely related. Reports may be transmitted by facsimile at (202) 366-7128.

(b) The report must be headed "Safety-Related Condition Report" and provide the following information:

(1) Name and principal address of operator.

(2) Date of report.

(3) Name, job title, and business telephone number of person submitting the report.

(4) Name, job title, and business telephone number of person who determined that the condition exists.

(5) Date condition was discovered and date condition was first determined to exist.

(6) Location of condition, with reference to the State (and town, city, or county) or offshore site, and as appropriate, nearest street address, offshore platform, survey station number, milepost, landmark, or name of pipeline.

(7) Description of the condition, including circumstances leading to its discovery, any significant effects of the condition on safety, and the name of the commodity transported or stored.

(8) The corrective action taken (including reduction of pressure or shutdown) before the report is submitted and the planned follow-up or future corrective action, including the anticipated schedule for starting and concluding such action.

PART 192 -TRANSPORTATION OF NATURAL AND OTHER GAS BY PIPELINE:

MINIMUM SAFETY STANDARDS

SUBPART A -GENERAL

192.1 Scope.

(a) Part 192 prescribes minimum safety requirements for pipeline facilities and the transportation of gas within the State of Arkansas. Requirements of the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code shall take precedence over any other requirements pertaining to construction, operation and maintenance of gas facilities under the jurisdiction of the Arkansas Public Service Commission.

(b) This part does not apply to gathering of gas in rural areas outside of any incorporated or unincorporated city, town or village and any designated residential or commercial area such as a subdivision, business or shopping center; however, it shall apply to the gathering, transmission or distribution of gas containing 100 or more parts-per-million of hydrogen sulfide from the wellhead through any pipeline, rural or non-rural, to and through any pipeline facility that removes hydrogen sulfide.

192.5 Class Locations.

(a) This section classifies pipeline locations for the purposes of this part. The following criteria apply to classifications under this section.

(1) A "class location unit" is an area that extends 220 yards (200 meters) on either side of the centerline of any continuous 1-mile (1.6 kilometers) length of pipeline.

(2) Each separate dwelling unit in a multiple dwelling unit building is counted as a separate building intended for human occupancy.

(b) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, pipeline locations are classified as follows:

(1) A Class 1 location is any class location unit that has 10 or fewer buildings intended for human occupancy.

(2) A Class 2 location is any class location unit that has more than 10 but fewer than 46 buildings intended for human occupancy.

(3) A Class 3 location is:

(i) Any class location unit that has 46 or more buildings intended for human occupancy; or

(ii) An area where the pipeline lies within 100 yards (91 meters) of either a building or a small, well-defined outside area (such as a playground, recreation area, outdoor theater, or other place of public assembly) that is occupied by 20 or more persons on at least 5 days a week for 10 weeks in any 12 month period. (The days and weeks need not be consecutive.)

(4) A Class 4 location is any class location unit where buildings with four or more stories above ground are prevalent.

(c) The boundaries of Class locations 2,3, and 4 may be adjusted as follows:

(1) A Class 4 location ends 220 yards (200 meters) from the nearest building with four or more stories above ground.

(2) When all buildings intended for human occupancy within a Class 2 or 3 location are in a single cluster, the class location ends 220 yards (200 meters) from the nearest building in the cluster.

192.7 Incorporation by Reference.

(a) Any documents or portions thereof incorporated by reference in this part are included in this part as though set out in full. When only a portion of a document is referenced, the remainder is not incorporated in this subpart.

(b) All incorporated materials are available for inspection in the Research and Special Programs Administration, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, and at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, DC. These materials have been approved for incorporation by reference by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. In addition, the incorporated materials are available from the respective organizations listed in Appendix A to this part.

(c) The full titles for the publications incorporated by reference in this part are provided in Appendix A to this part. Numbers in parentheses indicate applicable editions. Earlier editions of documents listed or editions of documents formerly listed in previous editions of Appendix A may be used for materials and components manufactured, designed or installed in accordance with those earlier editions or earlier documents at the time they were listed. The user must refer to the appropriate previous edition of 49 CFR for a listing of the earlier listed editions or documents.

192.9 Gathering Lines.

Except as provided in §§192.1 and 192.150, and in subpart O, each operator of a gathering line must comply with the requirements of this part applicable to transmission lines.

192.11 Petroleum Gas Systems.

(a) Each plant that supplies petroleum gas by pipeline to a natural gas distribution system must meet the requirements of this part and a 58 and 59.

(b) Each pipeline system subject to this part that transports only petroleum gas or petroleum gas/air mixtures must meet the requirements of this part and ANSI/NFPA 58 and 59

(c) In the event of a conflict between this part and ANSI/NFPA 58 and 59, ANSI/NFPA 58 and 59 prevail.

192.13 General.

(a) No person may operate a segment of pipeline that is readied for service after March 12, 1971, unless:

(1) The pipeline has been designed, installed, constructed, initially inspected, and initially tested in accordance with this part; or

(2) The pipeline qualified for use under this part in accordance with Paragraph 192.14.

(b) No person may operate a segment of pipeline that is replaced, relocated, or otherwise changed after November 12, 1970, unless that replacement, relocation, or change has been made in accordance with this part.

(c) Each operator shall maintain, modify as appropriate, and follow the plans, procedures, and programs that it is required to establish under this part.

192.14 Conversion to Service Subject to this Part.

(a) A steel pipeline previously used in service not subject to this part qualifies for use under this part if the operator prepares and follows a written procedure to carry out the following requirements:

(1) The design, construction, operation, and maintenance history of the pipeline must be reviewed and, where sufficient historical records are not available, appropriate tests must be performed to determine if the pipeline is in a satisfactory condition for safe operation.

(2) The pipeline right-of-way, all above-ground segments of the pipeline, and appropriately selected underground segments must be visually inspected for physical defects and operating conditions which reasonably could be expected to impair the strength or tightness of the pipeline.

(3) All known unsafe defects and conditions must be corrected in accordance with this part.

(4) The pipeline must be tested in accordance with Subpart J of this part to substantiate the maximum allowable operating pressure permitted by Subpart L of this part.

(b) Each operator must keep for the life of the pipeline a record of investigations, tests, repairs, replacements, and alterations made under the requirements of Paragraph (a) of this section.

192.15 Rules of Regulatory Construction.

(a) As used in this part:

"Includes" means including but not limited to.

"May" means "is permitted to" or "is authorized to".

"May not" means "is not permitted to" or "is not authorized to".

"Shall" is used in the mandatory and imperative sense.

(b) In this part:

(1) Words importing the singular include the plural;

(2) Words importing the plural include the singular; and

(3) Words importing the masculine gender include the feminine.

192.16 Customer Notification.

(a) This section applies to each operator of a service line who does not maintain the customer's buried piping up to entry of the first building downstream, or, if the customer's buried piping does not enter a building, up to the principal gas utilization equipment or the first fence (or wall) that surrounds that equipment. For the purpose of this section, "customer's buried piping" does not include branch lines that serve yard lanterns, pool heaters, or other types of secondary equipment. Also, "maintain" means monitor for corrosion according to Paragraph 192.465 if the customer's buried piping is metallic, survey for leaks according to Paragraph 192.723, and if an unsafe condition is found, shut off the flow of gas, advise the customer of the need to repair the unsafe condition, or repair the unsafe condition.

(b) Each operator shall notify each customer once in writing of the following information:

(1) The operator does not maintain the customer's buried piping.

(2) If the customer's buried piping is not maintained, it may be subject to the potential hazards of corrosion and leakage.

(3) Buried gas piping should be-

(i) Periodically inspected for leaks;

(ii) Periodically inspected for corrosion if the buried piping is metallic; and

(iii) Repaired if any unsafe condition is discovered.

(4) When excavating near buried gas piping, the piping should be located in advance, and the excavation done by hand.

(5) The operator (if applicable), plumbing contractors, and heating contractors can assist in locating, inspecting, and repairing the customer's buried piping.

(c) Each operator shall notify each customer not later than August 14, 1996, or 90 days after the customer first receives gas at a particular location, whichever is later. However, operators of master meter systems may continuously post a general notice in a prominent location frequented by customers.

(d) Each operator must make the following records available for inspection by the Administrator or a State agency participating under 49 U.S.C. 60105 or 60106:

(1) A copy of the notice currently in use; and

(2) Evidence that notices have been sent to customers within the previous 3 years.

192.17 Filing of Operation, Inspection and Maintenance Plan.

Each operator shall file with Pipeline Safety, Public Service Commission, a plan for operation, inspection and maintenance of each pipeline facility which he owns or operates. In addition, each change to this plan must be filed with Pipeline Safety within 20 days after the change is made. Once filed, this plan becomes a part of these standards as though incorporated and must be followed by the operator.

SUBPART B -MATERIALS

192.51 Scope.

This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for the selection and qualification of pipe and components for use in pipelines.

192.53 General.

Materials for pipe and components must be:

(a) Able to maintain the structural integrity of the pipeline under temperature and other environmental conditions that may be anticipated;

(b) Chemically compatible with any gas that they transport and with any other material in the pipeline with which they are in contact; and

(c) Qualified in accordance with the applicable requirements of this subpart.

192.55 Steel Pipe.

(a) New steel pipe is qualified for use under this part if:

(1) It was manufactured in accordance with a listed specification;

(2) It meets the requirements of:

(i) Section II of Appendix B to this part; or

(ii) If it was manufactured before November 12, 1970, either Section II or III of Appendix B to this part; or

(3) It is used in accordance with Paragraph (c) or (d) of this section.

(b) Used steel pipe is qualified for use under this part if:

(1) It was manufactured in accordance with a listed specification and it meets the requirements of Paragraph II-C of Appendix B to this part;

(2) It meets the requirements of:

(i) Section II of Appendix B to this part; or

(ii) It was manufactured before November 12, 1970, either Section II or III of Appendix B to this part; or

(3) It has been used in an existing line of the same or higher pressure and meets the requirements of Paragraph II-C of Appendix B to this part; or

(4) It is used in accordance with Paragraph (c) of this section.

(c) New or used steel pipe may be used at a pressure resulting in a hoop stress of less than 6,000 psi (41 MPa) where no close coiling or close bending is to be done, if visual examination indicates that the pipe is in good condition and that it is free of split seams and other defects that would cause leakage. If it is to be welded, steel pipe that has not been manufactured to a listed specification must also pass the weldability tests prescribed in Paragraph II-B of Appendix B to this part.

(d) Steel pipe that has not been previously used may be used as replacement pipe in a segment of pipeline if it has been manufactured prior to November 12, 1970, in accordance with the same specification as the pipe used in constructing that segment of pipeline.

(e) New steel pipe that has been cold expanded must comply with the mandatory provisions of API Specification 5L.

192.57 (Removed and Reserved).

192.59 Plastic Pipe.

(a) New plastic pipe is qualified for use under this part if:

(1) It is manufactured in accordance with a listed specification; and

(2) It is resistant to chemicals with which contact may be anticipated.

(b) Used plastic pipe is qualified for use under this part if:

(1) It was manufactured in accordance with a listed specification;

(2) It is resistant to chemicals with which contact may be anticipated;

(3) It has been used only in natural gas service;

(4) Its dimensions are still within the tolerances of the specification to which it was manufactured; and

(5) It is free of visible defects.

(c) For the purpose of Paragraphs (a)(1) and (b)(1) of this section, when a pipe of a diameter included in a listed specification is impractical to use, pipe of a diameter between the sizes included in a listed specification may be used if it:

(1) Meets the strength and design criteria required of pipe included in the listed specification; and

(2) Is manufactured from plastic compounds which meet the criteria for material required of pipe included in that listed specification.

192.61 (Removed and Reserved).

192.63 Marking of Materials.

(a) Except as provided in Paragraph (d) of this section, each valve, fitting, length of pipe, and other component must be marked:

(1) As prescribed in the specification or standard to which it was manufactured, except that thermoplastic fittings must be marked in accordance with ASTM D 2513; or

(2) To indicate size, material, manufacturer, pressure rating, and temperature rating, and as appropriate, type, grade, and model.

(b) Surfaces of pipe and components that are subject to stress from internal pressure may not be field die stamped.

(c) If any item is marked by die stamping, the die must have blunt or rounded edges that will minimize stress concentrations.

(d) Paragraph (a) of this section does not apply to items manufactured before November 12, 1970, that meet all of the following:

(1) The item is identifiable as to type, manufacturer, and model.

(2) Specifications or standards giving pressure, temperature, and other appropriate criteria for the use of items are readily available.

(e) Operators shall reidentify pipe if specification markings are obliterated during the coating and/or wrapping process. This reidentification is not necessary if pipe is immediately installed in a system.

192.65 Transportation of Pipe.

In a pipeline to be operated at a hoop stress of 20 percent or more of SMYS, no operator may use a pipe having an outer diameter to wall thickness ratio of 70 to 1 or more, that is transported by railroad unless:

(a) The transportation is performed in accordance with API RP 5L1.

(b) In the case of pipe transported before November 12, 1970 the pipe is tested in accordance with Subpart J of this part to at least 1.25 times the maximum allowable operating pressure if it is to be installed in a Class 1 location and to at least 1.5 times the maximum allowable operating pressure if it is to be installed in a Class 2, 3, or 4 location. Notwithstanding any shorter time period permitted under Subpart J of this part, the test pressure must be maintained for at least 8 hours.

SUBPART C -PIPE DESIGN

192.101 Scope.

This subpart prescribes the minimum requirements for the design of pipe.

192.103 General.

Pipe must be designed with sufficient wall thickness, or must be installed with adequate protection, to withstand anticipated external pressures and loads that will be imposed on the pipe after installation.

192.105 Design Formula for Steel Pipe.

(a) The design pressure for steel pipe is determined in accordance with the following formula:

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P = Design pressure in pounds per square inch (kPa) gage.

S = Yield strength in pounds per square inch (kPa) determined in accordance with Paragraph 192.107.

D = Nominal outside diameter of the pipe in inches (millimeters).

t = Nominal wall thickness of the pipe in inches (millimeters). If this is unknown, it is determined in accordance with Paragraph 192.109. Additional wall thickness required for concurrent external loads in accordance with Paragraph 192.103 may not be included in computing design pressure.

F = Design factor determined in accordance with Paragraph 192.111.

E = Longitudinal joint factor determined in accordance with Paragraph 192.113.

T = Temperature derating factor determined in accordance with Paragraph 192.115.

(b) If steel pipe that has been subjected to cold expansion to meet the SMYS is subsequently heated, other than by welding or stress relieving as a part of welding, the design pressure is limited to 75 percent of the pressure determined under Paragraph (a) of this section if the temperature of the pipe exceeds 900°F (482°C) at any time or is held above 600°F (316°C) for more than 1 hour.

192.107 Yield Strength (S) for Steel Pipe.

(a) For pipe that is manufactured in accordance with a specification listed in Section I of Appendix B of this part, the yield strength to be used in the design formula in Paragraph 192.105 is the SMYS stated in the listed specification, if that value is known.

(b) For pipe that is manufactured in accordance with a specification not listed in Section I of Appendix B to this part or whose specification or tensile properties are unknown, the yield strength to be used in the design formula in Paragraph 192.105 is one of the following:

(1) If the pipe is tensile tested in accordance with Section II-D of Appendix B to this part, the lower of the following:

(i) 80 percent of the average yield strength determined by the tensile tests.

(ii) The lowest yield strength determined by the tensile tests, but not more than 52,000 psi.

(2) If the pipe is not tensile tested as provided in Subparagraph (b)(1) of this Paragraph, 24,000 p.s.i. (165 MPa).

192.109 Nominal Wall Thickness (t) for Steel Pipe.

(a) If the nominal wall thickness for steel pipe is not known, it is determined by measuring the thickness of each piece of pipe at quarter points on one end.

(b) However, if the pipe is of uniform grade, size, and thickness and there are more than 10 lengths, only 10 percent of the individual lengths, but not less than 10 lengths, need be measured. The thickness of the lengths that are not measured must be verified by applying a gauge set to the minimum thickness found by the measurement. The nominal wall thickness to be used in the design formula in Paragraph 192.105 is the next wall thickness found in commercial specifications that is below the average of all the measurements taken. However, the nominal wall thickness used may not be more than 1.14 times the smallest measurement taken on pipe less than 20 inches (508 millimeters) in outside diameter, nor more than 1.11 times the smallest measurement taken on pipe 20 inches (508 millimeters) or more in outside diameter.

192.111 Design Factor (F) for Steel Pipe.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this section, the design factor to be used in the design formula in Paragraph 192.105 is determined in accordance with the following table:

Class Location	Design Factor (F)
1	0.72
2	0.60
3	0.50
4	0.40

(b) A design factor of 0.60 or less must be used in the design formula in Paragraph 192.105 for steel pipe in Class 1 locations that:

(1) Crosses the right-of-way of an unimproved public road, without a casing;

(2) Crosses without a casing or makes a parallel encroachment on, the right-of-way of either a hard surfaced road, a highway, a public street, or a railroad;

(3) Is supported by a vehicular, pedestrian, railroad, or pipeline bridge; or

(4) Is used in a fabricated assembly, (including separators, mainline valve assemblies, cross-connections, and river crossing headers) or is used within five pipe diameters in any direction from the last fitting of a fabricated assembly, other than a transition piece or an elbow used in place of a pipe bend which is not associated with a fabricated assembly.

(c) For Class 2 locations, a design factor of 0.50, or less, must be used in the design formula in Paragraph 192.105 for uncased steel pipe that crosses the right-of-way of a hard surfaced road, a highway, a public street, or a railroad.

(d) For Class 1 or Class 2 locations, a design factor of 0.50, or less, must be used in the design formula in Paragraph 192.105 for each compressor station, regulator station, and measuring station.

192.113 Longitudinal Joint Factor (E) for Steel Pipe.

The longitudinal joint factor to be used in the design formula in Paragraph 192.105 is determined in accordance with the following table:

Specification	Pipe Class	Longitudinal Joint Factor (E
ASTM A 53	Seamless ...............................................................	......................... 1.00
	Electric resistance welded ....................................	......................... 1.00
	Furnace butt welded ..............................................	......................... 0.60
ASTM A 106 .....................	......... Seamless ...............................................................	......................... 1.00
ASTM A 333/A 333M ......	......... Seamless ...............................................................	......................... 1.00
	Electric resistance welded ....................................	......................... 1.00
ASTM A 381 .....................	......... Double submerged arc welded ..............................	......................... 1.00
ASTM A 671 .....................	.........Electric fusion welded..........................................	......................... 1.00
ASTM A 672 .....................	.........Electric fusion welded..........................................	......................... 1.00
ASTM A 691 .....................	.........Electric fusion welded..........................................	......................... 1.00
API 5L ..............................	......... Seamless ...............................................................	......................... 1.00
	Electric resistance welded ....................................	......................... 1.00
	Electric flash welded ............................................	......................... 1.00
	Submerged arc welded ..........................................	......................... 1.00
	Furnace butt welded ..............................................	......................... 0.60
Other .................................	......... Pipe over 4 inches (102 millimeters) ....................	......................... 0.80
Other .................................	......... Pipe 4 inches (102 millimeters) or less .................	......................... 0.60

If the type of longitudinal joint cannot be determined, the joint factor to be used must not exceed that designated for "Other."

192.115 Temperature Derating Factor (T) for Steel Pipe.

The temperature derating factor to be used in the design formula in Paragraph 192.105 is determined as follows:

Gas Temperature in Degrees Fahrenheit (Celsius)	Temperature Derating Factor (T)
250EF (121EC) or less ..................................	......................... 1.000
300EF (149EC) .............................................	......................... 0.967
350EF (177EC) .............................................	......................... 0.933
400EF (204EC) .............................................	......................... 0.900
450EF (232EC) .............................................	......................... 0.867

For intermediate gas temperatures, the derating factor is determined by interpolation.

192.117 (Removed and Reserved).

192.119 (Removed and Reserved).

192.121 Design of Plastic Pipe.

Subject to the limitations of Paragraph 192.123, the design pressure for plastic pipe is determined in accordance with either of the following formulas:

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P = Design pressure, gauge, kPa (psi).

S = For thermoplastic pipe the long-term hydrostatic strength determined in accordance with the listed specification at a temperature equal to 73°F ( 23°C), 100°F (38°C), 120°F (49°C), or 140°F(60°C): for reinforced thermosetting plastic pipe, 11,000 psi. (75,842 kPa).

T = Specified wall thickness, mm (in).

D = Specified outside diameter, mm (in).

SDR = Standard dimension ratio, the ratio of the average specified outside diameter to the minimum specified wall thickness, corresponding to a value from a common numbering system that was derived from the American National Standards Institute preferred number series 10.

192.123 Design Limitations for Plastic Pipe.

(a) The design pressure may not exceed a gauge pressure of 689 kPa (100 psig.) for plastic pipe used in:

(1) Distribution systems; or

(2) Class 3 and 4 locations.

(b) Plastic pipe may not be used where operating temperature of the pipe will be:

(1) Below -20°F ( -29°C); or below -40°F (-40°C) if all pipe and pipeline components whose operating temperature will be below -20°F ( -29°C) have a temperature rating by the manufacturer consistent with that operating temperature; or

(2) In the case of thermoplastic pipe, above the temperature at which the long-term hydrostatic strength used in the design formula under Paragraph 192.121 is determined, except that in the case of reinforced thermosetting plastic pipe, above 150°F ( 66°C).

(c) The wall thickness for thermoplastic pipe may not be less than 0.062 in. (1.57 millimeters).

(d) The wall thickness for reinforced thermosetting plastic pipe may not be less than that listed in the following table:

Nominal Size in Inches (millimeters	Minimum Wall Thickness in inches (millimeters)
2 (51) ...................................	.................... 0.060 (1.52)
3 (76) ....................................	.................... 0.060 (1.52)
4 (102) .................................	.................... 0.070 (1.78)
6 (152) ..................................	.................... 0.060 (2.54)

192.125 Design of Copper Pipe.

(a) Copper pipe used in mains must have a minimum wall thickness of 0.065 inches (1.65 millimeters) and must be hard drawn.

(b) Copper pipe used in service lines must have wall thickness not less than that indicated in the following table:

Standard Size, inch (millimeter)	Nominal O.D. O.D., inch (millimeter)	Wall Thickness, inch (millimeter) Nominal Tolerance
2 (13) ........	.625 (16) ...........	.040 (1.06)	.0035 (.0889)
e (16) ........	.750 (19) ...........	.042 (1.07)	.0035 (.0889)
: (19) ........	.875 (22) ...........	.045 (1.14)	.004 (.102)
1 (25) ........	1.125 (29) ............	.050 (1.27)	.004 (.102)
1 3 (32) ......	1.375 (35) ...........	.055 (1.40)	.0045 (.1143)
1 2 (38) ......	1.625 (41) ...........	.060 (1.52)	.0045 (.1143)

(c) Copper pipe used in mains and service line may not be used at pressures in excess of 100 psi. (689 kPa) gage.

(d) Copper pipe that does not have an internal corrosion resistant lining may not be used to carry gas that has an average hydrogen sulfide content of more than 0.3 grains/100 ft.³ (6.9/m³) under standard conditions. Standard conditions refers to 60°F and 14.7 psia (15.6°C and one atmosphere).

SUBPART D -DESIGN OF PIPELINE COMPONENTS

192.141 Scope.

This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for the design and installation of pipeline components and facilities. In addition, it prescribes requirements relating to protection against accidental overpressuring.

192.143 General Requirements.

Each component of a pipeline must be able to withstand operating pressures and other anticipated loadings without impairment of its serviceability with unit stresses equivalent to those allowed for comparable material in pipe in the same location and kind of service. However, if design based upon unit stresses is impractical for a particular component, design may be based upon a pressure rating established by the manufacturer by pressure testing that component or a prototype of the component.

192.144 Qualifying Metallic Components.

Notwithstanding any requirement of this subpart which incorporates by reference an edition of a document listed in Appendix A of this part, a metallic component manufactured in accordance with any other edition of that document is qualified for use under this part if:

(a) It can be shown through visual inspection of the cleaned component that no defect exists which might impair the strength or tightness of the component; and

(b) The edition of the document under which the component was manufactured has equal or more stringent requirements for the following as an edition of that document currently or previously listed in Appendix A:

(1) Pressure testing;

(2) Materials; and

(3) Pressure and temperature ratings.

192.145 Valves.

(a) Except for cast iron and plastic valves, each valve must meet the minimum requirements, or equivalent, of API 6D. A valve may not be used under operating conditions that exceed the applicable pressure-temperature ratings contained in those requirements.

(b) Each cast iron and plastic valve must comply with the following:

(1) The valve must have a maximum service pressure rating for temperatures that equal or exceed the maximum service temperature.

(2) The valve must be tested as part of the manufacturing, as follows:

(i) With the valve in the fully open position, the shell must be tested with no leakage to a pressure at least 1.5 times the maximum service rating.

(ii) After the shell test, the seat must be tested to a pressure not less than 1.5 times the maximum service pressure rating. Except for swing check valves, test pressure during the seat test must be applied successively on each side of the closed valve with the opposite side open. No visible leakage is permitted.

(iii) After the last pressure test is completed, the valve must be operated through its full travel to demonstrate freedom from interference.

(c) Each valve must be able to meet the anticipated operating conditions.

(d) No valve having shell components made of ductile iron may be used at pressures exceeding 80 percent of the pressure ratings for comparable steel valves at their listed temperature. However, a valve having shell components made of ductile iron may be used at pressures up to 80 percent of the pressure ratings for comparable steel valves at their listed temperature, if:

(1) The temperature-adjusted service pressure does not exceed 1,000 psi. (7 MPa); and

(2) Welding is not used on any ductile iron component in the fabrication of the valve shells or their assembly.

(e) No valve having pressure containing parts made of ductile iron may be used in the gas pipe components of compressor stations.

192.147 Flanges and Flange Accessories.

(a) Each flange or flange accessory (other than cast iron) must meet the minimum requirements of ASME/ANSI B16.5, MSS SP-44, or the equivalent.

(b) Each flange assembly must be able to withstand the maximum pressure at which the pipeline is to be operated and to maintain its physical and chemical properties at any temperature to which it is anticipated that it might be subjected in service.

(c) Each flange on a flanged joint in cast iron pipe must conform in dimensions, drilling, face and gasket design to ASME/ANSI B16.1 and be cast integrally with the pipe, valve, or fitting.

192.149 Standard Fittings.

(a) The minimum metal thickness of threaded fittings may not be less than specified for the pressures and temperatures in the applicable standards referenced in this part, or their equivalent.

(b) Each steel butt-welding fitting must have pressure and temperature ratings based on stresses for pipe of the same or equivalent material. The actual bursting strength of the fitting must at least equal the computed bursting strength of pipe of the designated material and wall thickness, as determined by a prototype that was tested to at least the pressure required for the pipeline to which it is being added.

192.150 Passage of Internal Inspection Devices

(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, each new transmission line and each line section of a transmission line where the line pipe, valve, fitting, or other line component is replaced must be designed and constructed to accommodate the passage of instrumented internal inspection devices.

(b) This section does not apply to:

(1) Manifolds;

(2) Station piping such as at compressor stations, meter stations, or regulator stations;

(3) Piping associated with storage facilities, other than a continuous run of transmission line between a compressor station and storage facilities;

(4) Cross-overs;

(5) Sizes of pipe for which an instrumented internal inspection device is not commercially available;

(6) Transmission lines, operated in conjunction with a distribution system which are installed in Class 4 locations; and

(7) Other piping that, under Paragraph 190.9 of this chapter, the Administrator finds in a particular case would be impracticable to design and construct to accommodate the passage of instrumented internal inspection devices.

(c) An operator encountering emergencies, construction time constraints or other unforeseen construction problems need not construct a new or replacement segment of a transmission line to meet subparagraph (a) of this paragraph, if the operator determines and documents why an impracticability prohibits compliance with subparagraph (a) of this paragraph. Within 30 days after discovering the emergency or construction problem the operator must petition, under Paragraph 190.9 of this chapter, for approval that design and construction to accommodate passage of instrumented internal inspection devices would be impracticable. If the petition is denied, within 1 year after the date of the notice of denial, the operator must modify that segment to allow passage of instrumented internal inspection devices.

192.151 Tapping.

(a) Each mechanical fitting used to make a hot tap must be designed for at least the operating pressure of the pipeline.

(b) Where a ductile iron pipe is tapped, the extent of full-thread engagement and the need for the use of outside-sealing service connections, tapping saddles, or other fixtures must be determined by service conditions.

(c) Where a threaded tap is made in cast iron or ductile iron pipe, the diameter of the tapped hole may not be more than 25 percent of the nominal diameter of the pipe unless the pipe is reinforced, except that:

(1) Existing taps may be used for replacement service, if they are free of cracks and have good threads; and

(2) A 13 inch (32 millimeters) tap may be made in a 4 inch (102 millimeters) cast iron or ductile iron pipe, without reinforcement. However, in areas where climate, soil, and service conditions may create unusual external stresses on cast iron pipe, unreinforced taps may be used only on 6 inch (152 millimeters) or larger pipe.

192.153 Components Fabricated by Welding.

(a) Except for branch connections and assemblies of standard pipe and fittings joined by circumferential welds, the design pressure of each component fabricated by welding, whose strength cannot be determined, must be established in accordance with paragraph UG-101 of Section VIII, Division 1 of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.

(b) Each prefabricated unit that uses plate and longitudinal seams must be designed, constructed, and tested in accordance with section I, Division 1, or section VIII, Division 2 of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, except for the following:

(1) Regularly manufactured butt-welding fittings.

(2) Pipe that has been produced and tested under a specification listed in Appendix B.

(3) Partial assemblies such as split rings or collars.

(4) Prefabricated units that the manufacturer certifies have been tested to at least twice the maximum pressure to which they will be subjected under the anticipated operating conditions.

(c) Orange-peel bull plugs and orange-peel swages may not be used on pipelines that are to operate at a hoop stress of 20 percent or more of the SMYS of the pipe.

(d) Except for flat closures designed in accordance with Section VIII of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, flat closures and fish tails may not be used on pipe that either operates at 100 psi. (689 kPa) gage, or more, or is more than 3 inches (76 millimeters) nominal diameter.

192.155 Welded Branch Connections.

Each welded branch connection made to pipe in the form of a single connection, or in a header or manifold as a series of connections, must be designed to ensure that the strength of the pipeline system is not reduced, taking into account the stresses in the remaining pipe wall due to the opening in the pipe or header, the shear stresses produced by the pressure acting on the area of the branch opening and any external loadings due to thermal movement, weight, and vibration.

192.157 Extruded Outlets.

Each extruded outlet must be suitable for anticipated service conditions and must be at least equal to the design strength of the pipe and other fittings in the pipeline to which it is attached.

192.159 Flexibility.

Each pipeline must be designed with enough flexibility to prevent thermal expansion or contraction from causing excessive stresses in the pipe or components, excessive bending or unusual loads at joints, or undesirable forces or moments at points of connection to equipment, or at anchorage or guide points.

192.161 Supports and Anchors.

(a) Each pipeline and its associated equipment must have enough anchors or supports to:

(1) Prevent undue strain on connected equipment;

(2) Resist longitudinal forces caused by a bend or offset in the pipe; and

(3) Prevent or damp out excessive vibration.

(b) Each exposed pipeline must have enough supports or anchors to protect the exposed pipe joints from the maximum end force caused by internal pressure and any additional forces caused by temperature expansion or contraction or by the weight of the pipe and its contents.

(c) Each support or anchor on an exposed pipeline must be made of durable, noncombustible material and must be designed and installed as follows:

(1) Free expansion and contraction of the pipeline between supports or anchors may not be restricted.

(2) Provision must be made for the service conditions involved.

(3) Movement of the pipeline may not cause disengagement of the support equipment.

(d) Each support on an exposed pipeline operated at a stress level of 50 percent or more of SMYS must comply with the following:

(1) A structural support may not be welded directly to the pipe.

(2) The support must be provided by a member that completely encircles the pipe.

(3) If an encircling member is welded to a pipe, the weld must be continuous and cover the entire circumference.

(e) Each underground pipeline that is connected to a relatively unyielding line or other fixed object must have enough flexibility to provide for possible movement, or it must have an anchor that will limit the movement of the pipeline.

(f) Each underground pipeline that is being connected to new branches must have a firm foundation for both the header and the branch to prevent detrimental lateral and vertical movement.

192.163 Compressor Stations: Design and Construction.

(a) Location of compressor building. Each main compressor building of a compressor station must be located on property under the control of the operator. It must be far enough away from adjacent property, not under control of the operator, to minimize the possibility of fire being communicated to the compressor building from structures on adjacent property. There must be enough open space around the main compressor building to allow the free movement of fire-fighting equipment.

(b) Building construction. Each building on a compressor station site must be made of noncombustible materials if it contains either:

(1) Pipe more than 2 inches (51 millimeters) in diameter that is carrying gas under pressure; or

(2) Gas handling equipment other than gas utilization equipment used for domestic purposes.

(c) Exits. Each operating floor of a main compressor building must have at least two separated and unobstructed exits located so as to provide a convenient possibility of escape and an unobstructed passage to a place of safety. Each door latch on an exit must be of a type which can be readily opened from the inside without a key. Each swinging door located in an exterior wall must be mounted to swing outward.

(d) Fenced areas. Each fence around a compressor station must have at least two gates located so as to provide a convenient opportunity for escape to a place of safety, or have other facilities affording a similarly convenient exit from the area. Each gate located within 200 feet (61 meters) of any compressor plant building must open outward and, when occupied, must be openable from the inside without a key.

(e) Electrical facilities. Electrical equipment and wiring installed in compressor stations must conform to the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, so far as that code is applicable.

192.165 Compressor Stations: Liquid Removal.

(a) Where entrained vapors in gas may liquefy under the anticipated pressure and temperature conditions, the compressor must be protected against the introduction of those liquids in quantities that could cause damage.

(b) Each liquid separator used to remove entrained liquids at a compressor station must:

(1) Have a manually operable means of removing these liquids;

(2) Where slugs of liquid could be carried into the compressors, have either automatic liquid removal facilities, an automatic compressor shut-down device, or a high liquid level alarm; and

(3) Be manufactured in accordance with Section VIII of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, except that liquid separators constructed of pipe and fittings without internal welding must be fabricated with a design factor of 0.4 or less.

192.167 Compressor Station: Emergency Shut-Down.

(a) Except for unattended field compressor stations of 1,000 horsepower (746 kilowatts) or less, each compressor station must have an emergency shutdown system that meets the following:

(1) It must be able to block gas out of the station and blow down the station piping.

(2) It must discharge gas from the blowdown piping at a location where the gas will not create a hazard.

(3) It must provide means for the shutdown of gas compressing equipment, gas fires, and electrical facilities in the vicinity of gas headers and in the compressor building except, that:

(i) Electrical circuits that supply emergency lighting required to assist station personnel in evacuating the compressor building and the area in the vicinity of the gas headers must remain energized; and

(ii) Electrical circuits needed to protect equipment from damage may remain energized.

(4) It must be operable from at least two locations, each of which is:

(i) Outside the gas area of the station;

(ii) Near the exit gates, if the station is fenced, or near emergency exits, if not fenced; and

(iii) Not more than 500 feet (153 meters) from the limits of the station.

(b) If a compressor station supplies gas directly to a distribution system with no other adequate source of gas available, the emergency shutdown system must be designed so that it will not function at the wrong time and cause the unintended outage on the distribution system.

192.169 Compressor Stations: Pressure Limiting Devices.

(a) Each compressor station must have pressure relief or other suitable protective devices of sufficient capacity and sensitivity to ensure that the maximum allowable operating pressure of the station piping and equipment is not exceeded by more than 10 percent.

(b) Each vent line that exhausts gas from the pressure relief valves of a compressor station must extend to a location where the gas may be discharged without hazard.

192.171 Compressor Stations: Additional Safety Equipment.

(a) Each compressor station must have adequate fire protection facilities. If fire pumps are a part of these facilities, their operation may not be affected by the emergency shutdown system.

(b) Each compressor station prime mover, other than an electrical induction or synchronous motor, must have an automatic device to shut down the unit before the speed of either the prime mover or the driven unit exceeds a maximum safe speed.

(c) Each compressor unit in a compressor station must have a shutdown or alarm device that operates in the event of inadequate cooling or lubrication of the unit.

(d) Each compressor station gas engine that operates with pressure gas injection must be equipped so that the stoppage of the engine automatically shuts off the fuel and vents the engine distribution manifold.

(e) Each muffler for a gas engine in a compressor station must have vent slots or holes in baffles of each compartment to prevent gas from being trapped in the muffler.

192.173 Compressor Stations: Ventilation.

Each compressor station building must be ventilated to ensure that employees are not endangered by the accumulation of gas in rooms, sumps, attics, pits, or other enclosed places.

192.175 Pipe-Type and Bottle-Type Holders.

(a) Each pipe-type and bottle-type holder must be designed so as to prevent the accumulation of liquids in the holder, in connecting pipe, or in auxiliary equipment, that might cause corrosion or interfere with the safe operation of the holder.

(b) Each pipe-type or bottle-type holder must have minimum clearance from other holders in accordance with the following formula in which:

C = Minimum clearance between pipe containers or bottles in inches (millimeters).

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D = Outside diameter of pipe containers or bottles in inches (millimeters).

P = Maximum allowable operating pressure, psi. (KPa) gage.

F = Design factor as set forth in Paragraph 192.111 of this part.

192.177 Additional Provisions for Bottle-Type Holders.

(a) Each bottle-type holder must be:

(1) Located on a site entirely surrounded by fencing that prevents access by unauthorized persons and with minimum clearance from the fence as follows:

Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure	Minimum Clearance feet (meters)
Less than l,000 psi. (7 MPa) gage ................	....25 (7.6)
1,000 psi. (7 MPa) or more ..........................	..100 (31)

(2) Designed using the design factors set forth in Paragraph 192.111; and

(3) Buried with a minimum cover in accordance with Paragraph 192.327.

(b) Each bottle-type holder manufactured from steel that is not weldable under field conditions must comply with the following:

(1) A bottle-type holder made from alloy steel must meet the chemical and tensile requirements for the various grades of steel in ASTM A 372/A 372M.

(2) The actual yield-tensile ratio of the steel may not exceed 0.85.

(3) Welding may not be performed on the holder after it has been heat treated or stress relieved, except that copper wires may be attached to the small diameter portion of the bottle end closure for cathodic protection if a localized thermite welding process is used.

(4) The holder must be given a mill hydrostatic test at a pressure that produces a hoop stress at least equal to 85 percent of the SMYS.

(5) The holder, connection pipe, and components must be leak tested after installation as required by Subpart J of this part.

192.179 Transmission Line Valves.

(a) Each transmission line must have sectionalizing block valves spaced as follows, unless in a particular case the Administrator finds that alternative spacing would provide an equivalent level of safety:

(1) Each point on the pipeline in a Class 4 location must be within 22 miles (4 kilometers) of a valve.

(2) Each point on the pipeline in a Class 3 location must be within 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) of a valve.

(3) Each point on the pipeline in a Class 2 location must be within 72 miles (12 kilometers) of a valve.

(4) Each point on the pipeline in a Class 1 location must be within 10 miles (16 kilometers) of a valve.

(b) Each sectionalizing block valve on a transmission line must comply with the following:

(1) The valve and the operating device to open or close the valve must be readily accessible and protected from tampering and damage.

(2) The valve must be supported to prevent settling of the valve or movement of the pipe to which it is attached.

(c) Each section of transmission line between main line valves must have a blowdown valve with enough capacity to allow the transmission line to be blown down as rapidly as practicable. Each blowdown discharge must be located so the gas can be blown to the atmosphere without hazard and, if the transmission line is adjacent to an overhead electric line, so that the gas is directed away from the electrical conductors.

192.181 Distribution Line Valves.

(a) Each high-pressure distribution system must have valves spaced so as to reduce the time to shut down a section of main in an emergency. The valve spacing is determined by the operating pressure, the size of the mains, and the local physical conditions.

(b) Each regulator station controlling the flow or pressure of gas in a distribution system must have a valve installed on the inlet piping at a distance from the regulator station sufficient to permit the operation of the valve during an emergency that might preclude access to the station.

(c) Each valve on a main installed for operating or emergency purposes must comply with the following:

(1) The valve must be placed in a readily accessible location so as to facilitate its operation in an emergency.

(2) The operating stem or mechanism must be readily accessible.

(3) If the valve is installed in a buried box or enclosure, the box or enclosure must be installed so as to avoid transmitting external loads to the main.

192.183 Vaults: Structural Design Requirements.

(a) Each underground vault or pit for valves, pressure relieving, pressure limiting, or pressure regulating stations, must be able to meet the loads which may be imposed upon it, and to protect installed equipment.

(b) There must be enough working space so that all of the equipment required in the vault or pit can be properly installed, operated, and maintained.

(c) Each pipe entering, or within, a regulator vault or pit must be steel for sizes 10 inches (254 millimeters), and less, except that control and gauge piping may be copper. Where pipe extends through the vault or pit structure, provision must be made to prevent the passage of gasses or liquids through the opening and to avert strains in the pipe.

192.185 Vaults: Accessibility.

Each vault must be located in an accessible location and, so far as practical, away from:

(a) Street intersections or points where traffic is heavy or dense;

(b) Points of minimum elevation, catch basins, or places where the access cover will be in the course of surface waters; and

(c) Water, electric, steam, or other facilities.

192.187 Vaults: Sealing, Venting, and Ventilation.

Each underground vault or closed top pit containing either a pressure regulating or reducing station, or a pressure limiting or relieving station, must be sealed, vented, or ventilated, as follows:

(a) When the internal volume exceeds 200 cubic feet (5.7 cubic meters):

(1) The vault or pit must be ventilated with two ducts, each having at least the ventilating effect of a pipe 4 inches (102 millimeters ) in diameter;

(2) The ventilation must be enough to minimize the formation of combustible atmosphere in the vault or pit; and

(3) The ducts must be high enough above grade to disperse any gas-air mixtures that might be discharged.

(b) When the internal volume is more than 75 cubic feet (2.1 cubic meters) but less than 200 cubic feet (5.7 cubic meters):

(1) If the vault or pit is sealed, each opening must have a tight fitting cover without open holes through which an explosive mixture might be ignited, and there must be a means for testing the internal atmosphere before removing the cover;

(2) If the vault or pit is vented, there must be a means of preventing external sources of ignition from reaching the vault atmosphere; or

(3) If the vault or pit is ventilated, Paragraph (a) or (c) of this section applies.

(c) If a vault or pit covered by Paragraph (b) of this section is ventilated by openings in the covers or gratings and the ratio of the internal volume, in cubic feet, to the effective ventilating area of the cover or grating, in square feet, is less than 20 to 1, no additional ventilation is required.

192.189 Vaults: Drainage and Waterproofing.

(a) Each vault must be designed so as to minimize the entrance of water.

(b) A vault containing gas piping may not be connected by means of a drain connection to any other underground structure.

(c) Electrical equipment in vaults must conform to the applicable requirements of Class 1, Group D, of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70.

192.191 Design Pressure of Plastic Fittings.

(a) Thermosetting fittings for plastic pipe must conform to ASTM D-2517.

(b) Thermoplastic fittings for plastic pipe must conform to ASTM D-2513.

192.193 Valve Installation in Plastic Pipe.

Each valve installed in plastic pipe must be designed so as to protect the plastic material against excessive torsional or shearing loads when the valve or shutoff is operated, and from any other secondary stresses that might be exerted through the valve or its enclosure.

192.195 Protection Against Accidental Overpressuring.

(a) General requirements. Except as provided in Paragraph 192.197, each pipeline that is connected to a gas source so that the maximum allowable operating pressure could be exceeded as the result of pressure control failure or of some other type of failure, must have pressure relieving or pressure limiting devices that meet the requirements of Paragraphs 192.199 and 192.201.

(b) Additional requirements for distribution systems. Each distribution system that is supplied from a source of gas that is at a higher pressure than the maximum allowable operating pressure for the system must:

(1) Have pressure regulation devices capable of meeting the pressure, load, and other service conditions that will be experienced in normal operation of the system, and that could be activated in the event of failure of some portion of the system; and

(2) Be designed so as to prevent accidental overpressuring.

192.197 Control of Pressure of Gas Delivered from High-Pressure Distribution Systems.

(a) Each operator shall establish a maximum actual operating pressure for each distribution system as required by Paragraph 192.622.

(b) If the maximum actual operating pressure of the distribution system is 60 psi. (414 kPa) gage, or less, and a service regulator having the following characteristics is used, no other pressure limiting device is required:

(1) A regulator capable of reducing line pressure to pressures required to safely operate the customers' gas utilization equipment.

(2) A regulator with an internal relief valve vented to the outside atmosphere or an overpressure control device.

(3) A single port valve with the orifice size commensurate with the inlet pressure to assure adequate volume and pressure to the customer and also assures the overpressure control device prevents the build-up of pressure that would cause the unsafe operation of the customers' gas utilization equipment.

(4) A valve seat made of resilient material designed to withstand abrasion of the gas, impurities in gas, cutting of the valve, and to resist permanent deformation when pressed against the valve port.

(5) Pipe connections to the regulator not exceeding 2 inches (51 millimeters) in diameter.

(6) A regulator that, under normal operating conditions, will regulate the downstream pressure within the necessary limits of accuracy and prevents the build-up of pressure under no flow conditions that would cause the unsafe operation of the customers' gas utilization equipment.

(7) A self contained regulator with no external static or control lines.

(c) If the maximum actual operating pressure of the distribution system is 60 psi. (414 kPa) gage, or less, and a regulator that does not have all the characteristics listed in Paragraph (b) of this section is used, or if the gas contains materials that seriously affects the operation of the regulator, there must be suitable protective devices installed to prevent over-pressuring the customers' gas utilization equipment if the regulator fails.

(d) If the maximum actual operating pressure of the distribution system exceed 60 psi. (414 kPa) gage, one of the following methods must be used to regulate and limit to a safe value, the pressure delivered to the customers' gas utilization equipment:

(1) A service regulator having the characteristics listed in Paragraph (b) this part, and another regulator located upstream from the service regulator. The upstream regulator may not be set to maintain a pressure higher than 60 psi. (414 kPa) gage. If the upstream regulator does not have an internal relief valve of sufficient capacity to limit the pressure to the service regulator to 60 psi.(414 kPa) gage, a device must be installed between the upstream regulator and service regulator to limit the pressure to the service regulator to 60 psi.(414 kPa) gage or less in case the upstream regulator fails to function properly. This device may be either a regulator, relief valve, or an automatic shutoff that shuts if the pressure on the inlet of the service regulator exceeds 60 psi. (414 kPa) gage, and remains closed until manually reset.

(2) A service regulator and a monitoring regulator set to limit, to a safe value, the pressure delivered to the customer. Both regulators must be constructed to withstand the maximum inlet pressure.

(3) A service regulator and an automatic shutoff device that closes upon an unsafe rise in pressure downstream from the regulator and remains closed until manually reset.

(e) If the maximum actual operating pressure does not exceed 125 psi. (862 kPa) gage, a service regulator having the characteristics listed in Paragraph (b) of this section and a manufacturer's inlet working pressure rating of 125 psi. (862 kPa) gage or higher, may be used. If the internal relief valve capacity will prevent the downstream pressure from exceeding a safe value, or an overpressure control device is installed, no additional pressure limiting device is required.

192.199 Requirements for Design of Pressure Relief and Limiting Devices.

Except for rupture discs, each pressure relief or pressure limiting device must:

(a) Be constructed of materials such that the operation of the device will not be impaired by corrosion;

(b) Have valves and valve seats that are designed not to stick in a position that will make the device inoperative;

(c) Be designed and installed so that it can be readily operated to determine if the valve is free, can be tested to determine the pressure at which it will operate, and can be tested for leakage when in the closed position;

(d) Have support made of noncombustible material;

(e) Have discharge stacks, vents, or outlet ports designed to prevent accumulation of water, ice, or snow, located where gas can be discharged into the atmosphere without undue hazard;

(f) Be designed and installed so that the size of the openings, pipe, and fittings located between the system to be protected and the pressure relieving device, and the size of the vent line, are adequate to prevent hammering of the valve and to prevent impairment of relief capacity;

(g) Where installed at a district regulator station to protect a pipeline system from overpressuring, be designed and installed to prevent any single incident such as an explosion in a vault or damage by a vehicle from affecting the operation of both the overpressure protective device and the district regulator; and

(h) Except for a valve that will isolate the system under protection from its source of pressure, be designed to prevent unauthorized operation of any stop valve that will make the pressure relief valve or pressure limiting device inoperative.

(i) Each regulator station must be provided with reasonable protection from physical damage due to vehicles or other causes by being placed in a suitable location or by installation of barricades.

192.201 Required Capacity of Pressure Relieving and Limiting Stations.

(a) Each pressure relief station or pressure limiting station or group of those stations installed to protect a pipeline must have enough capacity, and must be set to operate, to insure the following:

(1) In a low pressure distribution system, the pressure may not cause the unsafe operation of any connected and properly adjusted gas utilization equipment.

(2) In pipelines other than a low pressure distribution system:

(i) If the maximum allowable operating pressure is 60 psi. (414 kPa) or more, the pressure may not exceed the maximum allowable operating pressure plus 10 percent, or the pressure that produces a hoop stress of 75 percent of SMYS, whichever is lower;

(ii) If the maximum allowable operating pressure is 12 psi. (83 kPa) gage or more, but less than 60 psi. (414 kPa) gage, the pressure may not exceed the maximum allowable operating pressure plus 6 psi. (41kPa) gage; or

(iii) If the maximum allowable operating pressure is less than 12 psi. (83 kPa) gage, the pressure may not exceed the maximum allowable operating pressure plus 50 percent.

(b) When more than one pressure regulating or compressor station feeds into a pipeline, relief valves or other protective devices must be installed at each station to ensure that the complete failure of the largest capacity regulator or compressor, or any single run of lesser capacity regulators or compressors in that station, will not impose pressures on any part of the pipeline or distribution system in excess of those for which it was designed, or against which it was protected, whichever is lower.

(c) Relief valves or other pressure limiting devices must be installed at or near each regulator station in a low-pressure distribution system, with a capacity to limit the maximum pressure in the main to a pressure that will not exceed the safe operating pressure for any connected and properly adjusted gas utilization equipment.

192.203 Instrument, Control, and Sampling Pipe and Components.

(a) Applicability. This section applies to the design of instrument, control and sampling pipe and components. It does not apply to permanently closed systems, such as fluid-filled temperature responsive devices.

(b) Materials and design. All materials employed for pipe and components must be designed to meet the particular conditions of service and the following:

(1) Each takeoff connection and attaching boss, fitting, or adapter must be made of suitable material, be able to withstand the maximum service pressure and temperature of the pipe or equipment to which it is attached, and be designed to satisfactorily withstand all stresses without failure by fatigue.

(2) Except for takeoff lines that can be isolated from sources of pressure by other valving, a shutoff valve must be installed in each take-off line as near as practicable to the point of take-off. Blowdown valves must be installed where necessary.

(3) Brass or copper material may not be used for metal temperatures greater than 400EF (204EC).

(4) Pipe or components that may contain liquids must be protected by heating or other means from damage due to freezing.

(5) Pipe or components in which liquids may accumulate must have drains or drips.

(6) Pipe or components subject to clogging from solids or deposits must have suitable connections for cleaning.

(7) The arrangement of pipe, components, and supports must provide safety under anticipated operating stresses.

(8) Each joint between sections of pipe, and between pipe and valves or fittings, must be made in a manner suitable for the anticipated pressure and temperature condition. Slip type expansion joints may not be used. Expansion must be allowed for by providing flexibility within the system itself.

(9) Each control line must be protected from anticipated causes of damage and must be designed and installed to prevent damage to any one control line from making both the regulator and the over-pressure protective device inoperative.

SUBPART E -WELDING OF STEEL IN PIPELINES

192.221 Scope.

(a) This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for welding steel materials in pipelines.

(b) This subpart does not apply to welding that occurs during the manufacture of steel pipe or steel pipeline components.

192.225 Welding - General.

(a) Welding must be performed by a qualified welder in accordance with welding procedures qualified to produce welds meeting the requirements of this subpart. The quality of the test welds used to qualify the procedure shall be determined by destructive testing.

(b) Each welding procedure must be recorded in detail, including the results of the qualifying tests. This record must be retained and followed whenever the procedure is used.

192.227 Qualification of Welders.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, each welder must be qualified in accordance with Section 3 of API Standard 1104 or Section IX of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. However, a welder qualified under an earlier edition than listed in Appendix A may weld but may not requalify under that earlier edition.

(b) A welder may qualify to perform welding on pipe to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of less than 20 percent of SMYS by performing an acceptable test weld, for the process to be used, under the test set forth in Section I of Appendix C to this part. A welder who makes welded service line connections to mains must also perform an acceptable test weld under Section II of Appendix C to this part as a part of the qualifying test.

192.229 Limitations on Welders.

(a) No welder whose qualification is based on nondestructive testing may weld compressor station pipe and components.

(b) No welder may weld with a particular welding process unless, within the preceding 6 calendar months, he has engaged in welding with that process.

(c) A welder qualified under Paragraph 192.227(a) -

(1) May not weld on pipe to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of 20 percent or more of SMYS unless within the preceding 6 calendar months the welder has had one weld tested and found acceptable under section 3 or 6 of API Standard 1104, except that a welder qualified under an earlier edition previously listed in Appendix A of this part may weld but not requalify under that earlier edition; and

(2) May not weld on pipe to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of less than 20 percent of SMYS unless the welder is tested in accordance with paragraph (c)(1) of this section or requalifies under paragraph (d)(1) or d(2) of this section.

(d) A welder qualified under Paragraph 192.227(b) may not weld unless -

(1) Within the preceding 15 calendar months, but at least once each calendar year, the welder has requalified under Paragraph 192.227(b); or

(2) Within the preceding 7 2 calendar months, but at least twice each calendar year, the welder has had -

(i) A production weld cut out, tested, and found acceptable in accordance with the qualifying test; or

(ii) For welders who work only on service lines 2 inches (51 millimeters) or smaller in diameter, two sample welds tested and found acceptable in accordance with the test in section III of Appendix C of this part.

192.231 Protection from Weather.

The welding operation must be protected from weather conditions that would impair the quality of the completed weld.

192.233 Miter Joints.

(a) A miter joint on steel pipe to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of 30 percent or more of SMYS may not deflect the pipe more than 3°.

(b) A miter joint on steel pipe to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of less than 30 percent, but more than 10 percent, of SMYS may not deflect the pipe more than 122½° and must be a distance equal to one pipe diameter or more away from any other miter joint, as measured from the crotch of each joint.

(c) A miter joint on steel pipe to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of 10 percent or less of SMYS may not deflect the pipe more than 90°.

192.235 Preparation for Welding.

Before beginning any welding, the welding surfaces must be clean and free of any material that may be detrimental to the weld, and the pipe or component must be aligned to provide the most favorable condition for depositing the root bead. This alignment must be preserved while the root bead is being deposited.

192.241 Inspection and Test of Welds.

(a) Visual inspection of welding must be conducted to insure that:

(1) The welding is performed in accordance with the welding procedure; and

(2) The weld is acceptable under Paragraph (c) of this section.

(b) The welds on a pipeline to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of 20 percent or more of SMYS must be nondestructively tested in accordance with Paragraph 192.243, except that welds that are visually inspected and approved by a qualified welding inspector need not be nondestructively tested if:

(1) The pipe has a nominal diameter of less than 6 inches (152 millimeters); or

(2) The pipeline is to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of less than 40 percent of SMYS and the welds are so limited in number that nondestructive testing is impractical.

(c) The acceptability of a weld that is nondestructively tested or visually inspected is determined according to the standards in Section 6 of API Standard 1104. However, if a girth weld is unacceptable under those standards for a reason other than a crack, and if the Appendix to API Standard 1104 applies to the weld, the acceptability of the weld may be further determined under that Appendix.

(d) Each operator must designate in writing a welding inspector to perform visual inspections of welds under this paragraph.

192.243 Nondestructive Testing.

(a) Nondestructive testing of welds must be performed by any process, other than trepanning, that will clearly indicate defects that may affect the integrity of the weld.

(b) Nondestructive testing of welds must be performed:

(1) In accordance with written procedures; and

(2) By persons who have been trained and qualified in accordance with the requirements of API Standard 1104. These persons must also be qualified on the equipment employed in the nondestructive testing.

(c) Procedures must be established for the proper interpretation of each nondestructive test of a weld to ensure the acceptability of the weld under Paragraph 192.241(c).

(d) When nondestructive testing is required under Paragraph 192.241(b), the following percentages of each day's field butt welds, selected at random by the operator, must be nondestructively tested over their entire circumference:

(1) In Class 1 locations, at least 10 percent.

(2) In Class 2 locations, at least 15 percent.

(3) In Class 3 and 4 locations at crossings of major or navigable rivers and within railroad or public highway rights-of-way, including tunnels, bridges, and overhead road crossings, 100 percent unless impracticable, in which case at least 90 percent. Nondestructive testing must be impracticable for each girth weld not tested.

(4) At pipeline tie-ins, including tie-ins of replacement sections, 100 percent.

(e) Except for a welder whose work is isolated from the principal welding activity, a sample of each welder's work for each day must be nondestructively tested, when nondestructive testing is required under Paragraph 192.241(b).

(f) When nondestructive testing is required under Paragraph 192.241(b) each operator must retain, for the life of the pipeline, a record showing by milepost, engineering station, or by geographic feature, the number of girth welds made, the number nondestructively tested, the number rejected, and the disposition of the rejects.

192.245 Repair or Removal of Defects.

(a) Each weld that is unacceptable under Paragraph 192.241(c) must be removed or repaired. A weld must be removed if it has a crack that is more than 8 percent of the weld length.

(b) Each weld that is repaired must have the defect removed down to sound metal and the segment to be repaired must be preheated if conditions exist which would adversely affect the quality of the weld repair. After repair, the segment of the weld that was repaired must be inspected to ensure its acceptability.

(c) Repair of a crack, or of any defect in a previously repaired area must be in accordance with the written weld repair procedures that have been qualified under Paragraph 192.225. Repair procedures must provide that the minimum mechanical properties specified for the welding procedures used to make the original weld are met upon completion of the final weld repair.

SUBPART F -JOINING OF MATERIALS OTHER THAN BY WELDING

192.271 Scope.

(a) This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for joining materials in pipelines, other than by welding.

(b) This subpart does not apply to joining during the manufacture of pipe or pipeline components.

(c) Where pipe is to be joined or connections made by threaded couplings all threads will meet the standards of API Standard 5B. All joints will be made up power-tight using a suitable thread sealant.

192.273 General.

(a) The pipeline must be designed and installed so that each joint will sustain the longitudinal pullout or thrust forces caused by contraction or expansion of the piping or by anticipated external or internal loading.

(b) Each joint must be made in accordance with written procedures that have been proven by test or experience to produce strong gas-tight joints.

(c) Each joint must be inspected to insure compliance with this subpart.

192.275 Cast Iron Pipe.

(a) Each caulked bell and spigot joint in cast iron pipe must be sealed with mechanical leak clamps.

(b) Each mechanical joint in cast iron pipe must have a gasket made of a resilient material as the sealing medium. Each gasket must be suitably confined and retained under compression by a separate gland or follower ring.

(c) Cast iron pipe may not be joined by threaded joints.

(d) Cast iron pipe may not be joined by brazing.

192.277 Ductile Iron Pipe.

(a) Ductile iron pipe may not be joined by threaded joints.

(b) Ductile iron pipe may not be joined by brazing.

192.279 Copper Pipe.

Copper pipe may not be threaded, except that copper pipe used for joining screw fittings or valves may be threaded if the wall thickness is equivalent to the comparable size of Schedule 40 or heavier wall pipe listed in Table C1 of ASME/ANSI B16.5.

192.281 Plastic Pipe.

(a) General. The joining of plastic pipe must be performed by a person qualified by experience or training in the joining of plastic pipe. Each joint must be made in accordance with written procedures that have been proven by destructive burst test to provide joints at least as strong as the pipe being joined. Plastic pipe shall not be joined by a threaded or miter joint. Plastic pipe manufactured from polyethylene shall be joined by heat fusion or mechanical joints.

(b) Solvent cement joints. Each solvent cement joint on plastic pipe must comply with the following:

(1) Plastic pipe manufactured from different materials shall not be joined by solvent cement joints.

(2) The plastic fittings and solvent cement must conform to the specifications listed in ASTM Designation D 2513.

(3) The mating surfaces of the joint must be clean, dry, and free of material which might be detrimental to the joint.

(4) The joint may not be heated to accelerate the setting of the cement.

NOTE: Failure to comply with safety requirements may result in personal injury.

(c) Heat-fusion joints. Each heat-fusion joint on plastic pipe must comply with the following:

(1) A butt heat-fusion joint must be joined by a device that holds the heater element square to the ends of the piping, compresses the heated ends together, and holds the pipe in proper alignment while the plastic hardens.

(2) A socket heat-fusion joint must be joined by a device that heats the mating surfaces of the joint uniformly and simultaneously to the proper temperature.

(3) An electrofusion joint must be joined utilizing the equipment and techniques of the fittings manufacturer or equipment and techniques of the fittings manufacturer or equipment and techniques shown, by testing joints to the requirements of paragraph 192.283(a)(1)(iii), to be at least equivalent to those of the fittings manufacturer.

(4) Heat may not be applied with a torch or other open flame.

(d) Adhesive joints. Each adhesive joint on thermosetting plastic pipe must comply with the following:

(1) The plastic fittings and adhesives must conform to the specifications listed in ASTM Designation D 2517.

(2) The materials and adhesive must be compatible with each other.

(e) Mechanical joints. Each compression type mechanical joint on plastic pipe must comply with the following:

(1) Mechanical joints must be gas-tight and installed with materials that will prevent tensile pullouts.

(2) The gasket material in the coupling must be compatible with the plastic.

(3) An internal tubular rigid stiffener designed for plastic pipe with either lock inserts, serrations or grip rings shall be used in joining polyethylene pipe with compression type fittings.

(4) An internal tubular rigid stiffener free of rough or sharp edges with a smooth fit into the pipe shall be used in joining rigid plastic pipe with compression type fittings.

(5) The internal tubular stiffener shall be flush with the end of the pipe and extend past the compressed area of the pipe.

(6) Split tubular stiffeners shall not be used.

192.283 Plastic Pipe: Qualifying Joining Procedures.

(a) Heat Fusion, Solvent Cement, and Adhesive Joints. Before any written procedure established under Paragraph 192.273(b) is used for making plastic pipe joints by a heat fusion, solvent cement, or adhesive method, the procedure must be qualified by subjecting specimen joints made according to the procedure to the following tests:

(1) The burst test requirements of:

(i) In the case of thermoplastic pipe, paragraph 6.6 (Sustained Pressure Test) or paragraph 6.7 (Minimum Hydrostatic Burst Pressure (Quick Burst)) of ASTM D 2513;

(ii) In the case of thermosetting plastic pipe, paragraph 8.5 (Minimum Hydrostatic Burst Pressure) or Paragraph 8.9 (Sustained Static Pressure Test) of ASTM D 2517.

(iii) In the case of electrofusion fittings for polyethylene pipe and tubing, paragraph 9.1 (Minimum Hydraulic Burst Pressure Test), paragraph 9.2 (Sustained Pressure Test), paragraph 9.3 (Tensile Strength Test), or paragraph 9.4 (Joint Integrity Tests) of ASTM Designation F1055.

(2) For procedures intended for lateral pipe connections, subject a specimen joint made from pipe sections joined at right angles according to the procedure to a force on the lateral pipe until failure occurs in the specimen. If failure initiates outside the joint area, the procedure qualifies for use; and

(3) For procedures intended for nonlateral pipe connections, follow the tensile test requirements of ASTM D 638, except that the test may be conducted at ambient temperature and humidity. If the specimen elongates no less than 25 percent or failure initiates outside the joint area, the procedure qualifies for use.

(b) Mechanical Joints. Before any written procedure established under Paragraph 192.273(b) is used for making mechanical plastic pipe joints that are designed to withstand tensile forces, the procedure must be qualified by subjecting five specimen joints made according to the procedure to the following tensile test:

(1) Use an apparatus for the test as specified in ASTM D 638 (except for conditioning).

(2) The specimen must be of such length that the distance between the grips of the apparatus and the end of the stiffener does not affect the joint strength.

(3) The speed of testing is 0.20 in. (5.0mm) per minute, plus or minus 25 percent.

(4) Pipe specimens less than 4 in. (102mm) in diameter are qualified if the pipe yields to an elongation of no less than 25 percent or failure initiates outside the joint area.

(5) Pipe specimens 4 in. (102mm) and larger in diameter shall be pulled until the pipe is subjected to a tensile stress equal to or greater than the maximum thermal stress that would be produced by a temperature change of 100°F (38°C) or until the pipe is pulled from the fitting. If the pipe pulls from the fitting, the lowest value of the five test results or the manufacturer's rating, whichever is lower, must be used in the design calculations for stress.

(6) Each specimen that fails at the grips must be retested using new pipe.

(7) Results obtained pertain only to the specific outside diameter, and material of the pipe tested, except that testing of a heavier wall pipe may be used to qualify pipe of the same material but with lesser wall thickness.

(c) A copy of each written procedure being used for joining plastic pipe must be available to the persons making and inspecting joints.

(d) Pipe or fittings manufactured before July 1, 1980 may be used in accordance with procedures that the manufacturer certifies will produce a joint as strong as the pipe.

192.285 Plastic Pipe: Qualifying Persons To Make Joints.

(a) No person may make a plastic pipe joint unless that person has been qualified under the applicable joining procedure by:

(1) Appropriate training or experience in the use of the procedure; and

(2) Making a specimen joint from pipe sections joined according to the procedure that passes the inspection and test set forth in Paragraph (b) of this section.

(b) The specimen joint must be:

(1) Visually examined during and after assembly or joining and found to have the same appearance as a joint or photographs of a joint that is acceptable under the procedure; and

(2) In the case of a heat fusion, solvent cement, or adhesive joint:

(i) Tested under any one of the test methods listed under Paragraph 192.283(a) applicable to the type of joint and material being tested;

(ii) Examined by ultrasonic inspection and found not to contain flaws that would cause failure; or

(iii) Cut into at least three longitudinal straps, each of which is:

(A) Visually examined and found not to contain voids or discontinuities on the cut surfaces of the joint area; and

(B) Deformed by bending, torque, or impact, and, if failure occurs, it must not initiate in the joint area.

(c) A person must be requalified under an applicable procedure, if during any 12 month period that person:

(1) Does not make any joints under that procedure; or

(2) Has three joints or 3 percent of the joints made, whichever is greater, under that procedure that are found unacceptable by testing under Paragraph 192.513.

(d) Each operator shall establish a method to determine that each person making joints in plastic pipelines in the operator's system is qualified in accordance with this section.

192.287 Plastic Pipe: Inspection of Joints.

No person may carry out the inspection of joints in plastic pipes required by Paragraphs 192.273(c) and 192.285(b) unless that person has been qualified by appropriate training or experience in evaluating the acceptability of plastic pipe joints made under the applicable joining procedure.

SUBPART G -GENERAL CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR TRANSMISSION LINES AND MAINS

192.301 Scope.

This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for constructing transmission lines and mains.

192.303 Compliance with Specifications or Standards.

(a) Each transmission line or main must be constructed in accordance with comprehensive written specifications or standards that are consistent with this Code. Applications or petitions for Certificates of Convenience and Necessity for new construction filed with the Commission shall stipulate that design, construction, testing, operation and maintenance of facility will comply with the requirements of the Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code.

(b) Each operator of a mobile home park, Federal housing development, or multi-building complex having a master meter, who constructs a distribution system must submit construction plans to the local gas operator for approval before construction is started. The plan shall show the following: location, type, size and specification of pipe; number of services; operating pressure; plans for corrosion control of the pipe, i.e., coating of pipe and cathodic protection. This review will assure all material and construction procedures meet the requirements of this Code. Each owner or operator must certify in writing to the operator supplying gas that the system shall be constructed, tested and inspected in accordance with this Code. This certification must be made to the gas operator before service is connected to the system and will be kept on file by each party for the life of the system.

192.305 Inspection: General.

Each transmission line or main must be inspected to ensure that it is constructed in accordance with this part.

192.307 Inspection of Materials.

Each length of pipe and each other component must be visually inspected at the site of installation to ensure that it has not sustained any visually determinable damage that could impair its serviceability.

192.309 Repair of Steel Pipe.

(a) Each imperfection or damage that impairs the serviceability of a length of steel pipe must be repaired or removed. If a repair is made by grinding, the remaining wall thickness must at least be equal to either:

(1) The minimum thickness required by the tolerances in the specification to which the pipe was manufactured; or

(2) The nominal wall thickness required for the design pressure of the pipeline.

(b) Each of the following dents must be removed from steel pipe to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of 20 percent, or more, of SMYS, unless the dent is repaired by a method that reliable engineering tests and analyses show can permanently restore the serviceability of the pipe:

(1) A dent that contains a stress concentrator such as a scratch, gouge, groove, or arc burn.

(2) A dent that affects the longitudinal weld or a circumferential weld.

(3) In pipe to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of 40 percent or more of SMYS, a dent that has a depth of:

(i) More than 1/4 inch (6.4 millimeters) in pipe 12: inches (324 millimeters) or less in outer diameter; or

(ii) More than 2 percent of the nominal pipe diameter in pipe over 12: inches (324 millimeters) in outer diameter.

For the purpose of this section a "dent" is a depression that produces a gross disturbance in the curvature of the pipe wall without reducing the pipe-wall thickness. The depth of a dent is measured as the gap between the lowest point of the dent and a prolongation of the original contour of the pipe.

(c) Each arc burn on steel pipe to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of 40 percent, or more, of SMYS must be repaired or removed. If a repair is made by grinding, the arc burn must be completely removed and the remaining wall thickness must be at least equal to either:

(1) The minimum wall thickness required by the tolerances in the specification to which the pipe was manufactured; or

(2) The nominal wall thickness required for the design pressure of the pipeline.

(d) A gouge, groove, arc burn, or dent may not be repaired by insert patching or by pounding out.

(e) Each gouge, groove, arc burn, or dent that is removed from a length of pipe must be removed by cutting out the damaged portion as a cylinder.

192.311 Repair of Plastic Pipe.

Each imperfection or damage that would impair the serviceability of plastic pipe must be repaired or removed.

192.313 Bends and Elbows.

(a) Each field bend in steel pipe, other than a wrinkle bend made in accordance with Paragraph 192.315, must comply with the following:

(1) A bend must not impair the serviceability of the pipe.

(2) Each bend must have a smooth contour and be free from buckling, cracks, or any other mechanical damage.

(3) On pipe containing the longitudinal weld, the longitudinal weld must be as near as practicable to the neutral axis of the bend unless:

(i) The bend is made with an internal bending mandrel; or

(ii) The pipe is 12 inches (305 millimeters) or less in outside diameter or has a diameter to wall thickness ratio less than 70.

(b) Each circumferential weld of steel pipe which is located where the stress during bending causes a permanent deformation in the pipe must be non-destructively tested either before or after the bending process.

(c) Wrought-steel welding elbows and transverse segments of these elbows may not be used for changes in direction on steel pipe that is 2 inches (51 millimeters) or more in diameter unless the arc length, as measured along the crotch, is at least 1 inch (25 millimeters).

192.315 Wrinkle Bends in Steel Pipe.

(a) A wrinkle bend may not be made on steel pipe to be operated at a pressure that produces a hoop stress of 30 percent, or more, of SMYS.

(b) Each wrinkle bend on steel pipe must comply with the following:

(1) The bend must not have any sharp kinks.

(2) When measured along the crotch of the bend, the wrinkles must be a distance of at least one pipe diameter.

(3) On pipe 16 inches (406 millimeters) or larger in diameter, the bend may not have a deflection of more than 12½° for each wrinkle.

(4) On pipe containing a longitudinal weld the longitudinal seam must be as near as practicable to the neutral axis of the bend.

192.317 Protection from Hazards.

(a) The operator must take all practicable steps to protect each transmission line or main must be protected from washouts, floods, unstable soil, landslides, or other hazards that may cause the pipeline to move or to sustain abnormal loads.

(b) Each transmission line or main that is constructed above ground must be protected from accidental damage by vehicular traffic or other similar causes, either by being placed at a safe distance from the traffic or by installing barricades.

192.319 Installation of Pipe in a Ditch.

(a) When installed in a ditch, each transmission line that is to be operated at a pressure producing hoop stress of 20 percent or more of SMYS must be installed so that the pipe fits the ditch so as to minimize stresses and protect the pipe coating from damage.

(b) Each ditch for a transmission line or main must be backfilled in a manner that:

(1) Provides firm support under the pipe; and

(2) Prevents damage to the pipe and pipe coating from equipment or from the backfill material.

192.321 Installation of Plastic Pipe.

(a) The installation of plastic pipe must be carried out by, or under the direction of a person qualified by experience or training in the installation of plastic pipe. Procedures established by the operator or those recommended by the pipe manufacturer shall be followed during all phases of installation.

(b) Plastic pipe must be installed below ground level.

(c) Plastic pipe that is installed in a vault or any other below grade enclosure must be completely encased in gas-tight metal pipe and fittings that are adequately protected from corrosion.

(d) Plastic pipe shall be installed so as to minimize shear or tensile stresses resulting from construction, backfill, thermal contraction or external loading. As a minimum, the operator shall comply with the following:

(1) Pipe that is pulled or plowed-in during the installation process shall be given sufficient time to cool and contract to its original length prior to joining or sufficient slack placed in the pipe to compensate for contraction.

(2) Plastic pipe shall not be bent to a radius less than the minimum recommended by the manufacturer.

(3) Butt joints, taps and socket joints are not permitted in bends with a radius of less than 125 times the pipe diameter.

(4) Plastic pipe shall be installed with sufficient slack to allow for thermal expansion and contraction. This slack is critical for pipe inserted into existing mains and joined to metal pipe. The thermal expansion and contraction factor for plastic pipe is approximately 1 inch per 100 feet for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit change in temperature.

(e) Thermoplastic pipe that is not encased must have a minimum wall thickness of 0.090 inches (2.29 millimeters) except that pipe with an outside diameter of 0.875 inches (22.3 millimeters) or less may have a minimum wall thickness of 0.062 inches (1.58 millimeters).

(f) Plastic pipe that is not encased must have an electrically conducting wire or other means of locating the pipe while it is underground. Tracer wire may not be wrapped around the pipe and contact with the pipe must be minimized but is not prohibited. Tracer wire or other metallic elements installed for pipe locating purposes must be resistant to corrosion damage, either by use of coated copper wire or by other means.

(g) Plastic pipe that is being encased must be inserted into the casing pipe in a manner that will protect the plastic. The leading end of the plastic must be closed before insertion.

192.323 Casing.

Each casing used on a transmission line or main under a railroad or highway must comply with the following:

(a) The casing must be designed to withstand the superimposed loads.

(b) If there is a possibility of water entering the casing, the ends must be sealed.

(c) If the ends of an unvented casing are sealed and the sealing is strong enough to retain the maximum allowable operating pressure of the pipe, the casing must be designed to hold this pressure at a stress level of not more than 72 percent of SMYS.

(d) If vents are installed on a casing, the vents must be protected from the weather to prevent water from entering the casing.

192.325 Underground Clearance.

(a) Each transmission line must be installed with at least 12 inches (305 millimeters) of clearance from any other underground structure not associated with the transmission line. If this clearance cannot be attained, the transmission line must be protected from damage that might result from the proximity of the other structure.

(b) Each main must be installed with enough clearance from any other underground structure to allow proper maintenance and to protect against damage that might result from proximity to other structures.

(c) In addition to meeting the requirements of Paragraph (a) or (b) of this section, each plastic transmission line or main must be installed with sufficient clearance, or must be insulated, from any source of heat so as to prevent the heat from impairing the serviceability of the pipe.

(d) Each pipe-type or bottle-type holder must be installed with a minimum clearance from any other holder as prescribed in Paragraph 192.175(b).

192.327 Cover.

(a) Except as provided in Paragraphs (c) and (e) of this section, each buried transmission line must be installed with a minimum cover as follows:

Location	Normal Soil Inches (Millimeters)	Consolidated Rock Inches (Millimeters)
Class 1 locations ................................	30 (762)	18 (457)
Class 2, 3, and 4 locations .........	36 (914)	24 (610)
Drainage ditches of public roads and railroad crossings .........................................	36 (914)	24 (610)

(b) Except as provided in Paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, each buried main must be installed with at least 24 inches (610 millimeters).

(c) Where an underground structure prevents the installation of a transmission line or main with the minimum cover, the transmission line or main may be installed with less cover if it is provided with additional protection to withstand anticipated external loads.

(d) A main may be installed with less than 24 inches (610 millimeters) of cover if the law of the State or municipality:

(1) Establishes a minimum cover of less than 24 inches (610 millimeters);

(2) Requires that mains be installed in a common trench with other utility lines; and

(3) Provides adequately for prevention of damage to the pipe by external forces.

(e) All pipe which is installed in a navigable river, stream, or harbor must have a minimum cover of 48 inches (1219 millimeters) in soil or 24 inches (610 millimeters) in consolidated rock between the top of the pipe and the natural bottom. However, less than the minimum cover is permitted in accordance with Paragraph (c) of this section.

SUBPART H .-CUSTOMER METERS, SERVICE REGULATORS, AND SERVICE LINES

192.351 Scope.

This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for installing customer meters, service regulators, service lines, service line valves, and service line connections to mains.

192.353 Customer Meters and Regulators: Location.

(a) Each meter and service regulator, whether inside or outside a building, must be installed in a readily accessible location and be protected from corrosion and other damage, including, if installed outside a building, vehicular damage that may be anticipated.

(b) Each meter installed within a building must be located in a ventilated place and not less than 3 feet (914 millimeters) from any source of ignition or any source of heat which might damage the meter.

(c) Where feasible, meters and regulators previously installed inside of buildings will be relocated to outside of building when the regulator or meter is removed for any reason.

192.355 Customer Meters and Regulators: Protection from Damage.

(a) Protection from vacuum or back pressure. If the customer's equipment might create either a vacuum or a back pressure, a device must be installed to protect the system.

(b) Service regulator vents and relief vents. Service regulator vents and relief vents must terminate outdoors, and the outdoor terminal must:

(1) Be rain and insect resistant;

(2) Be located at a place where gas from the vent can escape freely into the atmosphere and away from any opening into the building; and

(3) Be protected from damage caused by submergence in areas where flooding may occur.

(c) Pits and vaults. Each pit or vault that houses a customer meter or regulator at a place where vehicular traffic is anticipated, must be able to support that traffic.

(d) Protection from physical damage. Each customer regulator and meter must be provided with reasonable protection from physical damage due to vehicles or other causes by being placed in a suitable location or by installation of barricades.

192.357 Customer Meters and Regulators: Installation.

(a) Each meter and each regulator must be installed so as to minimize anticipated stresses upon the connecting piping and the meter.

(b) When close all-thread nipples are used, the wall thickness remaining after the threads are cut must meet the minimum wall thickness requirements of this part.

(c) Connections made of lead or other easily damaged material may not be used in the installation of meters or regulators.

(d) Each regulator that might release gas in its operation must be vented to the outside atmosphere.

192.359 Customer Meter Installations: Operating Pressure.

(a) A meter may not be used at a pressure that is more than 67 percent of the manufacturer's shell test pressure.

(b) Each newly installed meter manufactured after November 12, 1970, must have been tested to a minimum of 10 psi. (69 kPa) gage.

(c) A rebuilt or repaired tinned steel case meter may not be used at a pressure that is more than 50 percent of the pressure used to test the meter after rebuilding or repairing.

192.361 Service Lines: Installation.

(a) Depth. Each buried service line must be installed with at least 12 inches (305 millimeters) of cover in private property and at least 18 inches (457 millimeters) of cover in streets and roads. However, where an underground structure prevents installation at those depths, the service line must be able to withstand any anticipated external load.

(b) Support and backfill. Each service line must be properly supported on undisturbed or well-compacted soil, and material used for backfill must be free of materials that could damage the pipe or its coating.

(c) Grading for drainage. Where condensate in the gas might cause interruption in the gas supply to the customer, the service line must be graded so as to drain into the main or into drips at the low points in the service line.

(d) Protection against piping strain and external loading. Each service line must be installed so as to minimize anticipated piping strain and external loading.

(e) Installation of service lines into buildings. Each underground service line installed below grade through the outer foundation wall of a building must:

(1) In the case of a metal service line, be protected against corrosion;

(2) In the case of plastic service line, be protected from shearing action and backfill settlement; and

(3) Be sealed at the foundation wall to prevent leakage into the building.

(f) Installation of service lines under buildings. Where an underground service line is installed under a building;

(1) It must be encased in a gas tight conduit;

(2) The conduit and the service line must, if the service line supplies the building it underlies, extend into a normally usable and accessible part of the building; and

(3) The space between the conduit and the service line must be sealed to prevent gas leakage into the building and, if the conduit is sealed at both ends, a vent line from the annular space must extend to a point where gas would not be a hazard, and extend above grade, terminating in a rain and insect resistant fitting.

(g) Locating underground service lines. Each underground nonmetallic service line that is not encased must have a means of locating the pipe that complies with § 192.321(f).

(h) Service lines installed by other than gas company personnel. These person(s) shall certify to the gas company that the line(s) were installed in accordance with this code.

192.363 Service Lines: Valve Requirements.

(a) Each service line must have a service line valve that meets the applicable requirements of Subparts B and D of this part. A valve incorporated in a meter bar, that allows the meter to be bypassed, may not be used as a service line valve.

(b) A soft seat service line valve may not be used if its ability to control the flow of gas could be adversely affected by exposure to anticipated heat.

(c) Each service line valve on a high-pressure service line, installed above ground or in an area where the blowing of gas would be hazardous, must be designed and constructed to minimize the possibility of the removal of the core of the valve with other than specialized tools.

192.365 Service Lines: Location of Valves.

(a) Relation to regulator or meter. Each service line valve must be installed upstream of the regulator or, if there is no regulator, upstream of the meter.

(b) Outside valves. Each service line must have a shut-off valve in a readily accessible location that, if feasible, is outside of the building.

(c) Underground valves. Each underground service line valve must be located in a covered durable curb box or standpipe that allows ready operation of the valve and is supported independently of the service lines.

192.367 Service Lines: General Requirements for Connections to Main Piping.

(a) Location. Each service line connection to a main must be located at the top of the main or, if that is not practical, at the side of the main, unless a suitable protective device is installed to minimize the possibility of dust and moisture being carried from the main into the service line.

(b) Compression-type connection to mains. Each compression-type service line to main connection must:

(1) Be designed and installed to effectively sustain the longitudinal pull-out or thrust forces caused by contraction or expansion of the piping, or by anticipated external or internal loading; and

(2) If gaskets are used in connecting the service line to the main connection fitting, have gaskets that are compatible with the kind of gas in the system.

(3) Plastic service lines connected to mains with mechanical joints shall be joined in accordance with the procedures in Paragraph 192.281(e).

(c) Each plastic service line connected to a main shall have a plastic sleeve installed over the shear point at the tie-in and the sleeve shall extend longitudinally along the line a sufficient length to reduce the concentration of the shear force. If it is not possible to install a sleeve due to foreign lines, mechanical joints, etc., the service line will be supported by well compacted soil or by other means.

192.369 Service Lines: Connection to Cast Iron or Ductile Iron Mains.

(a) Each service line connected to a cast iron or ductile iron main must be connected by a mechanical clamp, by drilling and tapping the main, or by another method meeting the requirements of Paragraph 192.273.

(b) If a threaded tap is being inserted, the requirements of Paragraphs 192.151(b) and (c) must also be met.

192.371 Service Lines: Steel.

Each steel service line to be operated at less than 100 psi. (689 kPa) gage must be constructed of pipe designed for a minimum of 100 psi. (689 kPa) gage.

192.373 Service Lines: Cast Iron and Ductile Iron.

(a) Cast or ductile iron pipe less than 6 inches (152 millimeters) in diameter may not be installed for service lines.

(b) If cast iron pipe or ductile iron pipe is installed for use as a service line, the part of the service line which extends through the building wall must be of steel pipe.

(c) A cast iron or ductile iron service line may not be installed in unstable soil or under a building.

192.375 Service Lines: Plastic.

(a) Each plastic service line outside a building must be installed below ground level, except that it may terminate above the ground and outside the building, if:

(1) The above ground part of the plastic service line is protected against deterioration and external damage; and

(2) The plastic service line is not used to support external loads.

(b) Each plastic service line inside a building must be protected against external damage.

192.377 Service Lines: Copper.

Each copper service line installed within a building must be protected against external damage.

192.379 New Service Lines Not in Use.

Each service line that is not placed in service upon completion of installation must comply with one of the following until the customer is supplied with gas:

(a) The valve that is closed to prevent the flow of gas to the customer must be provided with a locking device or other means designed to prevent the opening of the valve by persons other than those authorized by the operator.

(b) A mechanical device or fitting that will prevent the flow of gas must be installed in the service line or in the meter assembly.

(c) The customer's piping must be physically disconnected from the gas supply and the open pipe ends sealed.

192.381 Service Lines: Excess Flow Valve Performance Standards.

(a) Excess flow valves to be used on single residence service lines that operate continuously throughout the year at a pressure not less than 10 psi. (69 kPa) gage must be manufactured and tested by the manufacturer according to an industry specification, or the manufacturer's specification, to ensure that each valve will:

(1) Function properly up to the maximum operating pressure at which the valve is rated;

(2) Function properly at all temperatures reasonably expected in the operating environment of the service line;

(3) At 10 psi. (69 kPa) gage:

(i) Close at, or not more than 50 percent above, the rated closure flow rate specified by the manufacturer; and

(ii) Upon closure, reduce gas flow -

(A) For an excess flow valve designed to allow pressure to equalize across the valve, to no more than 5 percent of the manufacturer's specified closure flow rate, up to a maximum of 20 cubic feet per hour (0.57 cubic meters per hour); or

(B) For an excess flow valve designed to prevent equalization of pressure across the valve, to no more than 0.4 cubic feet per hour (.01 cubic meters per hour); and

(4) Not to close when the pressure is less than the manufacturer's minimum specified operating pressure and the flow rate is below the manufacturer's minimum specified closure flow rate.

(b) An excess flow valve must meet the applicable requirements of subparts B and D of this part.

(c) An operator must mark or otherwise identify the presence of an excess flow valve in the service line.

(d) An operator shall locate an excess flow valve as near as practical to the fitting connecting the service line to its source of gas supply.

(e) An operator should not install an excess flow valve on a service line where the operator has prior experience with contaminants in the gas stream, where these contaminants could be expected to cause the excess flow valve to malfunction or where the excess flow valve would interfere with the necessary operation and maintenance activities on the service, such as blowing liquids from the line.

192.383 Excess Flow Valve Customer Notification.

(a) Definitions. As used in this section:

Costs associated with installation means the costs directly connected with installing an excess flow valve, for example, costs of parts, labor, inventory and procurement. It does not include maintenance and replacement costs until such costs are incurred.

Replaced service line means a natural gas service line where the fitting that connects the service line to the main is replaced or the piping connected to this fitting is replaced.

Service line customer means the person who pays the gas bill, or where service has not yet been established, the person requesting service.

(b) Which customers must receive notification. Notification is required on each newly installed service line or replaced service line that operates continuously throughout the year at a pressure not less than 68.9 kPa (10 psig) and that serves a single residence. On these lines an operator of a natural gas distribution system must notify the service line customer once in writing.

(c) What to put in the written notice.

(1) An explanation for the customer that an excess flow valve meeting the performance standards prescribed under § 192.381 is available for the operator to install if the customer bears the costs associated with installation;

(2) An explanation for the customer of the potential safety benefits that may be derived from installing an excess flow valve. The explanation must include that an excess flow valve is designed to shut off the flow of gas automatically if the service line breaks;

(3) A description of installation, maintenance, and replacement costs. The notice must explain that if the customer requests the operator to install an EFV, the customer bears all costs associated with installation, and what those costs are. The notice must alert the customer that costs for maintaining and replacing an EFV may later be incurred, and what those costs will be, to the extent known.

(d) When notification and installation must be made.

(1) After February 3, 1999 an operator must notify each service line customer set forth in paragraph (b) of this section:

(i) On new service lines when the customer applies for service.

(ii) On replaced service lines when the operator determines the service line will be replaced.

(2) If a service line customer requests installation an operator must install the EFV at a mutually agreeable date.

(e) What records are required.

(1) An operator must make the following records available for inspection by the Administrator or a State agency participating under 49 U.S.C. 60105 or 60106.

(i) A copy of the notice currently in use; and

(ii) Evidence that notice has been sent to the service line customers set forth in paragraph (b) of this section, within the previous three years.

(2) [Reserved]

(f) When notification is not required. The notification requirements do not apply if the operator can demonstrate -

(1) That the operator will voluntarily install an excess flow valve or that the state or local jurisdiction requires installation;

(2) That excess flow valves meeting the performance standards in §192.381 are not available to the operator;

(3) That an operator has prior experience with contaminants in the gas stream that could interfere with the operation of an excess flow valve, cause loss of service to a residence, or interfere with necessary operation or maintenance activities, such as blowing liquids from the line.

(4) That an emergency or short time notice replacement situation made it impractical for the operator to notify a service line customer before replacing a service line. Examples of these situations would be where an operator has to replace a service line quickly because of -

(i) Third party excavation damage;

(ii) Grade 1 leaks as defined in the Appendix G - 192 - 11 of the Gas Piping Technology Committee guide for gas transmission and distribution systems;

(iii) A short notice service line relocation request.

SUBPART I -REQUIREMENTS FOR CORROSION CONTROL

192.451 Scope.

This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for the protection of metallic pipelines from external, internal, and atmospheric corrosion.

192.452 Applicability to Converted Pipelines.

Notwithstanding the date the pipeline was installed or any earlier deadlines for compliance, each pipeline which qualifies for use under this part in accordance with Paragraph 192.14 must meet the requirements of this subpart specifically applicable to pipelines installed before August 1, 1971, and all other applicable requirements within 1 year after the pipeline is readied for service. However, the requirements of this subpart specifically applicable to pipelines installed after July 31, 1971, apply if the pipeline substantially meets those requirements before it is readied for service or it is a segment which is replaced, relocated, or substantially altered.

192.453 General.

The corrosion control procedures required by Paragraph 192.605(b)(2), including those for design, installation, operation and maintenance of cathodic protection systems, must be carried out by, or under the direction of, a person qualified by experience and training in pipeline corrosion control methods.

192.455 External Corrosion Control: Buried or Submerged Pipelines Installed After July 31, 1971.

(a) Except as provided in Paragraphs (b), (c), and (f) of this section, each buried or submerged pipeline installed after July 31, 1971, must be protected against external corrosion, including the following:

(1) It must have an external protective coating meeting the requirements of Paragraph 192.461.

(2) It must have a cathodic protection system designed to protect the pipeline in its entirety in accordance with this subpart, installed and placed in operation within one year after completion of construction.

(b) An operator need not comply with Paragraph (a) of this section, if the operator can demonstrate by tests, investigation, or experience in the area of application, including, as a minimum, soil resistivity measurements and tests for corrosion accelerating bacteria, that a corrosive environment does not exist. However, within 6 months after an installation made pursuant to the preceding sentence, the operator shall conduct tests, including pipe-to-soil potential measurements with respect to either a continuous reference electrode or an electrode using close spacing, not to exceed 20 feet (6 meters), and soil resistivity measurements at potential profile peak locations, to adequately evaluate the potential profile along the entire pipeline. If the tests made indicate that a corrosive condition exists, the pipeline must be cathodically protected in accordance with Paragraph (a)(2) of this section.

(c) An operator need not comply with Paragraph (a) of this section, if the operator can demonstrate by tests, investigation, or experience that:

(1) For a copper pipeline, a corrosive environment does not exist; or

(2) For a temporary pipeline with an operating period of service not to exceed 5 years beyond installation, corrosion during the 5 year period of service of the pipeline will not be detrimental to public safety.

(d) Notwithstanding the provisions of Paragraph (b) or (c) of this section, if a pipeline is externally coated, it must be cathodically protected in accordance with Paragraph (a)(2) of this section.

(e) Aluminum may not be installed in a buried or submerged pipeline if that aluminum is exposed to an environment with a natural pH in excess of 8, unless tests or experience indicates its suitability in the particular environment involved.

(f) This section does not apply to electrically isolated, metal alloy fittings in plastic pipelines if:

(1) For the size fitting to be used, an operator can show by tests, investigation, or experience in the area of application, that adequate corrosion control is provided by the alloy composition; and

(2) The fitting is designed to prevent leakage caused by localized corrosion pitting.

192.457 External Corrosion Control: Buried or Submerged Pipelines Installed Before August 1, 1971.

(a) Except for buried piping at compressor, regulator, and measuring stations, each buried or submerged transmission line installed before August 1, 1971, that has an effective external coating must be cathodically protected along the entire area that is effectively coated, in accordance with this subpart. For the purposes of this subpart, a pipeline does not have an effective external coating if its cathodic protection current requirements are substantially the same as if it were bare. The operator shall make tests to determine the cathodic protection current requirements.

(b) Except for cast iron or ductile iron, each of the following buried or submerged pipelines installed before August 1, 1971, must be cathodically protected in accordance with this subpart in areas in which active corrosion is found:

(1) Bare or ineffectively coated transmission lines.

(2) Bare or coated pipes at compressor, regulator, and measuring stations.

(3) Bare or coated distribution lines.

192.459 External corrosion control: Examination of buried pipeline when exposed.

Whenever an operator has knowledge that any portion of a buried pipeline is exposed, the exposed portion, if bare or the coating is deteriorated, must be examined for evidence of external corrosion. If external corrosion requiring remedial action under Secs. 192.483 through 192.489 is found, the operator shall investigate circumferentially and longitudinally beyond the exposed portion (by visual examination, indirect method, or both) to determine whether additional corrosion requiring remedial action exists in the vicinity of the exposed portion.

192.461 External Corrosion Control: Protective Coating.

(a) Each external protective coating, whether conductive or insulating, applied for the purpose of external corrosion control must:

(1) Be applied on a properly prepared surface;

(2) Have sufficient adhesion to the metal surface to effectively resist underfilm migration of moisture;

(3) Be sufficiently ductile to resist cracking;

(4) Have sufficient strength to resist damage due to handling and soil stress; and

(5) Have properties compatible with any supplemental cathodic protection.

(b) Each external protective coating which is an electrically insulating type must also have low moisture absorption and high electrical resistance.

(c) Each external protective coating must be inspected just prior to lowering the pipe into the ditch and backfilling, and any damage detrimental to effective corrosion control must be repaired.

(d) Each external protective coating must be protected from damage resulting from adverse ditch conditions or damage from supporting blocks.

(e) If coated pipe is installed by boring, driving, or other similar methods, precautions must be taken to minimize damage to the coating during installation.

192.463 External Corrosion Control: Cathodic Protection.

(a) Each cathodic protection system required by this subpart must provide a level of cathodic protection that complies with one or more of the applicable criteria contained in Appendix D of this subpart. If none of these criteria is applicable, the cathodic protection system must provide a level of cathodic protection at least equal to that provided by compliance with one or more of these criteria.

(b) If amphoteric metals are included in a buried or submerged pipeline containing a metal of different anodic potential:

(1) The amphoteric metals must be electrically isolated from the remainder of the pipeline and cathodically protected; or

(2) The entire buried or submerged pipeline must be cathodically protected at a cathodic potential that meets the requirements of Appendix D of this part for amphoteric metals.

(c) The amount of cathodic protection must be controlled so as not to damage the protective coating or the pipe.

192.465 External Corrosion Control: Monitoring.

(a) Each pipeline that is under cathodic protection must be tested at least once each calendar year, but with intervals not exceeding 15 months, to determine whether the cathodic protection meets the requirements of Paragraph 192.463. However, if tests at those intervals are impractical for separately protected short sections of mains or transmission lines, not in excess of 100 feet (30 meters), or separately protected service lines, these pipelines may be surveyed on a sampling basis. At least 10 percent of these protected structures, distributed over the entire system must be surveyed each calendar year, with a different 10 percent checked each subsequent year, so that the entire system is tested in each 10 year period.

(b) Each cathodic protection rectifier or other impressed current power source must be inspected six times each calendar year, but with intervals not exceeding 22 months, to insure that it is operating. Evidence of proper functioning may be current output, normal power consumption, a signal indicating normal D.C. power, or satisfactory electrical state of the protected piping.

(c) Each reverse current switch, each diode, and each interference bond whose failure would jeopardize structure protection must be electrically checked for proper performance six times each calendar year, but with intervals not exceeding 22 months. Each other interference bond must be checked at least once each calendar year, but with intervals not exceeding 15 months.

(d) Each operator shall take prompt remedial action to correct any deficiencies indicated by the monitoring.

(e) After the initial evaluation required by § § 192.455(b) and (c) and 192.457(b), each operator must, not less than every 3 years at intervals not exceeding 39 months, reevaluate its unprotected pipelines and cathodically protect them in accordance with this subpart in areas in which active corrosion is found. The operator must determine the areas of active corrosion by electrical survey. However, on distribution lines and where an electrical survey is impractical on transmission lines, areas of active corrosion may be determined by other means that include review and analysis of leak repair and inspection records, corrosion monitoring records, exposed pipe inspection records, and the pipeline environment. In this section:

(1) Active corrosion means continuing corrosion which, unless controlled, could result in a condition that is detrimental to public safety.

(2) Electrical survey means a series of closely spaced pipe-to-soil readings over a pipeline that are subsequently analyzed to identify locations where a corrosive current is leaving the pipeline.

(3) Pipeline environment includes soil resistivity (high or low), soil moisture (wet or dry), soil contaminants that may promote corrosive activity, and other known conditions that could affect the probability of active corrosion.

192.467 External Corrosion Control: Electrical Isolation.

(a) Each buried or submerged pipeline must be electrically isolated from other underground metallic structures, unless the pipeline and the other structures are electrically interconnected and cathodically protected as a single unit.

(b) One or more insulating devices must be installed where electrical isolation of a portion of a pipeline is necessary to facilitate the application of corrosion control.

(c) Except for unprotected copper inserted in ferrous pipe, each pipeline must be electrically isolated from metallic casings that are a part of the underground system. However, if isolation is not achieved because it is impractical, other measures must be taken to minimize corrosion of the pipeline inside the casing.

(d) Inspection and electrical tests must be made to assure that electrical isolation is adequate.

(e) An insulating device may not be installed in an area where a combustible atmosphere is anticipated unless precautions are taken to prevent arcing.

(f) Where a pipeline is located in close proximity to electrical transmission tower footings, ground cables or counterpoise, or in other areas where fault currents or unusual risk of lightning may be anticipated, it must be provided with protection against damage due to fault currents or lightning, and protective measures must also be taken at insulating devices.

192.469 External Corrosion Control: Test Stations.

Each pipeline under cathodic protection required by this subpart must have sufficient test stations or other contact points for electrical measurement to determine the adequacy of cathodic protection.

192.471 External Corrosion Control: Test Leads.

(a) Each test lead wire must be connected to the pipeline so as to remain mechanically secure and electrically conductive.

(b) Each test lead wire must be attached to the pipeline so as to minimize stress concentration on the pipe.

(c) Each bared test lead wire and bared metallic area at point of connection to the pipeline must be coated with an electrical insulating material compatible with the pipe coating and the insulation on the wire.

192.473 External Corrosion Control: Interference Currents.

(a) Each operator whose pipeline system is subjected to stray currents shall have in effect a continuing program to minimize the detrimental effects of such currents.

(b) Each impressed current type cathodic protection system or galvanic anode system must be designed and installed so as to minimize any adverse effects on existing adjacent underground metallic structures.

192.475 Internal Corrosion Control: General.

(a) Corrosive gas may not be transported by pipeline, unless the corrosive effect of the gas on the pipeline has been investigated and steps have been taken to minimize internal corrosion.

(b) Whenever any pipe is removed from a pipeline for any reason, the internal surface must be inspected for evidence of corrosion. If internal corrosion is found:

(1) The adjacent pipe must be investigated to determine the extent of internal corrosion;

(2) Replacement must be made to the extent required by the applicable Paragraphs of 192.485, 192.487, or 192.489; and

(3) Steps must be taken to minimize the internal corrosion.

(c) Gas containing more than 0.1 grain of hydrogen sulfide per 100 cubic feet (2.32 milligrams/m³) at standard conditions may not be stored in pipe-type or bottle-type holders.

192.477 Internal Corrosion Control: Monitoring.

If corrosive gas is being transported, coupons or other suitable means must be used to determine the effectiveness of the steps taken to minimize internal corrosion. Each coupon or other means of monitoring internal corrosion must be checked two times each calendar year, but with intervals not exceeding 7½ months.

192.479 Atmospheric Corrosion Control: General.

Sec. 192.479 Atmospheric corrosion control: General.

(a) Each operator must clean and coat each pipeline or portion of pipeline that is exposed to the atmosphere, except pipelines under paragraph (c) of this section.

(b) Coating material must be suitable for the prevention of atmospheric corrosion.

(c) Except portions of pipelines in offshore splash zones or soil-to-air interfaces, the operator need not protect from atmospheric corrosion any pipeline for which the operator demonstrates by test, investigation, or experience appropriate to the environment of the pipeline that corrosion will--

(1) Only be a light surface oxide; or

(2) Not affect the safe operation of the pipeline before the next scheduled inspection.

192.481 Atmospheric Corrosion Control: Monitoring.

(a) Each operator must inspect each pipeline or portion of pipeline that is exposed to the atmosphere for evidence of atmospheric corrosion, as follows:

If the pipeline is located:	Then the frequency of inspection is:
Onshore ....................	.At least once every 3 calendar years, but with intervals not exceeding 39 months
Offshore ...................	... At least once each calendar year, but with intervals not exceeding 15 months

(b) During inspections the operator must give particular attention to pipe at soil-to-air interfaces, under thermal insulation, under disbonded coatings, at pipe supports, in splash zones, at deck penetrations, and in spans over water.

(c) If atmospheric corrosion is found during an inspection, the operator must provide protection against the corrosion as required by Sec. 192.479.

192.483 Remedial Measures: General.

(a) Each segment of metallic pipe that replaces pipe removed from a buried or submerged pipeline because of external corrosion must have a properly prepared surface and must be provided with an external protective coating that meets the requirements of Paragraph 192.461.

(b) Each segment of metallic pipe that replaces pipe removed from a buried or submerged pipeline because of external corrosion must be cathodically protected in accordance with this subpart.

(c) Except for cast iron or ductile iron pipe, each segment of buried or submerged pipe that is required to be repaired because of external corrosion must be cathodically protected in accordance with this subpart.

192.485 Remedial Measures: Transmission Lines.

(a) General corrosion. Each segment of transmission line with general corrosion and with a remaining wall thickness less than that required for the MAOP of the pipeline must be replaced or the operating pressure reduced commensurate with the strength of the pipe based on actual remaining wall thickness. However, corroded pipe may be repaired by a method that reliable engineering tests and analyses show can permanently restore the serviceability of the pipe. Corrosion pitting so closely grouped as to affect the overall strength of the pipe is considered general corrosion for the purpose of this paragraph.

(b) Localized corrosion pitting. Each segment of transmission line pipe with localized corrosion pitting to a degree where leakage might result must be replaced or repaired, or the operating pressure must be reduced commensurate with the strength of the pipe, based on the actual remaining wall thickness in the pits.

(c) Under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, the strength of pipe based on actual remaining wall thickness may be determined by the procedure in ASME/ANSI B31G or the procedure in AGA Pipeline Research Committee Project PR 3-805 (with RSTRENG disk). Both procedures apply to corroded regions that do not penetrate the pipe wall, subject to the limitations prescribed in the procedures.

192.487 Remedial Measures: Distribution Lines Other Than Cast Iron or Ductile Iron Lines.

(a) General corrosion. Except for cast iron or ductile iron pipe, each segment of generally corroded distribution line pipe with a remaining wall thickness less than that required for the MAOP of the pipeline, or a remaining wall thickness less than 30 percent of the nominal wall thickness, must be replaced. However, corroded pipe may be repaired by a method that reliable engineering tests and analyses show can permanently restore the serviceability of the pipe. Corrosion pitting so closely grouped as to affect the overall strength of the pipe is considered general corrosion for the purpose of this paragraph.

(b) Localized corrosion pitting. Except for cast iron or ductile iron pipe, each segment of distribution line pipe with localized corrosion pitting to a degree where leakage might result must be replaced or repaired.

192.489 Remedial Measures: Cast Iron and Ductile Iron Pipelines.

(a) General graphitization. Each segment of cast iron or ductile iron pipe on which general graphitization is found to a degree where a fracture or any leakage might result, must be replaced.

(b) Localized graphitization. Each segment of cast iron or ductile iron pipe on which localized graphitization is found to a degree where any leakage might result, must be replaced or repaired, or sealed by internal sealing methods adequate to prevent or arrest any leakage.

192.491 Corrosion Control Records.

(a) Each operator shall maintain records or maps to show the location of cathodically protected piping, cathodic protection facilities, other than unrecorded galvanic anodes installed before August 1, 1971, and neighboring structures bonded to the cathodic protection system.

(b) Each of the following records must be retained for as long as the pipeline remains in service:

(1) Each record or map required by Paragraph (a) of this section;

(2) Records of each test, survey, or inspection required by this subpart, in sufficient detail to demonstrate the adequacy of corrosion control measures or that a corrosive condition does not exist.

SUBPART J -TEST REQUIREMENTS

192.501 Scope.

This subpart prescribes minimum leak-test and strength-test requirements for pipelines.

192.503 General Requirements.

(a) No person may operate a new segment of pipeline, or return to service a segment of pipeline that has been relocated or replaced, until:

(1) It has been tested in accordance with this subpart and paragraph 192.619 to substantiate the maximum allowable operating pressure; and

(2) Each detected leak has been eliminated.

(b) The test medium must be liquid, air, natural gas, or inert gas that is:

(1) Compatible with the material of which the pipeline is constructed;

(2) Relatively free of sedimentary materials; and

(3) Except for natural gas, nonflammable.

(c) Except as provided in Paragraph 192.505(a), if air, natural gas, or inert gas is used as the test medium, the following maximum hoop stress limitations apply:

Maximum Hoop Stress Allowed as Percentage of SMYS
Class Location	Natural Gas	Air or Inert Gas
1 .............	...............................80..........................	................. 80
2 .............	...............................30..........................	................. 75
3 .............	...............................30..........................	................. 50
4 .............	...............................30..........................	................. 40

(d) Each joint used to tie-in a test segment of pipeline is excepted from the specific test requirements of this subpart, but each non-welded joint must be leak tested at not less than its operating pressure.

192.505 Strength Test Requirements for Steel Pipeline to Operate at a Hoop Stress of 30 Percent or More of SMYS.

(a) Except for service lines, each segment of a steel pipeline that is to operate at a hoop stress of 30 percent or more SMYS must be strength tested in accordance with this section to substantiate the proposed maximum allowable operating pressure. In addition, in a Class 1 or Class 2 location, if there is a building intended for human occupancy within 300 feet (91 meters) of a pipeline, a hydrostatic test must be conducted to a test pressure of at least 125 percent of maximum operating pressure on that segment of the pipeline within 300 feet (91 meters) of such a building, but in no event may the test section be less than 600 feet (183 meters) unless the length of the newly installed or relocated pipe is less than 600 feet (183 meters). However, if the buildings are evacuated while the hoop stress exceeds 50 percent of SMYS, air or inert gas may be used as the test medium.

(b) In a Class 1 or Class 2 location, each compressor station, regulator station, and measuring station, must be tested to at least Class 3 location test requirements.

(c) Except as provided in Paragraph (e) of this section, the strength test must be conducted by maintaining the pressure at or above the test pressure for at least 8 hours.

(d) If a component other than pipe is the only item being replaced or added to a pipeline, a strength test after installation is not required, if the manufacturer of the component certifies that:

(1) The component was tested to at least the pressure required for the pipeline to which it is being added; or

(2) The component was manufactured under a quality control system that ensures that each item manufactured is at least equal in strength to a prototype and that the prototype was tested to at least the pressure required for the pipeline to which it is being added.

(e) For fabricated units and short sections of pipe, for which a post installation test is impractical, a preinstallation strength test must be conducted by maintaining the pressure at or above the test pressure for at least 4 hours.

192.507 Test Requirements for Pipelines to Operate at a Hoop Stress Less Than 30 Percent of SMYS and at or Above 100 PSI. (689 kPa) Gage.

Except for service lines and plastic pipelines, each segment of a pipeline that is to be operated at a hoop stress less than 30 percent of SMYS and at or above 100 psi. (689 kPa) gage must be tested in accordance with the following:

(a) The test procedure used must reasonably ensure discovery of leaks in the segment being tested.

(b) If, during the test, the segment is to be stressed to 20 percent or more of SMYS and natural gas, inert gas, or air is the test medium:

(1) A leak test must be made at a pressure between 100 psi. (689 kPa) gage and the pressure required to produce a hoop stress of 20 percent of SMYS; or

(2) The line must be walked to check for leaks while the hoop stress is held at approximately 20 percent of SMYS.

(c) The pressure must be maintained at or above the test pressure for at least 1 hour.

192.509 Test Requirements for Pipelines to Operate Below 100 PSI. (689 kPa) Gage.

Except for service lines and plastic pipelines, each segment of a pipeline that is to be operated below 100 psig. must be leak tested in accordance with the following:

(a) The test procedure used must reasonably ensure discovery of leaks in the segment being tested.

(b) Each main that is to be operated at less than 1 psi. (6.9 kPa) gage must be tested to at least 10 psi. (69 kPa) gage and each main to be operated at or above 1 psi. (6.9 kPa) gage must be tested to at least 90 psi. (621 kPa) gage.

192.511 Test Requirements for Service Lines.

(a) Each segment of a service line (other than plastic) must be leak tested in accordance with this section before being placed in service. If feasible, the service line connection to the main must be included in the test; if not feasible, it must be given a leakage test at the operating pressure when placed in service.

(b) Each segment of a service line (other than plastic) intended to be operated at pressure of less than 1 psi. (6.9 kPa) gage shall be given a leak test at a pressure of 10 psi. (69 kPa) gage. This test shall be conducted with a 3 inch (76 millimeters) dial gauge with a maximum scale of 30 psi. (207 kPa) gage. This test may be conducted with a mercury gauge capable of testing to 10 inches (254 millimeters) of mercury.

(c) Each segment of a service line (other than plastic) intended to be operated at a pressure of at least 1 psi. (6.9 kPa) gage but not more than 40 psi. (276 kPa) gage must be given a leak test at a pressure of not less than 50 psi. (345 kPa) gage on a 100 psi. (689 kPa) gage scale gauge.

(d) Each segment of a service line (other than plastic) intended to be operated at pressures of more than 40 psig. must be tested to at least 90 psig. on 100 psig. scale gauge, except that each segment of a steel service line stressed to 20 percent or more of SMYS must be tested in accordance with Paragraph 192.507.

(e) The test procedure used must reasonably ensure discovery of leaks in the segment being tested.

192.513 Test Requirements for Plastic Pipelines.

(a) Each segment of a plastic pipeline must be tested in accordance with this section.

(b) The test procedure used must reasonably ensure discovery of leaks in the segment being tested.

(c) The test pressure must be at least 150 percent of the maximum operating pressure or 50 psi. (345 kPa) gage whichever is greater. However, the maximum test pressure may not be more than three times the pressure determined under Paragraph 192.121, at a temperature not less than the pipe temperature during the test.

(d) During the test, the temperature of thermoplastic material may not be more than 100°F (38°C), or the temperature at which the material's long-term hydrostatic strength has been determined under the listed specification, whichever is greater.

192.515 Environmental Protection and Safety Requirements.

(a) In conducting tests under this subpart, each operator shall ensure that every reasonable precaution is taken to protect its employees and the general public during the testing. Whenever the hoop stress of the segment of the pipeline being tested will exceed 50 percent of SMYS, the operator shall take all practicable steps to keep persons not working on the testing operation outside of the testing area until the pressure is reduced to or below the proposed maximum allowable operating pressure.

(b) The operator shall insure that the test medium is disposed of in a manner that will minimize damage to the environment.

192.517 Records.

(a) Each operator shall make and retain for the useful life of the pipeline, a record of each test performed under Paragraphs 192.505 and 192.507. The record must contain at least the following information:

(1) The operator's name, the name of the operator's employee responsible for making the test and the name of any test company used.

(2) Test medium used.

(3) Test pressure.

(4) Test duration.

(5) Pressure recording charts or other records of pressure readings.

(6) Evaluation variations, whenever significant for the particular test.

(7) Leaks and failures noted and their disposition.

(b) Each operator must maintain a record of each test required by Sec. Sec. 192.509, 192.511, and 192.513 for at least 5 years.

SUBPART K -UPRATING

192.551 Scope.

This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for increasing maximum allowable operating pressures (uprating) for pipelines.

192.553 General.

(a) Pressure increases. Whenever the requirements of this subpart require that an increase in operating pressure be made in increments, the pressure must be increased gradually, at a rate that can be controlled, and in accordance with the following:

(1) At the end of each incremental increase, the pressure must be held constant while the entire segment of pipeline that is affected is checked for leaks.

(2) Each leak detected must be repaired before a further pressure increase is made, except that a leak determined not to be potentially hazardous need not be repaired, if it is monitored during the pressure increase and it does not become potentially hazardous.

(b) Records. Each operator who uprates a segment of pipeline shall retain for the life of the segment a record of each investigation required by this subpart, of all work performed, and of each pressure test conducted, in connection with the uprating.

(c) Written plan. Each operator who uprates a segment of pipeline shall establish a written procedure that will ensure that each applicable requirement of this subpart is complied with.

(d) Limitation on increase in maximum allowable operating pressure. Except as provided in Paragraph 192.555(c), a new maximum allowable operating pressure established under this subpart may not exceed the maximum that would be allowed under Sec. 192.619 and 192.621 for a new segment of pipeline constructed of the same materials in the same location. However, when uprating a steel pipeline, if any variable necessary to determine the design pressure under the design formula (Paragraph 192.105) is unknown, the MAOP may be increased as provided in Paragraph 192.619(a)(1).

192.555 Uprating To a Pressure That Will Produce a Hoop Stress of 30 Percent or More of SMYS in Steel Pipelines.

(a) Unless the requirements of this section have been met, no person may subject any segment of a steel pipeline to an operating pressure that will produce a hoop stress of 30 percent or more of SMYS and that is above the established maximum allowable operating pressure.

(b) Before increasing operating pressure above the previously established pressure the operator shall:

(1) Review the design, operating and maintenance history and previous testing of the segment of pipeline and determine whether the proposed increase is safe and consistent with the requirements of this part; and

(2) Make any repairs, replacements, or alterations in the segment of pipeline that are necessary for safe operation at the increased pressure.

(c) After complying with Paragraph (b) of this section, an operator may increase the maximum allowable operating pressure of a segment of pipeline constructed before September 12, 1970, to the highest pressure that is permitted under Paragraph 192.619, using as test pressure the highest pressure to which the segment of pipeline was previously subjected (either in a strength test or in actual operation).

(d) After complying with Paragraph (b) of this section, an operator that does not qualify under Paragraph (c) of this section may increase the previously established maximum allowable operating pressure if at least one of the following requirements is met:

(1) The segment of pipeline is successfully tested in accordance with the requirements of this part for a new line of the same material in the same location.

(2) An increased maximum allowable operating pressure may be established for a segment of pipeline in a Class 1 location if the line has not previously been tested, and if:

(i) It is impractical to test it in accordance with the requirements of this part;

(ii) The new maximum operating pressure does not exceed 80 percent of that allowed for a new line of the same design in the same location; and

(iii) The operator determines that the new maximum allowable operating pressure is consistent with the condition of the segment of pipeline and the design requirements of this part.

(e) Where a segment of pipeline is uprated in accordance with Paragraph (c) or (d)(2) of this section, the increase in pressure must be made in increments that are equal to:

(1) 10 percent of the pressure before the uprating; or

(2) 25 percent of the total pressure increase, whichever produces the fewer number of increments.

192.557 Uprating Steel Pipelines to a Pressure That Will Produce a Hoop Stress Less Than 30 Percent of SMYS; Plastic, Cast Iron, and Ductile Iron Pipelines.

(a) Unless the requirements of this section have been met, no person may subject:

(1) A segment of steel pipeline to an operating pressure that will produce a hoop stress less than 30 percent of SMYS and that is above the previously established maximum allowable operating pressure; or

(2) A plastic, cast iron, or ductile iron pipeline segment to an operating pressure that is above the previously established maximum allowable operating pressure.

(b) Before increasing operating pressure above the previously established maximum allowable operating pressure, the operator shall:

(1) Review the design, operating, and maintenance history of the segment of pipeline;

(2) Make a leakage survey (if it has been more than 1 year since the last survey) and repair any leaks that are found, except that a leak determined not to be potentially hazardous need not be repaired if it is monitored during the pressure increase and it does not become potentially hazardous;

(3) Make any repairs, replacements or alterations in the segment of pipeline that are necessary for safe operation at the increased pressure;

(4) Reinforce or anchor offsets, bends and dead ends in pipe joined by compression couplings or bell and spigot joints to prevent failure of the pipe joint, if the offset, bend or dead end is exposed in an excavation;

(5) Isolate the segment of pipeline in which the pressure is to be increased from any adjacent segment that will continue to be operated at a lower pressure; and

(6) If the pressure in mains or service lines, or both, is to be higher than the pressure delivered to the customer, install a service regulator on each service line and test each regulator to determine that it is functioning. Pressure may be increased as necessary to test each regulator, after a regulator has been installed on each pipeline subject to the increased pressure.

(c) After complying with Paragraph (b) of this section, the increase in maximum allowable operating pressure must be made in increments that are equal to 10 psi. (69 kPa) gage or 25 percent of the total pressure increase, whichever produces the fewer number of increments. Whenever the requirements of Paragraph (b)(6) of this section apply, there must be at least two approximately equal incremental increases.

(d) If records for cast iron or ductile iron pipeline facilities are not complete enough to determine stresses produced by internal pressure, trench loading, rolling loads, beam stresses, and other bending loads, in evaluating the level of safety of the pipeline when operating at the proposed increased pressure, the following procedures must be followed:

(1) In estimating the stresses, if the original laying conditions cannot be ascertained, the operator shall assume that cast iron pipe was supported on blocks with tamped backfill and that ductile iron pipe was laid without blocks with tamped backfill.

(2) Unless the actual maximum cover depth is known, the operator shall measure the actual cover in at least three places where the cover is most likely to be greatest and shall use the greatest cover measured.

(3) Unless the actual nominal wall thickness is known, the operator shall determine the wall thickness by cutting and measuring coupons from at least three separate pipe lengths. The coupons must be cut from pipe lengths in areas where the cover depth is most likely to be the greatest. The average of all measurements taken must be increased by the allowance indicated in the following table:

ALLOWANCE Inches (millimeters) Cast Iron Pipe
Pipe Size Inches (millimeters)	Pit Cast Pipe	Centrifugally Cast Pipe	Ductile Iron Pipe
2-8(51-203)	0.075(1.91)	0.065(1.65)	0.065(1.65)
10-12(254 to 305)	0.08(2.03)	0.07(1.78)	0.07(1.78)
14-24(356 to 610)	0.08(2.03)	0.08(2.03)	0.075(1.91)
30-42(762 to 1067)	0.09(2.29)	0.09(2.29)	0.075(1.91)
48(1219)	0.09(2.29)	0.09(2.29)	0.08(2.03)
54-60(1372 to 1524)	0.09(2.29)

(4) For cast iron pipe, unless the pipe manufacturing process is known, the operator shall assume that the pipe is pit cast pipe with a bursting tensile strength of 11,000 psi. (76 MPa) gage and a modulus of rupture of 31,000 psi. (214 MPa) gage.

SUBPART L -OPERATIONS

192.601 Scope.

This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for the operation of pipeline facilities.

192.603 General Provisions.

(a) No person may operate a segment of pipeline unless it is operated in accordance with this subpart.

(b) Each operator shall keep records necessary to administer the procedures established under paragraph 192.605.

(c) The Administrator or the State Agency that has submitted a current certification under the pipeline safety laws ( 49 U.S.C. 60101 et seq) with respect to the pipeline facility governed by an operator's plans and procedures may, after notice and opportunity for hearing as provided in 49 CFR 190.237 or the relevant State procedures, require the operator to amend its plans and procedures as necessary to provide a reasonable level of safety.

192.605 Procedural Manual for Operations, Maintenance, and Emergencies.

(a) General. Each operator shall prepare and follow for each pipeline, a manual of written procedures for conducting operations and maintenance activities and for emergency response. For transmission lines, the manual must also include procedures for handling abnormal operations. This manual must be reviewed and updated by the operator at intervals not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar year. This manual must be prepared before operations of a pipeline system commence. Appropriate parts of the manual must be kept at locations where operations and maintenance activities are conducted.

(b) Maintenance and normal operations. The manual required by paragraph (a) of this section must include procedures for the following, if applicable, to provide safety during maintenance and operations:

(1) Operating, maintaining, and repairing the pipeline in accordance with each of the requirements of this subpart and subpart M of this part.

(2) Controlling corrosion in accordance with the operations and maintenance requirements of subpart I of this part.

(3) Making construction records, maps, and operating history available to appropriate personnel.

(4) Gathering of data needed for reporting incidents under Part 191 in a timely and effective manner.

(5) Starting up and shutting down any part of the pipeline in a manner designed to assure operation within the MAOP limits prescribed by this part, plus the build-up allowed for operation of pressure-limiting and control devices.

(6) Maintaining compressor stations, including provisions for isolating units or sections of pipe and for purging before returning to service.

(7) Starting, operating and shutting down gas compressor units.

(8) Periodically reviewing the work done by operator personnel to determine the effectiveness, and adequacy of the procedures used in normal operation and maintenance and modifying the procedures when deficiencies are found.

(9) Taking adequate precautions in excavated trenches to protect personnel from the hazards of unsafe accumulations of vapor or gas, and making available when needed at the excavation emergency rescue equipment, including a breathing apparatus and, a rescue harness and line.

(10) Systematic and routine testing and inspection of pipe-type or bottle-type holders including:

(i) Provision for detecting external corrosion before the strength of the container has been impaired;

(ii) Periodic sampling and testing of gas in storage to determine the dew point of vapors contained in the stored gas which, if condensed, might cause internal corrosion or interfere with the safe operation of the storage plant; and

(iii) Periodic inspection and testing of pressure limiting equipment to determine that it is in safe operating condition and has adequate capacity.

(11) Responding promptly to a report of a gas odor inside or near a building, unless the operator's emergency procedures under Sec. 192.615(a)(3) specifically apply to these reports.

(c) Abnormal operations. For transmission lines, the manual required by subparagraph (a) of this paragraph must include procedures for the following to provide safety when operating design limits have been exceeded:

(1) Responding to, investigating, and correcting the cause of:

(i) Unintended closure of valves or shutdowns;

(ii) Increase or decrease in pressure or flow rate outside normal operating limits;

(iii) Loss of communications;

(iv) Operation of any safety device; and

(v) Any other foreseeable malfunction of a component, deviation from normal operation, or personnel error which may result in a hazard to persons or property.

(2) Checking variations from normal operation after abnormal operation has ended at sufficient critical locations in the system to determine continued integrity and safe operation.

(3) Notifying responsible operator personnel when notice of an abnormal operation is received.

(4) Periodically reviewing the response of operator personnel to determine the effectiveness of the procedures controlling abnormal operation and taking corrective action where deficiencies are found.

(5) The requirements of this paragraph do not apply to natural gas distribution operators that are operating transmission lines in connection with their distribution system.

(d) Safety-related condition reports. The manual required by subparagraph (a) of this paragraph must include instructions enabling personnel who perform operation and maintenance activities to recognize conditions that potentially may be safety-related conditions that are subject to the reporting requirements of paragraph 191.23.

(e) Surveillance, emergency response, and accident investigation. The procedures required by paragraphs 192.613(a), 192.615, and 192.617 must be included in the manual required by paragraph (a) of this section.

192.607 [Removed and Reserved]

192.609 Change in Class Location: Required Study.

Whenever an increase in population density indicates a change in class location for a segment of an existing steel pipeline operating at hoop stress that is more than 40 percent of SMYS, or indicates that the hoop stress corresponding to the established maximum allowable operating pressure for a segment of existing pipeline is not commensurate with the present class location, the operator shall immediately make a study to determine:

(a) The present class location for the segment involved;

(b) The design, construction, and testing procedures followed in the original construction, and a comparison of these procedures with those required for the present class location by the applicable provisions of this part;

(c) The physical condition of the segment to the extent it can be ascertained from available records;

(d) The operating and maintenance history of the segment;

(e) The maximum actual operating pressure and the corresponding operating hoop stress, taking pressure gradient into account, for the segment of pipeline involved; and

(f) The actual area affected by the population density increase, and physical barriers or other factors which may limit further expansion of the more densely populated area.

192.611 Change in Class Location: Confirmation or Revision of Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure.

(a) If the hoop stress corresponding to the established maximum allowable operating pressure of a segment of pipeline is not commensurate with the present class location, and the segment is in satisfactory physical condition, the maximum allowable operating pressure of that segment of pipeline must be confirmed or revised according to one of the following requirements:

(1) If the segment involved has been previously tested in place for a period of not less than 8 hours, the maximum allowable operating pressure is 0.8 times the test pressure in Class 2 locations, 0.667 times the test pressure in Class 3 locations, or 0.555 times the test pressure in Class 4 locations. The corresponding hoop stress may not exceed 72 percent of the SMYS of the pipe in Class 2 locations, 60 percent of SMYS in Class 3 locations, or 50 percent of SMYS in Class 4 locations.

(2) The maximum allowable operating pressure of the segment involved must be reduced so that the corresponding hoop stress is not more than that allowed by this part for new segments of pipelines in the existing class location.

(3) The segment involved must be tested in accordance with the applicable requirements of Subpart J of this part, and its maximum allowable operating pressure must then be established according to the following criteria:

(i) The maximum allowable operating pressure after the requalification test is 0.8 times the test pressure for Class 2 locations, 0.667 times the test pressure for Class 3 locations, and 0.555 times the test pressure for Class 4 locations.

(ii) The corresponding hoop stress may not exceed 72 percent of the SMYS of the pipe in Class 2 locations, 60 percent of SMYS in Class 3 locations, or 50 percent of SMYS in Class 4 locations.

(b) The maximum allowable operating pressure confirmed or revised in accordance with this section, may not exceed the maximum allowable operating pressure established before the confirmation or revision.

(c) Confirmation or revision of the maximum allowable operating pressure of a segment of pipeline in accordance with this section does not preclude the application of paragraphs 192.553 and 192.555.

(d) Confirmation or revision of the maximum allowable operating pressure that is required as a result of a study under paragraph 192.609 must be completed within 18 months of the change in class location. Pressure reduction under paragraph (a)(1) or (2) of this section within the 18-month period does not preclude establishing a maximum allowable operating pressure under paragraph (a)(3) of this section at a later date.

192.613 Continuing Surveillance.

(a) Each operator shall have a procedure for continuing surveillance of its facilities to determine take appropriate action concerning changes in class location, failures, leakage history, corrosion, substantial changes in cathodic protection requirements, and other unusual operating and maintenance conditions.

(b) If a segment of pipeline is determined to be in unsatisfactory condition but no immediate hazard exists, the operator shall initiate a program to recondition or phase out the segment involved, or, if the segment cannot be reconditioned or phased out, reduce the maximum allowable operating pressure in accordance with Paragraphs 192.619(a) and (b).

192.614 Damage Prevention Program.

(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section, each operator of a buried pipeline must carry out, in accordance with this section, a written program to prevent damage to that pipeline from excavation activities. For the purpose of this section, the term "excavation activities" include excavation, blasting, boring, tunneling, backfilling, the removal of the above ground structures by either explosive or mechanical means, and other earth moving operations.

(b) An operator may comply with any of the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section through participation in a public service program, such as a one-call system, but such participation does not relieve the operator of responsibility for compliance with this section. However, an operator must perform the duties of paragraph (c)(3) of this section through participation in a one-call system, if that one-call system is a qualified one-call system. In areas that are covered by more than one qualified one-call system, an operator need only join one of the qualified one-call systems if there is a central telephone number for excavators to call for excavation activities, or if the one-call systems in those areas communicate with one another. An operator's pipeline system must be covered by a qualified one-call system where there is one in place. For the purpose of this section, a one-call is considered a "qualified one-call system" if it meets the requirements of section (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this section.

(1) The state has adopted a one-call damage prevention program under 49 CFR § 198.37; or

(2) The one-call system:

(i) Is operated in accordance with 49 CFR § 198.39;

(ii) Provides a pipeline operator an opportunity similar to a voluntary participant to have a part in management responsibilities; and

(iii) Assesses a participating pipeline operator a fee that is proportionate to the costs of the one-call system's coverage of the operator's pipeline.

(c) The damage prevention program required by Paragraph (a) of this section must, at a minimum:

(1) Include the identity, on a current basis, of persons who normally engage in excavation activities in the area in which the pipeline is located.

(2) Provides for notification of the public in the vicinity of the pipeline and actual notification of the persons identified in Paragraph (c)(1) of this section of the following as often as needed to make them aware of the damage prevention program:

(i) The program's existence and purpose; and

(ii) How to learn the location of underground pipelines before excavation activities are begun.

(3) Provide a means of receiving and recording notification of planned excavation activities.

(4) If the operator has buried pipelines in the area of excavation activity, provide for actual notification of persons who give notice of their intent to excavate of the type of temporary marking to be provided and how to identify the markings.

(5) Provide for temporary marking of buried pipelines in the area of excavation activity before, as far as practical, the activity begins.

(6) Provide as follows for inspection of pipelines that an operator has reason to believe could be damaged by excavation activities:

(i) The inspection must be done as frequently as necessary during and after the activities to verify the integrity of the pipeline; and

(ii) In the case of blasting, any inspection must include leakage surveys.

(d) A damage prevention program under this section is not required for pipelines to which access is physically controlled by the operator.

(e) Pipelines operated by persons other than municipalities (including operators of master meters) whose primary activity does not include the transportation of gas need not comply with the following:

(1) The requirement of paragraph (a) of this section that the damage prevention program be written; and

(2) The requirements of paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this section.

192.615 Emergency Plans.

(a) Each operator shall establish written procedures to minimize the hazard resulting from a gas pipeline emergency. At a minimum, the procedures must provide for the following:

(1) Receiving, identifying, and classifying notices of events which require immediate response by the operator.

(2) Establishing and maintaining adequate means of communication with appropriate fire, police, and other public officials.

(3) Prompt and effective response to a notice of each type of emergency, including the following:

(i) Gas detected inside or near a building.

(ii) Fire located near or directly involving a pipeline facility.

(iii) Explosion occurring near or directly involving a pipeline facility.

(iv) Natural disaster.

(4) The availability of personnel, equipment, tools, and materials, as needed at the scene of an emergency.

(5) Actions directed toward protecting people first and then property.

(6) Emergency shutdown and pressure reduction in any section of the operator's pipeline system necessary to minimize hazards to life or property.

(7) Making safe any actual or potential hazard to life or property.

(8) Notifying appropriate fire, police, and other public officials of gas pipeline emergencies and coordinating with them both planned responses and actual responses during an emergency.

(9) Safely restoring any service outage.

(10) Beginning action under Paragraph 192.617, if applicable, as soon after the end of the emergency as possible.

(b) Each operator shall:

(1) Furnish its supervisors who are responsible for emergency action a copy of that portion of the latest edition of the emergency procedures established under Paragraph (a) of this section as necessary for compliance with those procedures.

(2) Train the appropriate operating personnel to assure that they are knowledgeable of the emergency procedures and verify that the training is effective.

(3) Review employee activities to determine whether the procedures were effectively followed in each emergency.

(c) Each operator shall establish and maintain liaison with appropriate fire, police, and other public officials to:

(1) Learn the responsibility and resources of each government organization that may respond toa gas pipeline emergency;

(2) Acquaint the officials with the operator's ability in responding to a gas pipeline emergency;

(3) Identify the types of gas pipeline emergencies of which the operator notifies the officials; and

(4) Plan how the operator and officials can engage in mutual assistance to minimize hazards to life or property.

(d) Maintain a current map of the entire gas system or sectional maps of large systems. These maps will be of sufficient detail to approximate the location of mains and transmission lines.

(e) Identify all key valves which may be necessary for the safe operation of the system. The location of these valves shall be designated on appropriate records, drawings or maps.

192.616 Public Education.

Each operator shall establish a continuing educational program to enable customers, the public, appropriate government organizations, and persons engaged in excavation related activities to recognize a gas pipeline emergency for the purpose of reporting it to the operator or the appropriate public officials. The program and the media used must be as comprehensive as necessary to reach all areas in which the operator transports gas. The program must be conducted in English and in other languages commonly understood by a significant number and concentration of the non-English speaking population in the operator's area.

192.617 Investigation of Failures.

Each operator shall establish procedures for analyzing accidents and failures, including the selection of samples of the failed facility or equipment for laboratory examination, where appropriate, for the purpose of determining the causes of the failure and minimizing the possibility of a recurrence.

192.619 Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure: Steel or Plastic Pipelines.

(a) Except as provided in Paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate a segment of steel or plastic pipeline at a pressure that exceeds the lowest of the following:

(1) The design pressure of the weakest element in the segment, determined in accordance with Subparts C and D of this part. However, for steel pipe in pipelines being converted under Paragraph 192.14 or uprated under subpart K of this part, if any variable necessary to determine the design pressure under the design formula (Paragraph 192.105) is unknown, one of the following pressures is to be used as design pressure:

(i) Eighty percent of the first test pressure that produces yield under section N5.0 of Appendix N of ASME/ANSI B31.8, reduced by the appropriate factor in Paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this section; or

(ii) If the pipe is 12 3/4 in. ( 324 mm) or less in outside diameter and is not tested to yield under this paragraph, 200 psi. (1379 kPa).

(2) The pressure obtained by dividing the pressure to which the segment was tested after construction as follows:

(i) For plastic pipe in all locations, the test pressure is divided by a factor of 1.5.

(ii) For steel pipe operated at 100 psi. (689 kPa) gage or more, the test pressure is divided by a factor determined in accordance with the following table:

Factors, Segment
Class Location	Installed Before Nov. 12 1970	Installed After Nov. 11 1970	Converted Under 192.14
1 ..................................	1.1 ...........	1.1 .........	1.25
2 ..................................	1.25 ...........	1.25 .........	1.25
3 ..................................	1.4 ...........	1.5 .........	1.5
4 ..................................	1.4 ...........	1.5 .........	1.5

(3) The highest actual operating pressure to which the segment was subjected during the 5 years preceding July 1, 1970, unless the segment was tested in accordance with Paragraph (a)(2) of this section after July 1, 1965, or the segment was uprated in accordance with Subpart K of this part.

(4) The pressure determined by the operator to be the maximum safe pressure after considering the history of the segment, particularly known corrosion and the actual operating pressure.

(b) No person may operate a segment to which Paragraph (a)(4) of this section is applicable, unless over-pressure protective devices are installed on the segment in a manner that will prevent the maximum allowable operating pressure from being exceeded, in accordance with Paragraph 192.195.

(c) Notwithstanding the other requirements of this section, an operator may operate a segment of pipeline found to be in satisfactory condition, considering its operating and maintenance history, at the highest actual operating pressure to which the segment was subjected during the 5 years preceding July 1, 1970, subject to the requirements of Paragraph 192.611.

(d) The maximum allowable operating pressure shall be designated following the above procedures and posted on system maps, drawings, regulator stations or other appropriate records.

192.621 Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure: High-Pressure Distribution Systems.

(a) No person may operate a segment of a high pressure distribution system at a pressure that exceeds the lowest of the following pressures, as applicable:

(1) The design pressure of the weakest element in the segment, determined in accordance with Subparts C and D of this part.

(2) 60 psi. (414 kPa) gage for a segment of a distribution system otherwise designed to operate at over 60 psi. (414 kPa) gage, unless the service lines in the segment are equipped with service regulators or other pressure limiting devices in series that meet the requirements of Paragraph 192.197(c).

(3) 25 psi. (172 kPa) gage in segments of cast iron pipe in which there are unreinforced bell and spigot joints.

(4) The pressure limits to which a joint could be subjected without the possibility of its parting.

(5) The pressure determined by the operator to be the maximum safe pressure after considering the history of the segment, particularly known corrosion and the actual operating pressures.

(b) No person may operate a segment of pipeline to which Paragraph (a)(5) of this section applies, unless overpressure protective devices are installed on the segment in a manner that will prevent the maximum allowable operating pressure from being exceeded, in accordance with Paragraph 192.195.

(c) The maximum allowable operating pressure shall be designated following the above procedures and posted on system maps, drawings, regulator stations or other appropriate records.

192.622 Maximum Actual Operating Pressure: High-Pressure Distribution Systems.

(a) Each operator shall establish a maximum actual operating pressure if the actual operating pressure is less than the established maximum allowable operating pressure. The maximum actual operating pressure will be the pressure for orifice sizing in customer regulators as required by Paragraph 192.197. The maximum actual operating pressure may be increased to a pressure not exceeding the maximum allowable operating pressure during emergency operating conditions. Normal seasonal gas demands are not considered emergency operating conditions. Upon termination of the emergency the pressure must be reduced to a pressure not exceeding the established maximum actual operating pressure. The maximum actual operating pressure shall be posted on system maps, drawings, regulator stations or other appropriate records.

(b) Before increasing the established maximum actual operating pressure, under normal conditions, the operator shall:

(1) Calculate the rated capability of each overpressure control device installed at each customer's service.

(2) If the overpressure control device is not capable of maintaining a safe pressure to the customer's gas utilization equipment, a new or additional device must be installed to provide a safe pressure to the customer.

192.623 Maximum and Minimum Allowable Operating Pressure: Low-Pressure Distribution Systems.

(a) No person may operate a low-pressure distribution system at a pressure high enough to make unsafe the operation of any connected and properly adjusted low-pressure gas burning equipment.

(b) No person may operate a low-pressure distribution system at a pressure lower than the minimum pressure at which the safe and continuing operation of any connected and properly adjusted low-pressure gas burning equipment can be assured.

(c) The maximum allowable operating pressure shall be designated following the above procedures and posted on system maps, drawings, regulator stations or other appropriate records.

192.625 Odorization of Gas.

(a) A combustible gas in a distribution line must contain a natural odorant or be odorized so that at a concentration in air of one-fifth of the lower explosive limit, the gas is readily detectable by a person with a normal sense of smell.

(b) After December 31, 1976, a combustible gas in a transmission line in a Class 3 or Class 4 location must comply with the requirements of Paragraph (a) of this section unless:

(1) At least 50 percent of the length of the line downstream from that location is in a Class 1 or Class 2 location;

(2) The line transports gas to any of the following facilities which received gas without an odorant from that line before May 5, 1975;

(i) An underground storage field;

(ii) A gas processing plant;

(iii) A gas dehydration plant; or

(iv) An industrial plant using gas in a process where the presence of an odorant:

(A) Makes the end product unfit for the purpose for which it is intended;

(B) Reduces the activity of a catalyst; or

(C) Reduces the percentage completion of a chemical reaction;

(3) In the case of a lateral line which transports gas to a distribution center, at least 50 percent of the length of that line is in a Class 1 or Class 2 location; or

(4) The combustible gas is hydrogen intended for use as a feedstock in a manufacturing process.

(c) In the concentrations in which it is used, the odorant in combustible gases must comply with the following:

(1) The odorant must not be harmful to persons, materials, or pipes.

(2) The products of combustion from the odorant may not be toxic when breathed nor may they be corrosive or harmful to those materials to which the products of combustion will be exposed.

(d) The odorant may not be soluble in water to an extent greater than 2.5 parts to 100 parts by weight.

(e) Equipment for odorization must introduce the odorant without wide variations in the level of odorant.

(f) To assure the proper concentration of odorant in accordance with this section, each operator must conduct periodic sampling of combustible gases using an instrument capable of determining the percentage of gas in air at which the odor becomes readily detectable.

(g) Each operator shall conduct an odorant concentration test by performing a room odorant test or measuring with an instrument designed for this purpose. Systems odorized by centrally located equipment and designed to provide properly odorized gas to a large number of customers, shall have test points at key locations where odorant concentration tests shall be taken. These test points shall be designated in such a manner to allow sampling of gas at the furthest points from the odorizer(s). These tests shall be conducted at intervals not exceeding 3 months and recorded. As a minimum, records of the most current and previous test shall be maintained by the operator.

(h) Individual taps from unodorized facilities shall be provided with odorization equipment of proper size and serviced frequently enough to ensure an ample supply at all times. Odorant concentration test of this type facility shall be conducted each six months by an acceptable method. Odorant test records of the most current and previous test of each customer shall be maintained by the operator.

192.627 Tapping Pipelines Under Pressure.

Each tap made on a pipeline under pressure must be performed by a crew qualified to make hot taps.

192.629 Purging of Pipelines.

(a) When a pipeline is being purged of air by use of gas, the gas must be released into one end of the line in a moderately rapid and continuous flow. If gas cannot be supplied in sufficient quantity to prevent the formation of a hazardous mixture of gas and air, a slug of inert gas must be released into the line before the gas.

(b) When a pipeline is being purged of gas by use of air, the air must be released into one end of the line in a moderately rapid and continuous flow. If air cannot be supplied in sufficient quantity to prevent the formation of a hazardous mixture of gas and air, a slug of inert gas must be released into the line before the air.

(c) When a low pressure gas system is being purged of water by natural gas, the allowable operating pressure may not be exceeded. If the pressure required to purge the water exceeds the established maximum allowable operating pressure, air will be used to purge the system.

SUBPART M -MAINTENANCE

192.701 Scope.

This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for maintenance of pipeline facilities.

192.703 General.

(a) No person may operate a segment of pipeline, unless it is maintained in accordance with this subpart.

(b) Each segment of pipeline that becomes unsafe must be replaced, repaired, or removed from service.

(c) Hazardous leaks must be repaired promptly.

192.705 Transmission Lines: Patrolling.

(a) Each operator shall have a patrol program to observe surface conditions on and adjacent to the transmission line right-of-way for indications of leaks, construction activity, and other factors affecting safety and operation.

(b) The frequency of patrols is determined by the size of the line, the operating pressure, the class location, terrain, weather, and other relevant factors, but intervals between patrols may not be longer than prescribed in the following table:

MAXIMUM INTERVAL BETWEEN PATROLS

Class Location of Line	At Highway and Railroad Crossings	At All Other Places
1,2 .........................	72 months, but at .............. least twice each calendar year.	15 months, but at least once each calendar year.
3 .........................	42 months, but at .............. least four times each calendar year.	72 months, but at least twice each calendar year.
4 .........................	42 months, but at .............. least four times each calendar year.	42 months, but at least four times each calendar year.

(c) Methods of patrolling include walking, driving, flying or other appropriate means of traversing the right-of-way.

192.706 Transmission Lines: Leakage Surveys.

Leakage surveys of a transmission line must be conducted at intervals not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar year. However, in the case of a transmission line which transports gas in conformity with Paragraph 192.625 without an odor or odorant, leakage surveys using leak detector equipment must be conducted:

(a) In Class 3 locations, at intervals not exceeding 72 months, but at least twice each calendar year; and

(b) In Class 4 locations, at intervals not exceeding 42 months, but at least four times each calendar year.

192.707 Line Markers for Mains and Transmission Lines.

(a) Buried pipelines. Except as provided in Paragraph (b) of this section, a line marker must be placed and maintained as close as practical over each buried main and transmission line:

(1) At each crossing of a public road and railroad; and

(2) Wherever necessary to identify the location of the transmission line or main to reduce the possibility of damage or interference. When a pipeline crosses a divided roadway, a marker shall be placed on each side of the roadway.

(b) Exceptions for buried pipelines. Line markers are not required for the following pipelines:

(1) Mains and transmission lines located at crossings of or under waterways and other bodies of water.

(2) Mains in Class 3 or Class 4 locations where a damage prevention program is in effect under Paragraph 192.614:

(3) Transmission lines in Class 3 or 4 locations where placement of a line marker is impractical.

(c) Pipelines above ground. Line markers must be placed and maintained along each section of a main and transmission line that is located above-ground in an area accessible to the public.

(d) Marker warning. The following must be written legibly on a background of sharply contrasting color on each line marker:

(1) The word "Warning", "Caution", or "Danger", followed by the words "Gas Pipeline" all of which, except for markers in heavily developed urban areas, must be in letters at least one inch (25 millimeters) high with one-quarter inch (6.4 millimeters) stroke.

(2) The name of the operator and the telephone number (including area code) where the operator can be reached at all times.

192.709 Transmission Lines: Record-Keeping.

Each operator shall maintain the following records for transmission lines for the periods specified:

(a) The date, location, and description of each repair made to pipe (including pipe-to-pipe connections) must be retained for as long as the pipe remains in service.

(b) The date, location, and description of each repair made to parts of the pipeline system other than pipe must be retained for at least 5 years. However, repairs generated by patrols, surveys, inspections, or tests required by subparts L and M of this part must be retained in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.

(c) A record of each patrol, survey, inspection, and test required by subparts L and M of this part must be retained for at least 5 years or until the next patrol, survey, inspection, or test is completed, whichever is longer.

192.711 Transmission Lines: General Requirements for Repair Procedures.

(a) Each operator shall take immediate temporary measures to protect the public whenever:

(1) A leak, imperfection, or damage that impairs its serviceability is found in a segment of steel transmission line operating at or above 40 percent of the SMYS; and

(2) It is not feasible to make a permanent repair at the time of discovery. As soon as feasible, the operator shall make permanent repairs.

(b) Except as provided in Paragraph 192.717(b)(3), no operator may use a welded patch as a means of repair.

192.713 Transmission Lines: Permanent Field Repair of Imperfections and Damages.

(a) Each imperfection or damage that impairs the serviceability of pipe in a steel transmission line operating at or above 40 percent of SMYS must be--

(1) Removed by cutting out and replacing a cylindrical piece of pipe; or

(2) Repaired by a method that reliable engineering tests and analyses show can permanently restore the serviceability of the pipe.

(b) Operating pressure must be at a safe level during repair operations.

192.715 Transmission Lines: Permanent Field Repair of Welds.

Each weld that is unacceptable under Paragraph 192.241(c) must be repaired as follows:

(a) If it is feasible to take the segment of transmission line out of service, the weld must be repaired in accordance with the applicable requirements of Paragraph 192.245.

(b) A weld may be repaired in accordance with Paragraph 192.245 while the segment of transmission line is in service if:

(1) The weld is not leaking;

(2) The pressure in the segment is reduced so that it does not produce a stress that is more than 20 percent of the SMYS of the pipe; and

(3) Grinding of the defective area can be limited so that at least 1/8 inch (3.2 millimeters) thickness in the pipe weld remains.

(c) A defective weld which cannot be repaired in accordance with Paragraph (a) or (b) of this section must be repaired by installing a full encirclement welded split sleeve of appropriate design.

192.717 Transmission Lines: Permanent Field Repair of Leaks.

Each permanent field repair of a leak on a transmission line must be made by--

(a) Removing the leak by cutting out and replacing a cylindrical piece of pipe; or

(b) Repairing the leak by one of the following methods:

(1) Install a full encirclement welded split sleeve of appropriate design, unless the transmission line is joined by mechanical couplings and operates at less than 40 percent of SMYS.

(2) If the leak is due to a corrosion pit, install a properly designed bolt-on-leak clamp.

(3) If the leak is due to a corrosion pit and on pipe of not more than 40,000 psi (267 Mpa) SMYS, fillet weld over the pitted area a steel plate patch with rounded corners, of the same or greater thickness than the pipe, and not more than one-half of the diameter of the pipe in size.

(4) If the leak is on a submerged offshore pipeline or submerged pipeline in inland navigable waters, mechanically apply a full encirclement split sleeve of appropriate design.

(5) Apply a method that reliable engineering tests and analyses show can permanently restore the serviceability of the pipe.

192.719 Transmission Lines: Testing of Repairs.

(a) Testing of replacement pipe. If a segment of transmission line is repaired by cutting out the damaged portion of the pipe as a cylinder, the replacement pipe must be tested to the pressure required for a new line installed in the same location. This test may be made on the pipe before it is installed.

(b) Testing of repairs made by welding. Each repair made by welding in accordance with Paragraphs 192.713, 192.715, and 192.717 must be examined in accordance with Paragraph 192.241.

192.721 Distribution Systems: Patrolling.

(a) The frequency of patrolling mains must be determined by the severity of the conditions which could cause failure or leakage, and the consequent hazards to public safety.

(b) Mains in places or on structures where anticipated physical movement or external loading could cause failure or leakage must be patrolled -

(1) In business districts, at intervals not exceeding 4 2 months, but at least 4 times each calendar year; and

(2) Outside business districts, at intervals not exceeding 7 2 months, but at least twice each calendar year.

192.723 Distribution Systems: Leakage Surveys and Procedures.

(a) Each operator of a distribution system shall conduct periodic leakage surveys in accordance with this section. These surveys must be performed by, or under the direct supervision of, personnel trained and qualified in both the use of appropriate equipment and the classification of leaks. In addition, maps that approximate the location of the mains and transmission lines being surveyed must be available.

(b) The type and scope of the leakage control program must be determined by the nature of the operations and the local conditions, but it must meet the following minimum requirements.

(1) A leakage survey with leak detector equipment shall be conducted in business districts including test of the atmosphere in electric, gas, sewer, telephone and water system manholes, at cracks in pavement and sidewalks and at other locations providing an opportunity for finding gas leaks. This survey shall be performed with a flame ionization unit or a gas detector at intervals not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar year.

(2) A leakage survey with leak detector equipment must be conducted outside business districts as frequently as necessary, but at intervals not exceeding 5 years. However, for cathodically unprotected distribution lines subject to § 192.465(e) on which electrical surveys for corrosion are impractical, survey intervals may not exceed 3 years.

(i) A leakage survey of all underground natural gas distribution systems outside of a business district, that are owned/operated or the responsibility of a public or municipal utility shall be performed as frequently as necessary but at intervals not exceeding five (5) calendar years.

(ii) A leakage survey of all underground natural gas distribution systems, not owned nor the responsibility of a public or municipal utility and used to transport gas from a master meter or utility company gas main to multiple buildings, shall be performed as frequently as necessary but at intervals not exceeding five (5) years. Owners/operators of these systems shall be responsible to ensure these surveys are accomplished.

(c) The type and scope of the surveys required in (I) and (ii) above, must ensure detection, location, evaluation and classification of any gas leakage. The following methods may be employed depending on the design and size of the system or facility:

(1) Flame Ionization Detector.

(2) Combustible Gas Indicator (includes bar holing).

(3) Pressure Drop or No Flow. Only to be used to establish the presence or absence of leakage on a distribution system. Where leakage is indicated, further evaluation by another detection method must be accomplished to locate, evaluate and classify leaks. When this method is used to verify no leakage exists a test record certified by a qualified person, organization or agency, must be retained with records of survey.

NOTE: Test duration must be of sufficient length to detect leakage, and the following should be considered:

Volume under test and the time for the test medium to become temperature stabilized.

(d) All leaks detected shall be classified to assure a standardized priority of repair is established. There is no precise means presently developed to accurately classify leaks, however, there are four general categories that must be considered when judging the severity of gas leaks:

(1) Proportion. The quantity of gas escaping based on gas indicator readings, pressure of line or container from which gas is escaping and concentration of odor.

(2) Location. The centralized location of escaping gas; under buildings and paved surfaces, near occupied buildings, near source of ignition or in open areas where the concentration of gas is improbable.

(3) Dispersion. The areas to which escaping gas may spread. Based on depth of line, type of soil, pressure, surface cover, moisture, frozen soil and other soil conditions.

(4) Evaluation. All factors must be evaluated, applying experience and good judgement in arriving at the proper classification.

(e) To standardize leak classification, using the above factors, all leaks shall be classified in the following categories:

(1) Class 1. Leaks that represent an existing or probable hazard to persons or property and requires immediate repair or continuous action until the hazardous condition no longer exists.

(2) Class 2. Leaks that are considered non-hazardous at the time of detection, but could become hazardous if repair is not accomplished in a reasonable length of time. Repair as soon as possible, but within a period not to exceed five months.

(3) Class 3. Leaks that are non-hazardous at the time of detection and can be expected to remain non-hazardous. These leaks should be re-evaluated during the next scheduled survey. Repair as time and expenditures permit.

(f) In addition to leak surveys, any leak or gas odor reported from the public, fire, police or other authorities or notification of damage to facilities by outside sources shall require prompt investigation. Thorough investigations shall be performed on all suspected leaks to determine the degree of existing hazard to person or property. This includes entering structures in a reported or suspected leakage area and checking for presence of gas.

(1) Leaks reported on customer's piping shall be investigated by trained and qualified employees who must judge the degree of hazard and establish the required repair priority. If a hazardous leak exists on customer's piping, the service shall be immediately terminated upstream of the leak. If the leak is not presently hazardous but may become hazardous, the customer shall be given a reasonable time to repair the leak.

(g) A leak repair record shall be made for every leak detected or identified. Leaks discovered on customer's piping, downstream of the meter, shall be documented on operator's service orders and retained until the customer's piping has been repaired to the satisfaction of the operator. Corrosion leaks shall be documented on permanent records and shall be retained for as long as the segment of pipeline on which the leak was located is in service. As a minimum, leak records other than corrosion shall be maintained on the two most current leak surveys. Each leak record shall contain, as a minimum, the following:

(1) Date leak discovered.

(2) Location.

(3) Classification.

(4) Cause of leak.

(5) Initials of person making the repair or responsible for maintaining the records of work accomplished.

(h) Leaks may be reclassified by responsible and suitable experienced persons whose name shall appear on the documents.

192.725 Test Requirements for Reinstating Service Lines.

(a) Except as provided in Paragraph (b) of this section, each disconnected service line must be tested in the same manner as a new service line, before being reinstated.

(b) Each service line temporarily disconnected from the main must be tested from the point of disconnection to the service line valve in the same manner as a new service line, before reconnecting. However, if provisions are made to maintain continuous service, such as installation of a bypass, any part of the original service line used to maintain continuous service need not be tested.

192.727 Abandonment or Deactivation of Facilities.

(a) Each operator shall conduct abandonment or deactivation of pipelines in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(b) Each pipeline abandoned in place must be disconnected from all sources and supplies of gas, purged of gas, and the ends sealed. However, the pipeline need not be purged when the volume of gas is so small that there is no potential hazard.

(c) Except for service lines, each inactive pipeline that is not being maintained under this part must be disconnected from all sources and supplies of gas, purged of gas, and the ends sealed. However, the pipeline need not be purged when the volume of gas is so small that there is no potential hazard.

(d) Whenever service to a customer is discontinued, one of the following must be complied with:

(1) The valve that is closed to prevent the flow of gas to the customer must be provided with a locking device or other means designed to prevent the opening of the valve by persons other than those authorized by the operator.

(2) A mechanical device or fitting that will prevent the flow of gas must be installed in the service line or in the meter assembly.

(3) The customer's piping must be physically disconnected from the gas supply and the open pipe ends sealed.

(e) If air is used for purging, the operator shall ensure that a combustible mixture is not present after purging.

(f) Each abandoned vault must be filled with a suitable compacted material.

(g) For each abandoned offshore pipeline facility or each abandoned onshore pipeline facility that crosses over, under or through a commercially navigable waterway, the last operator of that facility must file a report upon abandonment of that facility.

(1) The preferred method to submit data on pipeline facilities abandoned after October 10, 2000 is to the National Pipeline Mapping System (NPMS) in accordance with the NPMS "Standards for Pipeline and Liquefied Natural Gas Operator Submissions." To obtain a copy of the NPMS Standards, please refer to the NPMS homepage at www.npms.rspa.dot.gov or contact the NPMS National Repository at 703-317-3073. A digital data format is preferred, but hard copy submissions are acceptable if they comply with the NPMS Standards. In addition to the NPMS-required attributes, operators must submit the date of abandonment, diameter, method of abandonment, and certification that, to the best of the operator's knowledge, all of the reasonably available information requested was provided and, to the best of the operator's knowledge, the abandonment was completed in accordance with applicable laws. Refer to the NPMS Standards for details in preparing your data for submission. The NPMS Standards also include details of how to submit data. Alternatively, operators may submit reports by mail, fax or e-mail to the Information Officer, Research and Special Programs Administration, Department of Transportation, Room 7128, 400 Seventh Street, SW, Washington DC 20590; fax (202) 366-4566; e-mail, roger.little@rspa.dot.gov. The information in the report must contain all reasonably available information related to the facility, including information in the possession of a third party. The report must contain the location, size, date, method of abandonment, and a certification that the facility has been abandoned in accordance with all applicable laws.

(2) Data on pipeline facilities abandoned before October 10, 2000 must be filed by before April 10, 2001. Operators may submit reports by mail, fax or e-mail to the Information Officer, Research and Special Programs Administration, Department of Transportation, Room 7128, 400 Seventh Street, SW, Washington DC 20590; fax (202) 366-4566; e-mail, roger.little@rspa.dot.gov. The information in the report must contain all reasonably available information related to the facility, including information in the possession of a third party. The report must contain the location, size, date, method of abandonment, and a certification that the facility has been abandoned in accordance with all applicable laws.

192.731 Compressor Stations: Inspection and Testing of Relief Devices.

(a) Except for rupture discs, each pressure relieving device in a compressor station must be inspected and tested in accordance with Paragraphs 192.739 and 192.743, and must be operated periodically to determine that it opens at the correct set pressure.

(b) Any defective or inadequate equipment found must be promptly repaired or replaced.

(c) Each remote control shutdown device must be inspected and tested, at intervals not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar year, to determine that it functions properly.

192.735 Compressor Stations: Storage of Combustible Materials.

(a) Flammable or combustible materials in quantities beyond those required for everyday use, or other than those normally used in compressor buildings, must be stored a safe distance from the compressor building.

(b) Above-ground oil or gasoline storage tanks must be protected in accordance with National Fire Protection Association Standard No. 30.

192.736 Compressor Stations: Gas Detection.

(a) Not later than September 16, 1996, each compressor building in a compressor station must have a fixed gas detection and alarm system, unless the building is:

(1) Constructed so that at least 50 percent of its upright side area is permanently open; or

(2) Located in an unattended field compressor station of 1,000 horsepower (746 kW) or less.

(b) Except when shutdown of the system is necessary for maintenance under paragraph (c) of this section, each gas detection and alarm system required by this section must:

(1) Continuously monitor the compressor building for a concentration of gas in air of not more than 25 percent of the lower explosive limit; and

(2) If that concentration of gas is detected, warn persons about to enter the building and persons inside the building of the danger.

(c) Each gas detection and alarm system required by this section must be maintained to function properly. The maintenance must include performance tests.

192.739 Pressure Limiting and Regulating Stations: Inspection and Testing.

Each pressure limiting station, relief device (except rupture discs), and pressure regulating station and its equipment must be subjected, at intervals not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar year, to inspections and tests. These inspections and tests shall include the following:

(a) Pressure regulating devices.

(1) Each regulator must be inspected to ensure it is in good working order, controls pressure and capacity within acceptable limits for the system in which it is installed.

(2) Shuts off pressure within acceptable limits.

(3) Second stage regulator will withstand and control first stage inlet pressure if a relief valve is not installed between regulators.

(4) Properly installed control lines, controllers, actuators and protected from conditions that may prevent proper operation.

(b) Pressure limiting and relief devices.

(1) Monitor regulators tested for proper operating parameters.

(2) Set to control or relieve at the correct pressures consistent with the pressure limits of Sec. 192.201(a).

(3) Vent stacks are free of obstructions, properly routed, vented outside of building and vents adequately covered.

(4) Block valves connecting relief devices to a system shall be locked in the open position and block valves in manually-fed above ground bypasses shall be locked in the closed position.

192.741 Pressure Limiting and Regulating Stations: Telemetering or Recording Gauges.

(a) Each distribution system supplied by more than one district pressure regulating station must be equipped with telemetering or recording pressure gauges to indicate the gas pressure in the district.

(b) On distribution systems supplied by a single district pressure regulating station, the operator shall determine the necessity of installing telemetering or recording gauges in the district, taking into consideration the number of customers supplied, the operating pressures, the capacity of the installation, and other operating conditions.

(c) If there are indications of abnormally high or low pressure, the regulator and the auxiliary equipment must be inspected and the necessary measures employed to correct any unsatisfactory operating conditions.

192.743 Pressure Limiting and Regulating Stations: Testing of Relief Devices.

(a) Pressure relief devices at pressure limiting stations and pressure regulating stations must have sufficient capacity to protect the facilities to which they are connected consistent with the pressure limits of Sec. 192.201(a). This capacity must be determined at intervals not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar year, by testing the devices in place or by review and calculations.

(b) If review and calculations are used to determine if a device has sufficient capacity, the calculated capacity must be compared with the rated or experimentally determined relieving capacity of the device for the conditions under which it operates. After the initial calculations, subsequent calculations need not be made if the annual review documents that parameters have not changed to cause the rated or experimentally determined relieving capacity to be insufficient.

(c) If a relief device is of insufficient capacity, a new or additional device must be installed to provide the capacity required by paragraph (a) of this section.

192.745 Valve Maintenance: Transmission Lines.

(a) Each valve, the use of which may be necessary for the safe operation of a transmission line, must be identified and readily accessible. These valves must be inspected, lubricated when necessary and partially operated at intervals not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar year.

(b) Each operator must take prompt remedial action to correct any valve found inoperable, unless the operator designates an alternative valve.

192.747 Valve Maintenance: Distribution Systems.

(a) Each valve, the use of which may be necessary for the safe operation of a distribution system must be identified and readily accessible. These valves must be inspected, lubricated when necessary and partially operated at intervals not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar year.

(b) Each operator must take prompt remedial action to correct any valve found inoperable, unless the operator designates an alternative valve.

192.749 Vault Maintenance.

(a) Each vault housing pressure regulating and pressure limiting equipment, and having a volumetric internal content of 200 cubic feet (5.66 cubic meters) or more, must be inspected, at intervals not exceeding 15 months, but at least once each calendar year, to determine that it is in good physical condition and adequately ventilated.

(b) If gas is found in the vault, the equipment in the vault must be inspected for leaks, and any leaks found must be repaired.

(c) The ventilating equipment must also be inspected to determine that it is functioning properly.

(d) Each vault cover must be inspected to assure that it does not present a hazard to public safety.

192.751 Prevention of Accidental Ignition.

Each operator shall take steps to minimize the danger of accidental ignition of gas in any structure or area where the presence of gas constitutes a hazard of fire or explosion, including the following:

(a) When a hazardous amount of gas is being vented into open air, each potential source of ignition must be removed from the area and a fire extinguisher must be provided.

(b) Gas or electric welding or cutting may not be performed on pipe or on pipe components that contain a combustible mixture of gas and air in the area of work.

(c) Post warning signs, where appropriate.

192.753 Caulked Bell and Spigot Joints.

(a) Each cast iron caulked bell and spigot joint that is subject to pressures of more than 25 psi (172kPa) gage must be sealed with:

(1) A mechanical leak clamp; or

(2) A material or device which:

(i) Does not reduce flexibility of the joint;

(ii) Permanently bonds, either chemically or mechanically, or both, with the bell and spigot metal surfaces or adjacent pipe metal surfaces; and

(iii) Seals and bonds in a manner that meets the strength, environmental, and chemical compatibility requirements of Paragraphs 192.53(a) and (b) and Paragraph 192.143.

(b) Each cast iron caulked bell and spigot joint that is subject to pressures of 25 psi (172kPa) gage or less and is exposed for any reason must be sealed by a means other than caulking.

192.755 Protecting Cast Iron Pipelines.

When an operator has knowledge that the support for a segment of a buried cast iron pipeline is disturbed:

(a) That segment of the pipeline must be protected, as necessary, against damage during the disturbance by:

(1) Vibrations from heavy construction equipment, trains, trucks, buses or blasting;

(2) Impact force by vehicles;

(3) Earth movement;

(4) Apparent future excavations near the pipeline; or

(5) Other foreseeable outside forces which may subject that segment of the pipeline to bending stress.

(b) As soon as feasible, appropriate steps must be taken to provide permanent protection for the disturbed segment from damage that might result from external loads, including compliance with applicable requirements of Paragraphs 192.317(a), 192.319, and 192.361(b) - (d).

HIGH CONSEQUENCE AREAS

192.761 Definitions.

The following definitions apply to this section and Sec. 192.763:

A high consequence area means any of the following areas:

(a) An area defined as a Class 3 location under Sec. 192.5;

(b) An area defined as a Class 4 location under Sec. 192.5;

(c) For a pipeline not more than 12 inches in nominal diameter and operating at a maximum allowable operating pressure of not more than 1200 p.s.i.g., an area which extends 300 feet from the centerline of the pipeline to the identified site;

(d) For a pipeline greater than 30 inches in nominal diameter and operating at a maximum allowable operating pressure greater than 1000 p.s.i.g., an area which extends 1000 feet from the centerline of the pipeline to the identified site; and

(e) For a pipeline not described in paragraph (c) or (d) of this section, an area which extends 660 feet from the centerline of the pipeline to the identified site.

(f) An identified site. An identified site is a building or outside area that--

(1) Is visibly marked;

(2) Is licensed or registered by a Federal, State, or local agency;

(3) Is known by public officials; or

(4) Is on a list or map maintained by or available from a Federal, State, or local agency or a publicly or commercially available database; and

(5) Is occupied by persons who are confined, are of impaired mobility, or would be difficult to evacuate. Examples include, but are not limited to hospitals, prisons, schools, day-care facilities, retirement facilities, and assisted-living facilities; or

(6) There is evidence of use of the site by at least 20 or more persons on at least 50 days in any 12-month period. (The days need not be consecutive.) Examples include, but are not limited to, beaches, playgrounds, recreational facilities, camping grounds, outdoor theaters, stadiums, religious facilities, and recreational areas near bodies of water.

SUBPART N - Subpart N--Qualification of Pipeline Personnel

192.801 Scope.

(a) This subpart prescribes the minimum requirements for operator qualification of individuals performing covered tasks on a pipeline facility.

(b) For the purpose of this subpart, a covered task is an activity, identified by the operator, that:

(1) Is performed on a pipeline facility;

(2) Is an operations or maintenance task;

(3) Is performed as a requirement of this part; and

(4) Affects the operation or integrity of the pipeline.

192.803 Definitions.

Abnormal operating condition means a condition identified by the operator that may indicate a malfunction of a component or deviation from normal operations that may:

(a) Indicate a condition exceeding design limits; or

(b) Result in a hazard(s) to persons, property, or the environment.

Evaluation means a process, established and documented by the operator, to determine an individual's ability to perform a covered task by any of the following:

(a) Written examination;

(b) Oral examination;

(c) Work performance history review;

(d) Observation during:

(1) Performance on the job,

(2) On the job training, or

(3) Simulations;

(e) Other forms of assessment.

Qualified means that an individual has been evaluated and can:

(a) Perform assigned covered tasks; and

(b) Recognize and react to abnormal operating conditions.

192.805 Qualification program.

Each operator shall have and follow a written qualification program. The program shall include provisions to:

(a) Identify covered tasks;

(b) Ensure through evaluation that individuals performing covered tasks are qualified;

(c) Allow individuals that are not qualified pursuant to this subpart to perform a covered task if directed and observed by an individual that is qualified;

(d) Evaluate an individual if the operator has reason to believe that the individual's performance of a covered task contributed to an incident as defined in Part 191;

(e) Evaluate an individual if the operator has reason to believe that the individual is no longer qualified to perform a covered task;

(f) Communicate changes that affect covered tasks to individuals performing those covered tasks; and

(g) Identify those covered tasks and the intervals at which evaluation of the individual's qualifications is needed.

192.807 Recordkeeping.

Each operator shall maintain records that demonstrate compliance with this subpart.

(a) Qualification records shall include:

(1) Identification of qualified individual(s);

(2) Identification of the covered tasks the individual is qualified to perform;

(3) Date(s) of current qualification; and

(4) Qualification method(s).

(b) Records supporting an individual's current qualification shall be maintained while the individual is performing the covered task. Records of prior qualification and records of individuals no longer performing covered tasks shall be retained for a period of five years.

192.809 General.

(a) Operators must have a written qualification program by April 27, 2001.

(b) Operators must complete the qualification of individuals performing covered tasks by October 28, 2002.

(c) Work performance history review may be used as a sole evaluation method for individuals who were performing a covered task prior to October 26, 1999.

(d) After October 28, 2002, work performance history may not be used as a sole evaluation method.

Subpart O -Pipeline Integrity Management

§ 192.901 What do the regulations in this subpart cover?

This subpart prescribes minimum requirements for an integrity management program on any gas transmission pipeline covered under this part. For gas transmission pipelines constructed of plastic, only the requirements in §§ 192.917, 192.921, 192.935 and 192.937 apply.

§192.903 What definitions apply to this subpart?

The following definitions apply to this subpart.

Assessment is the use of testing techniques as allowed in this subpart to ascertain the condition of a covered pipeline segment.

Confirmatory direct assessment is an integrity assessment method using more focused application of the principles and techniques of direct assessment to identify internal and external corrosion in a covered transmission pipeline segment.

Covered segment or covered pipeline segment means a segment of gas transmission pipeline located in a high consequence area. The terms gas and transmission line are defined in §192.3.

Direct assessment is an integrity assessment method that utilizes a process to evaluate certain threats (i.e., external corrosion, internal corrosion and stress corrosion cracking) to a covered pipeline segment's integrity. The process includes the gathering and integration of risk factor data, indirect examination or analysis to identify areas of suspected corrosion, direct examination of the pipeline in these areas, and post assessment evaluation.

High consequence area means an area established by one of the methods described in paragraphs (1) or (2) as follows:

(a)

(1) An area defined as-

(i) A Class 3 location under § 192.5; or

(ii) A Class 4 location under § 192.5; or

(iii) Any area in a Class 1 or Class 2 location where the potential impact radius is greater than 660 feet (200 meters), and the area within a potential impact circle contains 20 or more buildings intended for human occupancy; or

(iv) Any area in a Class 1 or Class 2 location where the potential impact radius contains an identified site.

(2) The area within a potential impact circle containing--

(i) 20 or more buildings intended for human occupancy, unless the exception in paragraph (4) applies; or

(ii) An identified site.

(3) any area outside a Class 3 or Class 4 location where the potential impact radius is greater than 660 feet (200 meters), and the area within a potential impact circle contains 20 or more buildings intended for human occupancy; or

(4) the area within a potential impact circle containing an identified site.

(b) The area within a potential impact circle containing

(1) 20 or more buildings intended for human occupancy, unless the exception in paragraph (d) applies; or

(2) an identified site.

(c) Where a potential impact circle is calculated under either method (a) or (b) to establish a high consequence area, the length of the high consequence area extends axially along the length of the pipeline from the outermost edge of the first potential impact circle that contains either an identified site or 20 or more buildings intended for human occupancy to the outermost edge of the last contiguous potential impact circle that contains either an identified site or 20 or more buildings intended for human occupancy. (See Figure E.I.A. in Appendix E.)

(d) If in identifying a high consequence area under paragraph (a)(3) or paragraph (b)(1), the radius of the potential impact circle is greater than 660 feet (200 meters), the operator may identify a high consequence area based on a prorated number of buildings intended for human occupancy within a distance 660 feet (200 meters) from the centerline of the pipeline until December17, 2006. If an operator chooses this approach, the operator must prorate the number of buildings intended for human occupancy based on the ratio of an area with a radius of 660 feet (200 meters) to the area of the potential impact circle (i.e., the prorated number of buildings intended for human occupancy is equal to [20 x (660 feet [or 200 meters ]/ potential impact radius in feet [or meters])² ]).

Identified site means each of the following areas:

(a) An outside area or open structure that is occupied by twenty (20) or more persons on at least 50 days in any twelve (12)- month period. (The days need not be consecutive). Examples include but are not limited to, beaches, playgrounds, recreational facilities, camping grounds, outdoor theaters, stadiums, recreational areas near a body of water, or areas outside a rural building such as a religious facility; or

(b) A building that is occupied by twenty (20) or more persons on at least five (5) days a week for ten (10) weeks in any twelve (12)- month period. (The days and weeks need not be consecutive). Examples include, but are not limited to, religious facilities, office buildings, community centers, general stores, 4-H facilities, or roller skating rinks; or

(c) A facility occupied by persons who are confined, are of impaired mobility, or would be difficult to evacuate. Examples include but are not limited to hospitals, prisons, schools, day-care facilities, retirement facilities or assisted-living facilities.

Potential impact circle is a circle of radius equal to the potential impact radius (PIR).

Potential impact radius (PIR) means the radius of a circle within which the potential failure of a pipeline could have significant impact on people or property. PIR is determined by the formula r = 0.69 * (square root of (p*d²)), where 'r' is the radius of a circular area in feet surrounding the point of failure, 'p' is the maximum allowable operating pressure (MAOP) in the pipeline segment in pounds per square inch and 'd' is the nominal diameter of the pipeline in inches.

Note: 0.69 is the factor for natural gas. This number will vary for other gases depending upon their heat of combustion. An operator transporting gas other than natural gas must use section 3.2 of ASME/ANSI B31.8S-2001 (Supplement to ASME B31.8; ibr, see §192.7) to calculate the impact radius formula.

Remediation is a repair or mitigation activity an operator takes on a covered segment to limit or reduce the probability of an undesired event occurring or the expected consequences from the event.

§192.905 How does an operator identify a high consequence area?

(a) General. To determine which segments of an operator's transmission pipeline system are covered by this subpart, an operator must identify the high consequence areas. An operator must use method (a) or (b) from the definition in §192.903 to identify a high consequence area. An operator may apply one method to its entire pipeline system, or an operator may apply one method to individual portions of the pipeline system. An operator must describe in its integrity management program which method it is applying to each portion of the operator's pipeline system. The description must include the potential impact radius when utilized to establish a high consequence area. (See Appendix E.I. for guidance on identifying high consequence areas.)

(b) Identified sites. An operator must identify an identified site, for purposes of this subpart, from information the operator has obtained from routine operation and maintenance activities and from public officials with safety or emergency response or planning responsibilities who indicate to the operator that they know of locations that meet the identified site criteria. These public officials could include officials on a local emergency planning commission or relevant Native American tribal officials.

If a public official with safety or emergency response or planning responsibilities informs an operator that it does not have the information to identify an identified site, the operator must use one of the following sources, as appropriate, to identify these sites.

(1) visible marking (e.g., a sign); or

(2) the site is licensed or registered by a Federal, State, or local government agency; or

(3) the site is on a list (including a list on an internet web site) or map maintained by or available from a Federal, State, or local government agency and available to the general public.

(c) Newly-identified areas. When an operator has information that the area around a pipeline segment not previously identified as a high consequence area could satisfy any of the definitions in § 192.903, the operator must complete the evaluation using method (a) or (b). If the segment is determined to meet the definition as a high consequence area, it must be incorporated into the operator's baseline assessment plan as a high consequence area within one year from the date the area is identified.

§192.907 What must an operator do to implement this subpart?

(a) General. No later than December 17, 2004, an operator of a covered pipeline segment must develop and follow a written integrity management program that contains all the elements described in §192.911 and that addresses the risks on each covered transmission pipeline segment. The initial integrity management program must consist, at a minimum, of a framework that describes the process for implementing each program element, how relevant decisions will be made and by whom, a time line for completing the work to implement the program element, and how information gained from experience will be continuously incorporated into the program. The framework will evolve into a more detailed and comprehensive program. An operator must make continual improvements to the program.

(b) Implementation Standards. In carrying out this subpart, an operator must follow the requirements of this subpart and of ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7) and its appendices, where specified.

An operator may follow an equivalent standard or practice only when the operator demonstrates the alternative standard or practice provides an equivalent level of safety to the public and property. In the event of a conflict between this subpart and ASME/ANSI B31.8S, the requirements in this subpart control.

§192.909 How can an operator change its integrity management program?

(a) General. An operator must document any change to its program and the reasons for the change before implementing the change.

(b) Notification. An operator must notify OPS, in accordance with §192.949, of any change to the program that may substantially affect the program's implementation or may significantly modify the program or schedule for carrying out the program elements. An operator must also notify a State or local pipeline safety authority when either a covered segment is located in a State where OPS has an interstate agent agreement, or an intrastate covered segment is regulated by that State. An operator must provide the notification within 30 days after adopting this type of change into its program.

§192.911 What are the elements of an integrity management program?

An operator's initial integrity management program begins with a framework (see § 192.907) and evolves into a more detailed and comprehensive integrity management program, as information is gained and incorporated into the program. An operator must make continual improvements to its program. The initial program framework and subsequent program must, at minimum, contain the following elements. (When indicated, refer to ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7) for more detailed information on the listed element.)

(a) An identification of all high consequence areas, in accordance with §192.905.

(b) A baseline assessment plan meeting the requirements of §192.919 and §192.921.

(c) An identification of threats to each covered pipeline segment, which must include data integration and a risk assessment. An operator must use the threat identification and risk assessment to prioritize covered segments for assessment (§192.917) and to evaluate the merits of additional preventive and mitigative measures (§192.935) for each covered segment.

(d) A direct assessment plan, if applicable, meeting the requirements of §192.923, and depending on the threat assessed, of §§192.925, 192.927, or 192.929.

(e) Provisions meeting the requirements of §192.933 for remediating conditions found during an integrity assessment.

(f) A process for continual evaluation and assessment meeting the requirements of §192.937.

(g) If applicable, a plan for confirmatory direct assessment meeting the requirements of §192.931.

(h) Provisions meeting the requirements of §192.935 for adding preventive and mitigative measures to protect the high consequence area.

(i) A performance plan as outlined in ASME/ANSI B31.8S, section 9 that includes performance measures meeting the requirements of §192.945.

(j) Record keeping provisions meeting the requirements of §192.947.

(k) A management of change process as outlined in ASME/ANSI B31.8S, section 11.

(l) A quality assurance process as outlined in ASME/ANSI B31.8S, section 12.

(m) A communication plan that includes the elements of ASME/ANSI B31.8S, section 10, and that includes procedures for addressing safety concerns raised by -

(1) OPS; and

(2) a State or local pipeline safety authority when a covered segment is located in a State where OPS has an interstate agent agreement.

(n) Procedures for providing (when requested), by electronic or other means, a copy of the operator's risk analysis or integrity management program to -

(1) OPS; and

(2) a State or local pipeline safety authority when a covered segment is located in a State where OPS has an interstate agent agreement.

(o) Procedures for ensuring that each integrity assessment is being conducted in a manner that minimizes environmental and safety risks.

(p) A process for identification and assessment of newly-identified high consequence areas. (See §192.905 and §192.921.)

§192.913 When may an operator deviate its program from certain requirements of this subpart?

(a) General. ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7) provides the essential features of a performance-based or a prescriptive integrity management program. An operator that uses a performance-based approach that satisfies the requirements for exceptional performance in paragraph (b) of this section may deviate from certain requirements in this subpart, as provided in paragraph (c) of this section.

(b) Exceptional performance. An operator must be able to demonstrate the exceptional performance of its integrity management program through the following actions.

(1) To deviate from any of the requirements set forth in paragraph (c) of this section, an operator must have a performance-based integrity management program that meets or exceed the performance-based requirements of ASME/ANSI B31.8S and includes, at a minimum, the following elements -

(i) A comprehensive process for risk analysis;

(ii) All risk factor data used to support the program;

(iii) A comprehensive data integration process;

(iv) A procedure for applying lessons learned from assessment of covered pipeline segments to pipeline segments not covered by this subpart;

(v) A procedure for evaluating every incident, including its cause, within the operator's sector of the pipeline industry for implications both to the operator's pipeline system and to the operator's integrity management program;

(vi) A performance matrix that demonstrates the program has been effective in ensuring the integrity of the covered segments by controlling the identified threats to the covered segments;

(vii) Semi-annual performance measures beyond those required in §192.945 that are part of the operator's performance plan. (See §192.911(i).) An operator must submit these measures, by electronic or other means, on a semi-annual frequency to OPS in accordance with §192.951; and

(viii) An analysis that supports the desired integrity reassessment interval and the remediation methods to be used for all covered segments.

(2) In addition to the requirements for the performance-based plan, an operator must -

(i) Have completed at least two integrity assessments on each covered pipeline segment the operator is including under the performance-based approach, and be able to demonstrate that each assessment effectively addressed the identified threats on the covered segment.

(ii) remediate all anomalies identified in the more recent assessment according to the requirements in §192.933, and incorporate the results and lessons learned from the more recent assessment into the operator's data integration and risk assessment.

(c) Deviation. Once an operator has demonstrated that it has satisfied the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section, the operator may deviate from the prescriptive requirements of ASME/ANSI B31.8S and of this subpart only in the following instances.

(1) The time frame for reassessment as provided in §192.939 except that reassessment by some method allowed under this subpart (e.g., confirmatory direct assessment) must be carried out at intervals no longer than seven years;

(2) The time frame for remediation as provided in §192.933 if the operator demonstrates the time frame will not jeopardize the safety of the covered segment.

§192.915 What knowledge and training must personnel have to carry out an integrity management program?

(a) Supervisory personnel. The integrity management program must provide that each supervisor whose responsibilities relate to the integrity management program possesses and maintains a thorough knowledge of the integrity management program and of the elements for which the supervisor is responsible. The program must provide that any person who qualifies as a supervisor for the integrity management program has appropriate training or experience in the area for which the person is responsible.

(b) Persons who carry out assessments and evaluate assessment results. The integrity management program must provide criteria for the qualification of any person -

(1) who conducts an integrity assessment allowed under this subpart; or

(2) who reviews and analyzes the results from an integrity assessment and evaluation; or

(3) who makes decisions on actions to be taken based on these assessments.

(c) Persons responsible for preventive and mitigative measures. The integrity management program must provide criteria for the qualification of any person -

(1) who implements preventive and mitigative measures to carry out this subpart, including the marking and locating of buried structures; or

(2) who directly supervises excavation work carried out in conjunction with an integrity assessment.

§192.917 How does an operator identify potential threats to pipeline integrity and use the threat identification in its integrity program?

(a) Threat identification. An operator must identify and evaluate all potential threats to each covered pipeline segment. Potential threats that an operator must consider include, but are not limited to, the threats listed in ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7), section 2, which are grouped under the following four categories:

(1) Time dependent threats such as internal corrosion, external corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking;

(2) Static or resident threats, such as fabrication or construction defects;

(3) Time independent threats such as third party damage and outside force damage; and

(4) Human error.

(b) Data gathering and integration. To identify and evaluate the potential threats to a covered pipeline segment, an operator must gather and integrate existing data and information on the entire pipeline that could be relevant to the covered segment. In performing this data gathering and integration, an operator must follow the requirements in ASME/ANSI B31.8S, section 4. At a minimum, an operator must gather and evaluate the set of data specified in Appendix A to ASME/ANSI B31.8S, and consider both on the covered segment and similar non-covered segments, past incident history, corrosion control records, continuing surveillance records, patrolling records, maintenance history, internal inspection records and all other conditions specific to each pipeline.

(c) Risk assessment. An operator must conduct a risk assessment that follows ASME/ANSI B31.8S, section 5, and considers the identified threats for each covered segment. An operator must use the risk assessment to prioritize the covered segments for the baseline and continual reassessments (§§192.919,192.921, 192.937), and to determine what additional preventive and mitigative measures are needed (§192.935) for the covered segment.

(d) Plastic Transmission Pipeline. An operator of a plastic transmission pipeline must assess the threats to each covered segment using the information in sections 4 and 5 of ASME B31.8S, and consider any threats unique to the integrity of plastic pipe.

(e) Actions to address particular threats. If an operator identifies any of the following threats, the operator must take the following actions to address the threat.

(1) Third party damage. An operator must utilize the data integration required in paragraph (b) of this section and ASME/ ANSI B31.8S, Appendix A7 to determine the susceptibility of each covered segment to the threat of third party damage. If an operator identifies the threat of third party damage, the operator must implement comprehensive additional preventive measures in accordance with §192.935 and monitor the effectiveness of the preventive measures. If, in conducting a baseline assessment under §192.921, or a reassessment under §192.937, an operator uses an internal inspection tool or external corrosion direct assessment, the operator must integrate data from these assessments with data related to any encroachment or foreign line crossing on the covered segment, to define where potential indications of third party damage may exist in the covered segment. An operator must also have procedures in its integrity management program addressing actions it will take to respond to findings from this data integration.

(2) Cyclic fatigue. An operator must evaluate whether cyclic fatigue or other loading condition (including ground movement, suspension bridge condition) could lead to a failure of a deformation, including a dent or gouge, or other defect in the covered segment. An evaluation must assume the presence of threats in the covered segment that could be exacerbated by cyclic fatigue. An operator must use the results from the evaluation together with the criteria used to evaluate the significance of this threat to the covered segment to prioritize the integrity baseline assessment or reassessment.

(3) Manufacturing and construction defects. If an operator identifies the threat of manufacturing and construction defects (including seam defects) in the covered segment, an operator must analyze the covered segment to determine the risk of failure from these defects. The analysis must consider the results of prior assessments on the covered segment. An operator may consider manufacturing and construction related defects to be stable defects if the operating pressure on the covered segment has not increased over the maximum operating pressure experienced during the five years preceding identification of the high consequence area. If any of the following changes occur in the covered segment, an operator must prioritize the covered segment as a high risk segment for the baseline assessment or a subsequent reassessment.

(i) Operating pressure increases above the maximum operating pressure experienced during the preceding five years;

(ii) MAOP increases; or

(iii) The stresses leading to cyclic fatigue increase.

(4) ERW pipe. If a covered pipeline segment contains low frequency electric resistance welded pipe (ERW), lap welded pipe or other pipe that satisfies the conditions specified in ASME/ANSI B31.8 S, Appendices A4.3 and A4.4, and any covered or non covered segment in the pipeline system with such pipe has experienced seam failure, or operating pressure on the covered segment has increased over the maximum operating pressure experienced during the preceding five years, an operator must select an assessment technology or technologies with a proven application capable of assessing seam integrity and seam corrosion anomalies. The operator must prioritize the covered segment as a high risk segment for the baseline assessment or a subsequent reassessment.

(5) Corrosion. If an operator identifies corrosion on a covered pipeline segment that could adversely affect the integrity of the line (conditions specified in §192.933), the operator must evaluate and remediate, as necessary, all pipeline segments (both covered and non-covered) with similar material coating and environmental characteristics. An operator must establish a schedule for evaluating and remediating, as necessary, the similar segments that is consistent with the operator's established operating and maintenance procedures under Part 192 for testing and repair.

§192.919 What must be in the baseline assessment plan?

An operator must include each of the following elements in its written baseline assessment plan:

(a) Identification of the potential threats to each covered pipeline segment and the information supporting the threat identification. (See §192.917.);

(b) The methods selected to assess the integrity of the line pipe, including an explanation of why the assessment method was selected to address the identified threats to each covered segment. The integrity assessment method an operator uses must be based on the threats identified to the covered segment. (See §192.917.) More than one method may be required to address all the threats to the covered pipeline segment;

(c) A schedule for completing the integrity assessment of all covered segments, including, risk factors considered in establishing the assessment schedule;

(d) If applicable, a direct assessment plan that meets the requirements of §§192.923, and depending on the threat to be addressed, of §192.925, §192.927, or §192.929; and

(e) A procedure to ensure that the baseline assessment is being conducted in a manner that minimizes environmental and safety risks.

§192.921 How is the baseline assessment to be conducted?

(a) Assessment methods. An operator must assess the integrity of the line pipe in each covered segment by applying one or more of the following methods depending on the threats to which the covered segment is susceptible. An operator must select the method or methods best suited to address the threats identified to the covered segment (See §192.917).

(1) Internal inspection tool or tools capable of detecting corrosion, and any other threats to which the covered segment is susceptible. An operator must follow ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7), section 6.2 in selecting the appropriate internal inspection tools for the covered segment.

(2) Pressure test conducted in accordance with subpart J of this part. An operator must use the test pressures specified in Table 3 of section 5 of ASME /ANSI B31.8S, to justify an extended reassessment interval in accordance with §192.939.

(3) Direct assessment to address threats of external corrosion, internal corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking. An operator must conduct the direct assessment in accordance with the requirements listed in §192.923 and with, as applicable, the requirements specified in §§192.925, 192.927 or 192.929;

(4) Other technology that an operator demonstrates can provide an equivalent understanding of the condition of the line pipe. An operator choosing this option must notify the Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS) 180 days before conducting the assessment, in accordance with §192.949. An operator must also notify a State or local pipeline safety authority when either a covered segment is located in a State where OPS has an interstate agent agreement, or an intrastate covered segment is regulated by that State.

(b) Prioritizing segments. An operator must prioritize the covered pipeline segments for the baseline assessment according to a risk analysis that considers the potential threats to each covered segment. The risk analysis must comply with the requirements in §192.917.

(c) Assessment for particular threats. In choosing an assessment method for the baseline assessment of each covered segment, an operator must take the actions required in §192.917(e) to address particular threats that it has identified.

(d) Time period. An operator must prioritize all the covered segments for assessment in accordance with § 192.917 (c) and paragraph (b) of this section. An operator must assess at least 50% of the covered segments beginning with the highest risk segments, by December 17, 2007. An operator must complete the baseline assessment of all covered segments by December 17, 2012.

(e) Prior assessment. An operator may use a prior integrity assessment conducted before December 17, 2002 as a baseline assessment for the covered segment, if the integrity assessment meets the baseline requirements in this subpart and subsequent remedial actions to address the conditions listed in §192.933 have been carried out. In addition, if an operator uses this prior assessment as its baseline assessment, the operator must reassess the line pipe in the covered segment according to the requirements of §192.937 and §192.939.

(f) Newly-identified areas. When an operator identifies a new high consequence area (see §192.905), an operator must complete the baseline assessment of the line pipe in the newly- identified high consequence area within ten (10) years from the date the area is identified.

(g) Newly installed pipe. An operator must complete the baseline assessment of a newly- installed segment of pipe covered by this subpart within ten (10) years from the date the pipe is installed. An operator may conduct a pressure test in accordance with paragraph (a)(2) of this section, to satisfy the requirement for a baseline assessment.

(h) Plastic transmission pipeline. If the threat analysis required in §192.917(d) on a plastic transmission pipeline indicates that a covered segment is susceptible to failure from causes other than third-party damage, an operator must conduct a baseline assessment of the segment in accordance with the requirements of this section and of §192.917. The operator must justify the use of an alternative assessment method that will address the identified threats to the covered segment.

§192.923 How is direct assessment used and for what threats?

(a) General. An operator may use direct assessment either as a primary assessment method or as a supplement to the other assessment methods allowed under this subpart. An operator may only use direct assessment as the primary assessment method to address the identified threats of external corrosion (ECDA), internal corrosion (ICDA), and stress corrosion cracking (SCCDA).

(b) Primary Method. An operator using direct assessment as a primary assessment method must have a plan that complies with the requirements in -

(1) ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7), section 6.4; NACE RP0502-2002 (ibr, see §192.7); and §192.925 if addressing external corrosion (ECDA).

(2) ASME/ANSI B31.8S, section 6.4 and Appendix B2, and §192.927 if addressing internal corrosion (ICDA).

(3) ASME/ANSI B31.8S Appendix A3, and §192.929 if addressing stress corrosion cracking (SCCDA).

(c) Supplemental method. An operator using direct assessment as a supplemental assessment method for any applicable threat must have a plan that follows the requirements for confirmatory direct assessment in §192.931.

§192.925 What are the requirements for using External Corrosion Direct Assessment (ECDA)?

(a) Definition. ECDA is a four-step process that combines preassessment, indirect inspection, direct examination, and post assessment to evaluate the threat of external corrosion to the integrity of a pipeline.

(b) General requirements. An operator that uses direct assessment to assess the threat of external corrosion must follow the requirements in this section, in ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7), section 6.4, and in NACE RP 0502-2002 (ibr, see §192.7). An operator must develop and implement a direct assessment plan that has procedures addressing preassessment, indirect examination, direct examination, and post-assessment. If the ECDA detects pipeline coating damage, the operator must also integrate the data from the ECDA with other information from the data integration (§192.917(b)) to evaluate the covered segment for the threat of third party damage, and to address the threat as required by §192.917(e)(1).

(1) Preassessment. In addition to the requirements in ASME/ANSI B31.8S section 6.4 and NACE RP 0502-2002, section 3, the plan's procedures for preassessment must include-

(i) Provisions for applying more restrictive criteria when conducting ECDA for the first time on a covered segment; and

(ii) The basis on which an operator selects at least two different, but complementary indirect assessment tools to assess each ECDA Region. If an operator utilizes an indirect inspection method that is not discussed in Appendix A of NACE RP0502-2002, the operator must demonstrate the applicability, validation basis, equipment used, application procedure, and utilization of data for the inspection method.

(2) Indirect Examination. In addition to the requirements in ASME/ANSI B31.8S section 6.4 and NACE RP 0502-2002, section 4, the plan's procedures for indirect examination of the ECDA regions must include -

(i) Provisions for applying more restrictive criteria when conducting ECDA for the first time on a covered segment;

(ii) Criteria for identifying and documenting those indications that must be considered for excavation and direct examination. Minimum identification criteria include the known sensitivities of assessment tools, the procedures for using each tool, and the approach to be used for decreasing the physical spacing of indirect assessment tool readings when the presence of a defect is suspected;

(iii) Criteria for defining the urgency of excavation and direct examination of each indication identified during the indirect examination. These criteria must specify how an operator will define the urgency of excavating the indication as immediate, scheduled or monitored; and

(iv) Criteria for scheduling excavation of indications for each urgency level.

(3) Direct Examination. In addition to the requirements in ASME/ANSI B31.8S section 6.4 and NACE RP 0502-2002, section 5, the plan's procedures for direct examination of indications from the indirect examination must include -

(i) Provisions for applying more restrictive criteria when conducting ECDA for the first time on a covered segment;

(ii) Criteria for deciding what action should be taken if either (a) corrosion defects are discovered that exceed allowable limits (Section 5.5.2.2 of NACE RP0502-2002), or (b) root cause analysis reveals conditions for which ECDA is not suitable (Section 5.6.2 of NACE RP0502-2002);

(iii) Criteria and notification procedures for any changes in the ECDA Plan, including changes that affect the severity classification, the priority of direct examination, and the time frame for direct examination of indications; and

(iv) Criteria that describe how and on what basis an operator will reclassify and reprioritize any of the provisions that are specified in section 5.9 of NACE RP0502-2002.

(4) Post assessment and continuing evaluation. In addition to the requirements in ASME/ANSI B31.8S section 6.4 and NACE RP 0502-2002, section 6, the plan's procedures for post assessment of the effectiveness of the ECDA process must include -

(i) Measures for evaluating the long-term effectiveness of ECDA in addressing external corrosion in covered segments; and

(ii) Criteria for evaluating whether conditions discovered by direct examination of indications in each ECDA region indicate a need for reassessment of the covered segment at an interval less than that specified in §192.939. (See Appendix D of NACE RP0502-2002.)

§192.927 What are the requirements for using Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment (ICDA)?

(a) Definition. Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment (ICDA) is a process an operator uses to identify areas along the pipeline where fluid or other electrolyte introduced during normal operation or by an upset condition may reside, and then focuses direct examination on the locations in covered segments where internal corrosion is most likely to exist. The process identifies the potential for internal corrosion caused by microorganisms, or fluid with CO₂, O₂, hydrogen sulfide or other contaminants present in the gas.

(b) General requirements. An operator using direct assessment as an assessment method to address internal corrosion in a covered pipeline segment must follow the requirements in this section and in ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7), section 6.4 and Appendix B2. The ICDA process described in this section applies only for a segment of pipe transporting nominally dry natural gas, and not for a segment with electrolyte nominally present in the gas stream. If an operator uses ICDA to assess a covered segment operating with electrolyte present in the gas stream, the operator must develop a plan that demonstrates how it will conduct ICDA in the segment to effectively address internal corrosion, and must provide notification in accordance with §192.921 (a)(4) or §192.937(c)(4).

(c) The ICDA plan. An operator must develop and follow an ICDA plan that provides for preassessment, identification of ICDA regions and excavation locations, detailed examination of pipe at excavation locations, and post-assessment evaluation and monitoring.

(1) Preassessment. In the preassessment stage, an operator must gather and integrate data and information needed to evaluate the feasibility of ICDA for the covered segment, and to support use of a model to identify the locations along the pipe segment where electrolyte may accumulate, to identify ICDA regions, and to identify areas within the covered segment where liquids may potentially be entrained. This data and information includes, but is not limited to -

(i) All data elements listed in Appendix A2 of ASME/ANSI B31.8S;

(ii) Information needed to support use of a model that an operator must use to identify areas along the pipeline where internal corrosion is most likely to occur.(See paragraph (a) of this section.) This information, includes, but is not limited to, location of all gas input and withdrawal points on the line; location of all low points on covered segments such as sags, drips, inclines, valves, manifolds, dead-legs, and traps; the elevation profile of the pipeline in sufficient detail that angles of inclination can be calculated for all pipe segments; and the diameter of the pipeline, and the range of expected gas velocities in the pipeline;

(iii) Operating experience data that would indicate historic upsets in gas conditions, locations where these upsets have occurred, and potential damage resulting from these upset conditions; and

(iv) Information on covered segments where cleaning pigs may not have been used or where cleaning pigs may deposit electrolytes.

(2) ICDA region identification. An operator's plan must identify where all ICDA Regions are located in the transmission system, in which covered segments are located. An ICDA Region extends from the location where liquid may first enter the pipeline and encompasses the entire area along the pipeline where internal corrosion may occur and where further evaluation is needed. An ICDA Region may encompass one or more covered segments. In the identification process, an operator must use the model in GRI 02-0057, "Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment of Gas Transmission Pipelines - Methodology," (ibr, see §192.7). An operator may use another model if the operator demonstrates it is equivalent to the one shown in GRI 02-0057. A model must consider changes in pipe diameter, locations where gas enters a line (potential to introduce liquid) and locations down stream of gas draw-offs (where gas velocity is reduced ) to define the critical pipe angle of inclination above which water film cannot be transported by the gas.

(3) Identification of locations for excavation and direct examination. An operator's plan must identify the locations where internal corrosion is most likely in each ICDA region. In the location identification process, an operator must identify a minimum of two locations for excavation within each ICDA Region within a covered segment and must perform a direct examination for internal corrosion at each location, using ultrasonic thickness measurements, radiography, or other generally accepted measurement technique. One location must be the low point (e.g., sags, drips, valves, manifolds, dead-legs, traps) within the covered segment nearest to the beginning of the ICDA Region. The second location must be further downstream, within a covered segment, near the end of the ICDA Region. If corrosion exists at either location, the operator must-

(i) evaluate the severity of the defect (remaining strength) and remediate the defect in accordance with §192.933;

(ii) as part of the operator's current integrity assessment either perform additional excavations in each covered segment within the ICDA region, or use an alternative assessment method allowed by this subpart to assess the line pipe in each covered segment within the ICDA region for internal corrosion; and

(iii) evaluate the potential for internal corrosion in all pipeline segments (both covered and non-covered) in the operator's pipeline system with similar characteristics to the ICDA region containing the covered segment in which the corrosion was found, and as appropriate, remediate the conditions the operator finds in accordance with §192.933.

(4) Post-assessment evaluation and monitoring. An operator's plan must provide for evaluating the effectiveness of the ICDA process and continued monitoring of covered segments where internal corrosion has been identified. The evaluation and monitoring process includes-

(i) Evaluating the effectiveness of ICDA as an assessment method for addressing internal corrosion and determining whether a covered segment should be reassessed at more frequent intervals than those specified in §192.939. An operator must carry out this evaluation within a year of conducting an ICDA; and

(ii) continually monitoring each covered segment where internal corrosion has been identified using techniques such as coupons, UT sensors or electronic probes, periodically drawing off liquids at low points and chemically analyzing the liquids for the presence of corrosion products. An operator must base the frequency of the monitoring and liquid analysis on results from all integrity assessments that have been conducted in accordance with the requirements of this subpart, and risk factors specific to the covered segment. If an operator finds any evidence of corrosion products in the covered segment, the operator must take prompt action in accordance with one of the two following required actions and remediate the conditions the operator finds in accordance with §192.933.

(A) conduct excavations of covered segments at locations downstream from where the electrolyte might have entered the pipe; or

(B) assess the covered segment using another integrity assessment method allowed by this subpart.

(5) Other requirements. The ICDA plan must also include -

(i) criteria an operator will apply in making key decisions (e.g., ICDA feasibility, definition of ICDA Regions, conditions requiring excavation) in implementing each stage of the ICDA process;

(ii) provisions for applying more restrictive criteria when conducting ICDA for the first time on a covered segment and that become less stringent as the operator gains experience; and

(iii) provisions that analysis be carried out on the entire pipeline in which covered segments are present, except that application of the remediation criteriaof §192.933 may be limited to covered segments.

§192.929 What are the requirements for using Direct Assessment for Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCCDA)?

(a) Definition. Stress Corrosion Cracking Direct Assessment (SCCDA) is a process to assess a covered pipe segment for the presence of SCC primarily by systematically gathering and analyzing excavation data for pipe having similar operational characteristics and residing in a similar physical environment.

(b) General Requirements. An operator using direct assessment as an integrity assessment method to address stress corrosion cracking in a covered pipeline segment must have a plan that provides, at minimum, for -

(1) Data gathering and integration. An operator's plan must provide for a systematic process to collect and evaluate data for all covered segments to identify whether the conditions for SCC are present and to prioritize the covered segments for assessment. This process must include gathering and evaluating data related to SCC at all sites an operator excavates during the conduct of its pipeline operations where the criteria in ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7), Appendix A3.3 indicate the potential for SCC. This data includes at minimum, the data specified in ASME/ANSI B31.8S, Appendix A3.

(2) Assessment method. The plan must provide that if conditions for SCC are identified in a covered segment, an operator must assess the covered segment using an integrity assessment method specified in ASME/ANSI B31.8S, Appendix A3, and remediate the threat in accordance with ASME/ANSI B31.8S, Appendix A3, section A3.4.

§192.931 How may Confirmatory Direct Assessment (CDA) be used?

An operator using the confirmatory direct assessment (CDA) method as allowed in §192.937 must have a plan that meets the requirements of this section and of §§192.925 (ECDA) and §192.927 (ICDA).

(a) Threats. An operator may only use CDA on a covered segment to identify damage resulting from external corrosion or internal corrosion.

(b) External corrosion plan. An operator's CDA plan for identifying external corrosion must comply with §192.925 with the following exceptions.

(1) The procedures for indirect examination may allow use of only one indirect examination tool suitable for the application.

(2) The procedures for direct examination and remediation must provide that -

(i) All immediate action indications must be excavated for each ECDA region; and

(ii) At least one high risk indication that meets the criteria of scheduled action must be excavated in each ECDA region.

(c) Internal corrosion plan. An operator's CDA plan for identifying internal corrosion must comply with §192.927 except that the plan's procedures for identifying locations for excavation may require excavation of only one high risk location in each ICDA region.

(d) Defects requiring near-term remediation. If an assessment carried out under paragraph (b) or (c) of this section reveals any defect requiring remediation prior to the next scheduled assessment, the operator must schedule the next assessment in accordance with NACE RP 0502-2002 (ibr, see §192.7), section 6.2 and 6.3. If the defect requires immediate remediation, then the operator must reduce pressure consistent with §192.933 until the operator has completed reassessment using one of the assessment techniques allowed in §192.937.

§192.933 What actions must be taken to address integrity issues?

(a) General requirements. An operator must take prompt action to address all anomalous conditions that the operator discovers through the integrity assessment. In addressing all conditions, an operator must evaluate all anomalous conditions and remediate those that could reduce a pipeline's integrity. An operator must be able to demonstrate that the remediation of the condition will ensure that the condition is unlikely to pose a threat to the integrity of the pipeline until the next reassessment of the covered segment. If an operator is unable to respond within the time limits for certain conditions specified in this section, the operator must temporarily reduce the operating pressure of the pipeline or take other action that ensures the safety of the covered segment. If pressure is reduced, an operator must determine the temporary reduction in operating pressure using ASME/ANSI B31G (ibr, see §192.7) or AGA Pipeline Research Committee Project PR-3-805 ([RSTRENG]; ibr, see §192.7) or reduce the operating pressure to a level not exceeding 80% of the level at the time the condition was discovered. (See Appendix A to this part 192 for information on availability of incorporation by reference information). A reduction in operating pressure cannot exceed 365 days without an operator providing a technical justification that the continued pressure restriction will not jeopardize the integrity of the pipeline.

(b) Discovery of condition. Discovery of a condition occurs when an operator has adequate information about a condition to determine that the condition presents a potential threat to the integrity of the pipeline. A condition that presents a potential threat includes, but is not limited to, those conditions that require remediation or monitoring listed under paragraphs (d)(1) through (d)(3) of this section. An operator must promptly, but no later than 180 days after conducting an integrity assessment, obtain sufficient information about a condition to make that determination, unless the operator demonstrates that the 180-day period is impracticable.

(c) Schedule for evaluation and remediation. An operator must complete remediation of a condition according to a schedule that prioritizes the conditions for evaluation and remediation. Unless a special requirement for remediating certain conditions applies, as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, an operator must follow the schedule in ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7), section 7, Figure 4. If an operator cannot meet the schedule for any condition, the operator must justify the reasons why it cannot meet the schedule and that the changed schedule will not jeopardize public safety. An operator must notify OPS in accordance with §192.949 if it cannot meet the schedule and cannot provide safety through a temporary reduction in operating pressure or other action. An operator must also notify a State or local pipeline safety authority when either a covered segment is located in a State where OPS has an interstate agent agreement, or an intrastate covered segment is regulated by that State.

(d) Special requirements for scheduling remediation.

(1) Immediate repair conditions. An operator's evaluation and remediation schedule must follow ASME/ANSI B31.8S, section 7 in providing for immediate repair conditions. To maintain safety, an operator must temporarily reduce operating pressure in accordance with paragraph (a) of this section or shut down the pipeline until the operator completes the repair of these conditions. An operator must treat the following conditions as immediate repair conditions:

(i) A calculation of the remaining strength of the pipe shows a predicted failure pressure less than or equal to1.1 times the maximum allowable operating pressure at the location of the anomaly. Suitable remaining strength calculationmethods include, ASME/ANSI B31G; RSTRENG; or an alternative equivalent method of remaining strength calculation. These documents are incorporated by reference and available at the addresses listed in Appendix A to Part 192.

(ii) A dent that has any indication of metal loss, cracking or a stress riser.

(iii) An indication or anomaly that in the judgment of the person designated by the operator to evaluate the assessment results requires immediate action.

(2) One-year conditions. Except for conditions listed in paragraph (d)(1) and (d)(3) of this section, an operator must remediate any of the following within one year of discovery of the condition:

(i) A smooth dent located between the 8 o'clock and 4 o'clock positions(upper 2/3 of the pipe) with a depth greater than 6% of the pipeline diameter (greater than 0.50 inches in depth for a pipeline diameter less than Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) 12).

(ii) A dent with a depth greater than 2% of the pipeline's diameter (0.250 inches in depth for a pipeline diameter less than NPS 12) that affects pipe curvature at a girth weld or at a longitudinal seam weld.

(3) Monitored conditions. An operator does not have to schedule the following conditions for remediation, but must record and monitor the conditions during subsequent risk assessments and integrity assessments for any change that may require remediation:

(i) A dent with a depth greater than 6% of the pipeline diameter (greater than 0.50 inches in depth for a pipeline diameter less than NPS 12) located between the 4 o'clock position and the 8 o'clock position (bottom 1/3 of the pipe).

(ii) A dent located between the 8 o'clock and 4 o'clock positions (upper 2/3 of the pipe) with a depth greater than 6% of the pipeline diameter (greater than 0.50 inches in depth for a pipeline diameter less than Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) 12), and engineering analyses of the dent demonstrate critical strain levels are not exceeded.

(iii) A dent with a depth greater than 2% of the pipeline's diameter (0.250 inches in depth for a pipeline diameter less than NPS 12) that affects pipe curvature at a girth weld or a longitudinal seam weld, and engineering analyses of the dent and girth or seam weld demonstrate critical strain levels are notexceeded. These analyses must consider weld properties.

§192.935 What additional preventive and mitigative measures must an operator take?

(a) General Requirements. An operator must take additional measures beyond those already required by Part 192 to prevent a pipeline failure and to mitigate the consequences of a pipeline failure in a high consequence area. An operator must base the additional measures on the threats the operator has identified to each pipeline segment. (See §192.917.) An operator must conduct, in accordance with one of the risk assessment approaches in ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7), section 5, a risk analysis of its pipeline to identify additional measures to protect the high consequence area and enhance public safety. Such additional measures include, but are not limited to, installing Automatic Shut-off Valves or Remote Control Valves, installing computerized monitoring and leak detection systems, replacing pipe segments with pipe of heavier wall thickness, providing additional training to personnel on response procedures, conducting drills with local emergency responders and implementing additional inspection and maintenance programs.

(b) Third Party Damage and Outside Force Damage.

(1) Third party damage. An operator must enhance its damage prevention program, as required under §192.614 of this part, with respect to a covered segment to prevent and minimize the consequences of a release due to third party damage. Enhanced measures to an existing damage prevention program include, at a minimum-

(i) Using qualified personnel (see §192.915) for work an operator is conducting that could adversely affect the integrity of a covered segment, suchas marking, locating, and direct supervision of known excavation work.

(ii) Collecting in a central database information that is location specific on excavation damage that occurs in covered and non covered segments in the transmission system and the root cause analysis to support identification of targeted additional preventative and mitigative measures in the high consequence areas. This information must include recognized damage that is not required to be reported as an incident under Part 191.

(iii) Participating in one-call systems in locations where covered segments are present.

(iv) Monitoring of excavations conducted on covered pipeline segments by pipeline personnel. If an operator finds physical evidence of encroachment involving excavation that the operator did not monitor near a covered segment, an operator must either excavate the area near the encroachment or conduct an above ground survey using methods defined in NACE RP-0502-2002 (ibr, see §192.7). An operator must excavate, and remediate, in accordance with ANSI/ASME B31.8S and §192.933 any indication of coating holidays or discontinuity warranting direct examination.

(2) Outside force damage. If an operator determines that outside force (e.g., earth movement, floods, unstable suspension bridge) is a threat to the integrity of a covered segment, the operator must take measures to minimize the consequences to the covered segment from outside force damage. These measures include, but are not limited to, increasing the frequency of aerial, foot or other methods of patrols, adding external protection, reducing external stress, and relocating the line.

(c) Automatic shut-off valves (ASV) or Remote control valves (RCV). If an operator determines, based on a risk analysis, that an ASV or RCV would be an efficient means of adding protection to a high consequence area in the event of a gas release, an operator must install the ASV or RCV. In making that determination, an operator must, at least, consider the following factors - swiftness of leak detection and pipe shutdown capabilities, the type of gas being transported, operating pressure, the rate of potential release, pipeline profile, the potential for ignition, and location of nearest response personnel.

(d) Pipelines operating below 30% SMYS. An operator of a transmission pipeline operating below 30% SMYS located in a high consequence area must follow the requirements in paragraphs (d)(1) and (d)(2)of this section, the requirements for a low stress external corrosion reassessment in §192.941(b) and the requirements for a low stress internal corrosion reassessment in §192.941(c). An operator of a transmission pipeline operating below 30% SMYS located in a Class 3 or Class 4 area but not in a high consequence area must follow the requirements in paragraphs (d)(1), (d)(2) and (d)(3) of this section.

(1) Apply the requirements in paragraphs (b)(1)(i) and (b)(1)(iii) of this section to the pipeline; and

(2) Either monitor excavations near the pipeline, or conduct patrols as required by §192.705 of the pipeline at bi-monthly intervals. If an operator finds any indication of unreported construction activity, the operator must conduct a follow up investigation to determine if mechanical damage has occurred.

(3) Perform semi-annual leak surveys (quarterly for unprotected pipelines or cathodically protected pipe where electrical surveys are impractical).

(e) Plastic transmission pipeline. An operator of a plastic transmission pipeline must apply the requirements in paragraphs (b)(1)(i), (b)(1)(iii) and b(1)(iv) of this section to the covered segments of the pipeline.

§192.937 What is a continual process of evaluation and assessment to maintain a pipeline's integrity?

(a) General. After completing the baseline integrity assessment of a covered segment, an operator must continue to assess the line pipe of that segment at the intervals specified in §192.939 and periodically evaluate the integrity of each covered pipeline segment as provided in paragraph (b) of this section. An operator must reassess a covered segment on which a prior assessment is credited as a baseline under §192.921(e) by no later than December 17, 2009. An operator must reassess a covered segment on which a baseline assessment is conducted during the baseline period specified in §192.921(d) by no later than seven years after the baseline assessment of that covered segment unless the evaluation under paragraph (b) of this section indicates earlier reassessment.

(b) Evaluation. An operator must conduct a periodic evaluation as frequently as needed to assure the integrity of each covered segment. The periodic evaluation must be based on a data integration and risk assessment of the entire pipeline as specified in §192.917. For plastic transmission pipelines, the periodic evaluation is based on the threat analysis specified in 192.917(d). For all other transmission pipelines, the evaluation must consider the past and present integrity assessment results, data integration and risk assessment information (§192.917), and decisions about remediation (§192.933) and additional preventive and mitigative actions (§192.935). An operator must use the results from this evaluation to identify the threats specific to each covered segment and the risk represented by these threats.

(c) Assessment methods. In conducting the integrity reassessment, an operator must assess the integrity of the line pipe in the covered segment by any of the following methods as appropriate for the threats to which the covered segment is susceptible (see §192.917), or by confirmatory direct assessment under the conditions specified in §192.931.

(1) Internal inspection tool or tools capable of detecting corrosion, and any other threats to which the covered segment is susceptible. An operator must follow ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7), section 6.2 in selecting the appropriate internal inspection tools for the covered segment.

(2) Pressure test conducted in accordance with subpart J of this part. An operator must use the test pressures specified in Table 3 of section 5 of ASME/ANSI B31.8S, to justify an extended reassessment interval in accordance with §192.939.

(3) Direct assessment to address threats of external corrosion, internal corrosion, or stress corrosion cracking. An operator must conduct the direct assessment in accordance with the requirements listed in §192.923 and with as applicable, the requirements specified in §§192.925, 192.927 or 192.929;

(4) Other technology that an operator demonstrates can provide an equivalent understanding of the condition of the line pipe. An operator choosing this option must notify the Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS) 180 days before conducting the assessment, in accordance with §192.949. An operator must also notify a State or local pipeline safety authority when either a covered segment is located in a State where OPS has an interstate agent agreement, or an intrastate covered segment is regulated by that State.

(5) Confirmatory direct assessment when used on a covered segment that is scheduled for reassessment at a period longer than seven years. An operator using this reassessment method must comply with §192.931.

§192.939 What are the required reassessment intervals?

An operator must comply with the following requirements in establishing the reassessment interval for the operator's covered pipeline segments.

(a) Pipelines operating at or above 30% SMYS. An operator must establish a reassessment interval for each covered segment operating at or above 30% SMYS in accordance with the requirements of this section. The maximum reassessment interval by an allowable reassessment method is seven years. If an operator establishes a reassessment interval that is greater than seven years, the operator must, within the seven-year period, conduct a confirmatory direct assessment on the covered segment, and then conduct the follow-up reassessment at the interval the operator has established. A reassessment carried out using confirmatory direct assessment must be done in accordance with §192.931. The table that follows this section sets forth the maximum allowed reassessment intervals.

(1) Pressure test or internal inspection or other equivalent technology. An operator that uses pressure testing or internal inspection as an assessment method must establish the reassessment interval for a covered pipeline segment by -

(i) Basing the interval on the identified threats for the covered segment (see §192.917) and on the analysis of the results from the last integrity assessment and from the data integration and risk assessment required by §192.917; or

(ii) Using the intervals specified for different stress levels of pipeline (operating at or above 30% SMYS) listed in ASME/ANSI B31.8S, section 5, Table 3.

(2) External Corrosion Direct assessment. An operator that uses ECDA that meets the requirements of this subpart must determine the reassessment interval according to the requirements in paragraphs 6.2 and 6.3 of NACE RP0502-2002 (ibr, see §192.7).

(3) Internal Corrosion or SCC Direct Assessment. An operator that uses ICDA or SCCDA in accordance with the requirements of this subpart must determine the reassessment interval according to the following method. However, the reassessment interval cannot exceed those specified for direct assessment in ASME/ANSI B31.8S, section 5, Table 3.

(i) Determine the largest defect most likely to remain in the covered segment and the corrosion rate appropriate for the pipe, soil and protection conditions;

(ii) Use the largest remaining defect as the size of the largest defect discovered in the SCC or ICDA segment; and

(iii) Estimate the reassessment interval as half the time required for the largest defect to grow to a critical size.

(b) Pipelines Operating Below 30% SMYS. An operator must establish a reassessment interval for each covered segment operating below 30% SMYS in accordance with the requirements of this section. The maximum reassessment interval by an allowable reassessment method is seven years. An operator must establish reassessment by at least one of the following -

(1) Reassessment by pressure test, internal inspection or other equivalent technology following the requirements in paragraph (a)(1) of this section except that the stress level referenced in(a)(1) (ii) would be adjusted to reflect the lower operating stress level. If an established interval is more than seven years, the operator must conduct by the seventh year of the interval either a confirmatory direct assessment in accordance with §192.931, or a low stress reassessment in accordance with §192.941.

(2) Reassessment by ECDA following the requirements in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.

(3) Reassessment by ICDA or SCCDA following the requirements in paragraph (a)(3) of this section.

(4) Reassessment by confirmatory direct assessment at 7-year intervals in accordance with §192.931, with reassessment by one of the methods listed in (b)(1)-(b)(3) of this section by year 20 of the interval.

(5) Reassessment by the low stress assessment method at 7-year intervals in accordance with §192.941 with reassessment by one of the methods listed in paragraphs (b)(1) through (b)(3) of this section by year 20 of the interval.

(6) The following table sets forth the maximum reassessment intervals. Also refer to Appendix E.II for guidance on Assessment Methods and Assessment Schedule for Transmission Pipelines Operating Below 30% SMYS. In case of conflict between the rule and the guidance in the Appendix, the requirements of the rule control. An operator must comply with the following requirements in establishing a reassessment interval for a covered segment:

An operator must comply with the following requirements in establishing a reassessment interval for a covered segment:

Maximum Reassessment Interval
Assessment Method	Pipeline operating at or above 50% SMYS	Pipeline operating at or above 30% SMYS, up to 50% SMYS	Pipeline operating below 30% SMYS
Internal Inspection Tool, Pressure Test or Direct Assessment	10 years(*)	15 years(*)	20 years(**)
Confirmatory Direct Assessment	7 years	7 years	7 years
Low stress reassessment	not applicable	not applicable	7 years + ongoing actions specified in §192.941

(*) A Confirmatory direct assessment as described in §192.931 must be conducted by year 7 in a 10-year interval and years 7 and 14 of a 15-year interval.

(**) A low stress reassessment or Confirmatory direct assessment must be conducted by years 7 and 14 of the interval.

§192.941 What is a low stress reassessment?

(a) General. An operator of a transmission line that operates below 30% SMYS may use the following method to reassess a covered segment in accordance with §192.939. This method of reassessment addresses the threats of external and internal corrosion. The operator must have conducted a baseline assessment of the covered segment in accordance with the requirements of §§192.919 and 192.921.

(b) External Corrosion. An operator must take one of the following actions to address external corrosion on the low stress covered segment.

(1) Cathodically Protected Pipe. To address the threat of external corrosion on cathodically protected pipe in a covered segment, an operator must perform an electrical survey (i.e. indirect examination tool/method) at least every 7 years on the covered segment. An operator must use the results of each survey as part of an overall evaluation of the cathodic protection and corrosion threat for the covered segment. This evaluation must consider, at minimum, the leak repair and inspection records, corrosion monitoring records, exposed pipe inspection records, and the pipeline environment.

(2) Unprotected Pipe or Cathodically Protected Pipe Where Electrical Surveys are Impractical. If an electrical survey is impractical on the covered segment an operator must -

(i) Conduct leakage surveys as required by §192.706 at 4-month intervals; and

(ii) Every 18 months, identify and remediate areas of active corrosion by evaluating leak repair and inspection records, corrosion monitoring records, exposed pipe inspection records, and the pipeline environment.

(c) Internal Corrosion. To address the threat of internal corrosion on a covered segment, an operator must -

(1) Conduct a gas analysis for corrosive agents at least once each calendar year;

(2) Conduct periodic testing of fluids removed from the segment. At least once each calendar year test the fluids removed from each storage field that may affect a covered segment; and

(3) At least every seven (7) years, integrate data from the analysis and testing required by paragraphs (c)(1)- (c)(2) with applicable internal corrosion leak records, incident reports, safety- related condition reports, repair records, patrol records, exposed pipe reports, and test records, and define and implement appropriate remediation actions.

§192.943 When can an operator deviate from these reassessment intervals?

(a) Waiver from reassessment interval in limited situations. In the following limited instances, OPS may allow a waiver from a reassessment interval required by §192.939 if OPS finds a waiver would not be inconsistent with pipeline safety.

(1) Lack of internal inspection tools. An operator who uses internal inspection as an assessment method may be able to justify a longer reassessment period for a covered segment if internal inspection tools are not available to assess the line pipe. To justify this, the operator must demonstrate that it cannot obtain the internal inspection tools within the required reassessment period and that the actions the operator is taking in the interim ensure the integrity of the covered segment.

(2) Maintain product supply. An operator may be able to justify a longer reassessment period for a covered segment if the operator demonstrates that it cannot maintain local product supply if it conducts the reassessment within the required interval.

(b) How to apply. If one of the conditions specified in paragraph (a) (1) or (a) (2) of this section applies, an operator may seek a waiver of the required reassessment interval. An operator must apply for a waiver in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 60118(c), at least 180 days before the end of the required reassessment interval, unless local product supply issues make the period impractical. If local product supply issues make the period impractical, an operator must apply for the waiver as soon as the need for the waiver becomes known.

§192.945 What methods must an operator use to measure program effectiveness?

(a) General. An operator must include in its integrity management program methods to measure, on a semi-annual basis, whether the program is effective in assessing and evaluating the integrity of each covered pipeline segment and in protecting the high consequence areas. These measures must include the four overall performance measures specified in ASME/ANSI B31.8S (ibr, see §192.7), section 9.4, and the specific measures for each identified threat specified in ASME/ANSI B31.8S, Appendix A. An operator must submit the four overall performance measures, by electronic or other means, on a semi-annual frequency to OPS in accordance with §192.951. An operator must submit its first report on overall performance measures by August 31, 2004. Thereafter, the performance measures must be complete through June 30 and December 31 of each year and must be submitted within 2 months after those dates.

(b) External Corrosion Direct assessment. In addition to the general requirements for performance measures in paragraph (a) of this section, an operator using direct assessment to assess the external corrosion threat must define and monitor measures to determine the effectiveness of the ECDA process. These measures must meet the requirements of §192.925.

§192.947 What records must an operator keep?

An operator must maintain, for the useful life of the pipeline, records that demonstrate compliance with the requirements of this subpart. At minimum, an operator must maintain the following records for review during an inspection.

(a) A written integrity management program in accordance with §192.907;

(b) Documents supporting the threat identification and risk assessment in accordance with §192.917;

(c) A written baseline assessment plan in accordance with§192.919;

(d) Documents to support any decision, analysis and process developed and used to implement and evaluate each element of the baseline assessment plan and integrity management program. Documents include those developed and used in support of any identification, calculation, amendment, modification, justification, deviation and determination made, and any action taken to implement and evaluate any of the program elements;

(e) Documents that demonstrate personnel have the required training, including a description of the training program, in accordance with §192.915;

(f) Schedule required by §192.933 that prioritizes the conditions found during an assessment for evaluation and remediation, including technical justifications for the schedule.

(g) Documents to carry out the requirements in §§192.923 through 192.929 for a direct assessment plan;

(h) Documents to carry out the requirements in §192.931 for confirmatory direct assessment;

(i) Verification that an operator has provided any documentation or notification required by this subpart to be provided to OPS, and when applicable, a State authority with which OPS has an interstate agent agreement, and a State or local pipeline safety authority that regulates a covered pipeline segment within that State.

§192.949 How does an operator notify OPS?

An operator must provide any notification required by this subpart by -

(1) Sending the notification to the Information Resources Manager, Office of Pipeline Safety, Research and Special Programs Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, Room 7128, 400 Seventh Street SW, Washington DC 20590;

(2) Sending the notification to the Information Resources Manager by facsimile to (202) 366-7128; or

(3) Entering the information directly on the Integrity Management Database (IMDB) web site at http://primis.rspa.dot.gov/gasimp/ .

§192.951 Where does an operator file a report?

An operator must send any performance report required by this subpart to the Information Resources Manager -

(1) by mail to the Office of Pipeline Safety, Research and Special Programs Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, Room 7128, 400 Seventh Street S.W., Washington, DC 20590;

(2) via facsimile to (202)366-7128; or

(3) through the online reporting system provided by OPS for electronic reporting available at the OPS Home Page at http://ops.dot.gov.

APPENDIX A-INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

I. List of Organizations and Addresses.

A. American Gas Association (AGA), 1515 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22209

B. American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 11 West 42nd Street, New York, N.Y. 10036.

C. American Petroleum Institute (API), 1220 L. Street, NW., Washington, D.C. 20005.

D. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) United Engineering Center, 345 East 47th Street, New York, N.Y. 10017.

E. American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.

F. Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry (MSS), 127 Park Street, NW., Vienna, VA 22180.

G. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101, Quincy, MA. 02269-9101.

II. Documents Incorporated by Reference. (Numbers in parentheses indicate applicable editions.)

A. American Gas Association (AGA):

1. AGA Pipeline Research Committee, Project PR-3-805, "A Modified Criterion for Evaluating the Remaining Strength of Corroded Pipe" (December 22, 1989)

B. American Petroleum Institute (API):

1. API Specification 5L "Specification for Line Pipe" (41st edition, 1995).

2. API Recommended Practice 5L1 "Recommended Practice for Railroad Transportation of Line Pipe" (4th edition, 1990).

3. API Specification 6D "Specification for Pipeline Valves (Gate, Plug, Ball, and Check Valves)" (21st edition, 1994).

4. API Standard 1104 "Welding of Pipelines and Related Facilities" (18th Edition, 1994).

C. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM):

1. ASTM Designation: A 53 "Standard Specification for Pipe, Steel, Black and Hot Dipped, Zinc-Coated, Welded and Seamless" (A53-96).

2. ASTM Designation A 106 "Standard Specification for Seamless Carbon Steel Pipe for High-Temperature Service" (A106-95).

3. ASTM Designation: A 333/A 333M "Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Steel Pipe for Low-Temperature Service" (A 333/A 333M-94).

4. ASTM Designation: A 372/A 372M "Standard Specification for Carbon and Alloy Steel Forgings for Thin-Walled Pressure Vessels" (A 372/A 372M-95).

5. ASTM Designation: A 381 "Standard Specification for Metal-Arc-Welded Steel Pipe for Use with High-Pressure Transmission Systems" (A 381-93).

6. ASTM Designation: A 671 "Standard Specification for Electric-Fusion-Welded Steel Pipe for Atmospheric and Lower Temperatures" (A 671-94).

7. ASTM Designation: A 672 "Standard Specification for Electric-Fusion-Welded Steel Pipe for High-Pressure Service at Moderate Temperatures" (A 672-94).

8. ASTM Designation: A 691 "Standard Specification for Carbon and Alloy Steel Pipe, Electric-Fusion-Welded for High-Pressure Service at High Temperatures" (A 691-93).

9. ASTM Designation D638 "Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics" (D638-96).

10. ASTM Designation D2513 "Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing and Fittings" (D2513-87 edition for § 192.63(a)(1), otherwise D2513-96a).

11. ASTM Designation: D 2517 "Standard Specification for Reinforced Epoxy Resin Gas Pressure Pipe and Fittings" (D 2517-94).

12. ASTM Designation: F 1055 "Standard Specification for Electrofusion Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyethylene Pipe and Tubing (F 1055-95).

D. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME):

1. ASME/ANSI B16.1 "Cast Iron Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings" (1989).

2. ASME/ANSI B16.5 "Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings" (1988 with October 1988 Errata and ASME/ANSI B16.5a-1992 Addenda).

3. ASME/ANSI B31G "Manual for Determining the Remaining Strength of Corroded Pipelines (1991).

4. ASME/ANSI B31.8 "Gas Transmission and Distribution Systems (1995).

5. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section I "Power Boilers" (1995 edition with 1995 Addenda).

6. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Division 1 "Pressure Vessels" (1995 edition with 1995 Addenda).

7. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Division 2 "Pressure Vessels: Alternative Rules" (1995 edition with 1995 Addenda).

8. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section IX "Welding and Brazing Qualifications" (1995 edition with 1995 Addenda).

9. ASME/ANSI B31.8S- 2001 (Supplement to B31.8), "Managing System Integrity of Gas Pipelines," July19, 2002.

E. Manufacturer's Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry, Inc. (MSS):

1. MSS SP44-96 "Steel Pipe Line Flanges" (includes 1996 errata) (1996).

2. [Reserved].

F. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

1. NFPA 30 "Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code" (1996).

2. ANSI/NFPA Standard 58 "Standard for the Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases" (1995).

3. ANSI/NFPA Standard 59 "Standard for the Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases at Utility Gas Plants" (1995).

4. ANSI/NFPA 70 "National Electrical Code" (1996).

G. NACE International

1. NACE RP-0502-2002 "Pipeline External Corrosion Direct Assessment Methodology," 2002.

H. Gas Research Institute

1. GRI 02-0057, "Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment of Gas Transmission Pipelines - Methodology," April 1, 2002.

APPENDIX B-QUALIFICATION OF PIPE

I. Listed Pipe Specifications. Numbers in parentheses indicate applicable editions.

NOTE: Galvanized pipe of any specification shall not be used to transport natural gas.

API 5L -- Steel Pipe (1995).

ASTM A 53 -- Steel Pipe (1995a).

ASTM A 106 -- Steel Pipe (1994a).

ASTM A 333/A 333M -- Steel Pipe (1994).

ASTM A 381 -- Steel Pipe (1993).

ASTM A 671 -- Steel Pipe (1994).

ASTM A 672 -- Steel pipe (1994).

ASTM A 691 -- Steel Pipe (1993).

ASTM D 2513 -- Thermoplastic Pipe and Tubing (1995c).

ASTM D 2517 -- Thermosetting Plastic Pipe and Tubing (1994).

II. Steel Pipe of Unknown or Unlisted Specification.

A. Bending Properties. For pipe 2 inches (51 millimeters) or less in diameter, a length of pipe must be cold bent through at least 90 degrees around a cylindrical mandrel that has a diameter 12 times the diameter of the pipe, without developing cracks at any portion and without opening the longitudinal weld. For pipe more than 2 inches (51 millimeters) in diameter, the pipe must meet the requirements of the flattening tests set forth in ASTM A53, except that the number of tests must be at least equal to the minimum required in Paragraph II-D of this appendix to determine yield strength.

B. Weldability. A girth weld must be made in the pipe by a welder who is qualified under Subpart E of this part. The weld must be made under the most severe conditions under which welding will be allowed in the fields and by means of the same procedure that will be used in the field. On pipe more than 4 inches (102 millimeters) in diameter, at least one test weld must be made for each 100 lengths of pipe. On pipe 4 inches (102 millimeters) or less in diameter, at least one test weld must be made for each 400 lengths of pipe. The weld must be tested in accordance with API Standard 1104. If the requirements of API Standard 1104 cannot be met, weldability may be established by making chemical tests for carbon and manganese, and proceeding in accordance with Section IX of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. The same number of chemical tests must be made as are required for testing a girth weld.

C. Inspection. The pipe must be clean enough to permit adequate inspection. It must be visually inspected to ensure that it is reasonably round and straight and there are no defects which might impair the strength or tightness of the pipe.

D. Tensile properties. If the tensile properties of the pipe are not known, the minimum yield strength may be taken as 24,000 psi. (165 MPa) or less, or the tensile properties may be established by performing tensile tests as set forth in API Specification 5L. All test specimens shall be selected at random and the following number of tests must be performed:

Number of Tensile Tests -- All Sizes

10 lengths or less:

1 set of tests for each length.

11 to 100 lengths:

1 set of tests for each 5 lengths, but not less than 10 tests.

Over 100 lengths:

1 set of tests for each 10 lengths, but not less than 20 tests.

If the yield-tensile ratio, based on the properties determined by those tests, exceeds 0.85, the pipe may be used only as provided in Paragraph 192.55(c).

III. Steel Pipe Manufactured Before November 12, 1970, to Earlier Editions of Listed Specifications.

Steel pipe manufactured before November 12, 1970, in accordance with a specification of which a later edition is listed in Section I of this appendix, is qualified for use under this part if the following requirements are met:

A. QInspection. The pipe must be clean enough to permit adequate inspection. It must be visually inspected to ensure that it is reasonably round and straight and that there are no defects which might impair the strength or tightness of the pipe.

B. Similarity of specification requirements. The edition of the listed specification under which the pipe was manufactured must have substantially the same requirements with respect to the following properties as a later edition of that specification listed in Section I of this appendix:

(1) Physical (mechanical) properties of pipe, including yield and tensile strength, elongation, and yield to tensile ratio, and testing requirements to verify those properties.

(2) Chemical properties of pipe and testing requirements to verify those properties.

C. Inspection or test of welded pipe. On pipe with welded seams, one of the following requirements must be met:

(1) The edition of the listed specification to which the pipe was manufactured must have substantially the same requirements with respect to nondestructive inspection of welded seams and the standards for acceptance or rejection and repair as a later edition of the specification listed in Section I of this appendix.

(2) The pipe must be tested in accordance with Subpart J of this part to at least 1.25 times the maximum allowable operating pressure if it is to be installed in a Class 1 location and to at least 1.5 times the maximum allowable operating pressure if it is to be installed in a Class 2, 3 or 4 location. Notwithstanding any shorter time period permitted under Subpart J of this part, the test pressure must be maintained for at least 8 hours.

APPENDIX C-QUALIFICATION OF WELDERS FOR LOW STRESS LEVEL PIPE

I. Basic Test.

The test is made on pipe 12 inches (305 millimeters) or less in diameter. The test weld must be made with the pipe in a horizontal fixed position so that the test weld includes at least one section of overhead position welding. The beveling, root opening and other details must conform to the specifications of the procedure under which the welder is being qualified. Upon completion, the test weld is cut into four coupons and subjected to a root bend test. If, as a result of this test, two or more of the four coupons develop a crack in the weld material or between the weld material and base metal, that is more than c inch (3.2 millimeters) long in any direction, the weld is unacceptable. Cracks that occur on the corner of the specimen during testing are not considered.

II. Additional Tests for Welders of Service Line Connections to Mains.

A service line connection fitting is welded to a pipe section with the same diameter as a typical main. The weld is made in the same position as it is made in the field. The weld is unacceptable if it shows a serious undercutting or if it has rolled edges. The weld is tested by attempting to break the fitting off the run pipe. The weld is unacceptable if it breaks and shows incomplete fusion, overlap, or poor penetration at the junction of the fitting and run pipe.

III. Periodic Tests for Welders of Small Service Lines.

Two samples of the welder's work, each about 8 inches (203 millimeters) long with the weld located approximately in the center, are cut from steel service line and tested as follows:

(1) One sample is centered in a guided bend testing machine and bent to the contour of the die for a distance of 2 inches (51 millimeters) on each side of the weld. If the sample shows any breaks or cracks after removal from the bending machine, it is unacceptable.

(2) The ends of the second sample are flattened and the entire joint subjected to a tensile strength test. If failure occurs adjacent to or in the weld metal, the weld is unacceptable. If a tensile strength testing machine is not available, this sample must also pass the bending test prescribed in Subparagraph (1) of this paragraph.

APPENDIX D-CRITERIA FOR CATHODIC PROTECTION AND DETERMINATION OF MEASUREMENTS

I. Criteria for Cathodic Protection.

A. Steel, cast iron, and ductile iron structures.

(1) A negative (cathodic) voltage of at least 0.85 volt, with reference to a saturated copper-copper sulfate half cell. Determination of this voltage must be made with the protective current applied, and in accordance with Sections II and IV of this appendix.

(2) A negative (cathodic) voltage shift of at least 300 millivolts. Determination of this voltage shift must be made with the protective current applied, and in accordance with Sections II and IV of this appendix. This criterion of voltage shift applies to structures not in contact with metal of different anodic potentials.

(3) A minimum negative (cathodic) polarization voltage shift of 100 millivolts. This polarization voltage shift must be determined in accordance with Sections III and IV of this appendix.

(4) A voltage at least as negative (cathodic) as that originally established at the beginning of the Tafel segment of the E-log-I curve. This voltage must be measured in accordance with Section IV of this appendix.

(5) A net protective current from the electrolyte into the structure surface as measured by an earth current technique applied at predetermined current discharge (anodic) points of the structure.

B. Aluminum structures.

(1) Except as provided in Subparagraphs (3) and (4) of this paragraph, a minimum negative (cathodic) voltage shift of 150 millivolts, produced by the application of protective current. The voltage shift must be determined in accordance with Sections II and IV of this appendix.

(2) Except as provided in Subparagraphs (3) and (4) of this paragraph, a minimum negative (cathodic) polarization voltage shift of 100 millivolts. This polarization voltage shift must be determined in accordance with Sections III and IV of this appendix.

(3) Notwithstanding the alternative minimum criteria in Subparagraphs (1) and (2) of this paragraph, aluminum, if cathodically protected at voltages in excess of 1.20 volts as measured with reference to a copper-copper sulfate half cell, in accordance with Section IV of this appendix, and compensated for the voltage (IR) drops other than those across the structure-electrolyte boundary, may suffer corrosion resulting from the buildup of alkali on the metal surface. A voltage in excess of 1.20 volts may not be used unless previous test results indicate no appreciable corrosion will occur in the particular environment.

(4) Since aluminum may suffer from corrosion under high pH conditions, and since application of cathodic protection tends to increase the pH at the metal surface, careful investigation or testing must be made before applying cathodic protection to stop pitting attack on aluminum structures in environments with a natural pH in excess of 8.

C. Copper structures. A minimum negative (cathodic) polarization voltage shift of 100 millivolts. This polarization voltage shift must be determined in accordance with Sections III and IV of this appendix.

D. Metals of different anodic potentials. A negative (cathodic) voltage, measured in accordance with Section IV of this appendix, equal to that required for the most anodic metal in the system must be maintained. If amphoteric structures are involved that could be damaged by high alkalinity covered by Subparagraphs (3) and (4) of Paragraph B of this section, they must be electrically isolated with insulating flanges, or the equivalent.

II. Interpretation of Voltage Measurement. Voltage (IR) drops other than those across the structure-electrolyte boundary must be considered for valid interpretation of the voltage measurement in Paragraphs A(1) and (2) and Paragraph B(1) of Section I of this appendix.

III. Determination of Polarization Voltage Shift. The polarization voltage shift must be determined by interrupting the protective current and measuring the polarization decay. When the current is initially interrupted, an immediate voltage shift occurs. The voltage reading after the immediate shift must be used as the base reading from which to measure polarization decay in Paragraphs A(3), B(2), and C of Section I of this appendix.

IV. Reference Half Cells.

A. Except as provided in Paragraphs B and C of this section, negative (cathodic) voltage must be measured between the structure surface and a saturated copper-copper sulfate half cell contacting the electrolyte.

B. Other standard reference half cells may be substituted for the saturated copper-copper sulfate half cell. Two commonly used reference half cells are listed below along with their voltage equivalent to -0.85 volt as referred to a saturated copper- copper sulfate half cell:

(1) Saturated KCl calomel half cell: -0.78 volt.

(2) Silver-silver chloride half cell used in sea water: -0.80 volt.

C. In addition to the standard reference half cells, an alternate metallic material or structure may be used in place of the saturated copper sulfate half cell if its potential stability is assured and if its voltage equivalent referred to a saturated copper-copper sulfate half cell is established.

APPENDIX E - TO PART 192 - GUIDANCE ON DETERMINING HIGH CONSEQUENCE AREAS AND ON CARRYING OUT REQUIREMENTS IN THE

INTEGRITY MANAGEMENT RULE

I. Guidance on Determining a High Consequence Area

To determine which segments of an operator's transmission pipeline system are covered for purposes of the integrity management program requirements, an operator must identify the high consequence areas. An operator must use method (a) or (b) from the definition in §192.903 to identify a high consequence area. An operator may apply one method to its entire pipeline system, or an operator may apply one method to individual portions of the pipeline system. (Refer to figure E.I.A for a diagram of a high consequence area).

(a) If an operator selects method (a), then:

(1) All pipeline in class 3 and class 4 locations is considered to be in a high consequence area.

(2) The operator is to calculate potential impact circles, as defined in §192.903, centered on the centerline of the pipeline for:

(i) any areas of its pipeline system that are not in class 3 or class 4 locations which could include an identified site as defined in §192.903, and

(ii) any pipeline in class 3 and class 4 locations for which the potential impact radius would be greater than 660 feet (200 meters) and for which an identified site may exist in the area more than 660 feet (200 meters) but less than the potential impact radius from the pipeline.

(3) The operator is to evaluate the potential impact circles to determine if they contain identified sites, as defined in §192.903, in accordance with paragraph (c) of the same section.

(4) The operator is to complete identification of high consequence areas by December 17, 2004. (b) If an operator selects method (b) then:

(1) The operator is to calculate potential impact circles, as defined in §192.903, centered on the centerline of the pipeline for all areas of its pipeline where the circles could contain 20 buildings intended for human occupancy or an identified site.

(2) The operator is to evaluate the potential impact circles to determine if they contain 20 buildings intended for human occupancy. Each separate dwelling unit in a multiple dwelling unit building is counted as a separate building intended for human occupancy.

(i) If the radius of the potential impact circle is greater than 660 feet (200 meters), the operator may identify a high consequence area based on a prorated number of buildings intended for human occupancy until December 17, 2006. If an operator chooses this approach, the operator must prorate the number of buildings intended for human occupancy based on the ratio of an area with a radius of 660 feet (200 meters) to the area of the potential impact circle (i.e., the prorated number of buildings intended for human occupancy is equal to [20 x (660 feet [or 200 meters ]/ potential impact radius in feet [or meters])² ]).

(3) The operator is to evaluate the potential impact circles to determine if they contain identified sites, as defined in §192.903, in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.

(4) The operator is to complete identification of high consequence areas by December 17, 2004.

(c) Operators are to identify sites meeting the criteria of identified sites, as defined in §192.903. The process for identification is in §192.905. Further guidance was provided in (68 FR 42456; July 17, 2003) titled issuance of advisory bulletin. Operators must document, and retain for review during inspections, their rationale for selecting the source(s) used, including why it/they are appropriate for use.

(d) Requirements for incorporating newly-identified high consequence areas into an integrity management program are in §192.905.

Determining High Consequence Area

Click here to view image

Figure E.I.A

II. Guidance on Assessment Methods and Additional Preventive and Mitigative Measures for Transmission Pipelines

(a) Table E.II.1 gives guidance to help an operator implement requirements on additional preventive and mitigative measures for addressing time dependent and independent threats for a transmission pipeline operating below 30% SMYS not in an HCA (i.e. outside of potential impact circle) but located within a Class 3 or Class 4 Location.

(b) Table E.II.2 gives guidance to help an operator implement requirements on assessment methods for addressing time dependent and independent threats for a transmission pipeline in an HCA.

(c) Table E.II.3 gives guidance on preventative & mitigative measures addressing time dependent and independent threats for transmission pipelines that operate below 30% SMYS, in HCAs.

Table E.II.1

Preventive and Mitigative Measures for Transmission Pipelines Operating Below 30% SMYS not

in an HCA but in a Class 3 or Class 4 Location

(Column 1) Threat	Existing 192 Requirements		(Column 4) Additional(to 192 requirements)Assessments
	(Column 2) Primary	(Column 3) Secondary
External Corrosion	455-(Gen. Post 1971), 457-(Gen. Pre-1971) 459-(Examination), 461-(Ext. coating) 463-(CP), 465-(Monitoring) 467-(Elect isolation), 469-Test stations) 471-(Test leads), 473-(Interference) 479-(Atmospheric), 481-(Atmospheric) 485-(Remedial), 705-(Patrol) 706-(Leak survey), 711 (Repair - gen.) 717-(Repair - perm.)	603-(Gen Oper'n) 613-(Surveillance)	For Cathodically Protected Transmission Pipeline: . Perform semi-annual leak surveys. For Unprotected Transmission Pipelines or for Cathodically Protected Pipe where Electrical Surveys are Impractical: . Perform quarterly leak surveys
Internal Corrosion	475-(Gen IC), 477-(IC monitoring) 485-(Remedial), 705-(Patrol) 706-(Leak survey), 711 (Repair - gen.) 717-(Repair - perm.)	53(a)-(Materials) 603-(Gen Oper'n) 613-(Surveillance)	. Perform semi-annual leak surveys.
3rd Party Damage	103-(Gen. Design), 111-(Design factor) 317-(Hazard prot), 327-(Cover) 614-(Dam. Prevent), 616-(Public education) 705-(Patrol), 707-(Line markers) 711 (Repair - gen.), 717-(Repair - perm.)	615-(Emerg. Plan)	. Participation in state one-call system, .Use of qualified operator employees and contractors to perform marking and locating of buried structures and in direct supervision of excavation work, AND .Either monitoring of excavations near operator's transmission pipelines, or bi-monthly patrol of transmission pipelines in class 3 and 4 locations. Any indications of unreported construction activity would require a follow up investigation to determine if mechanical damage occurred.

Table E.II.2 Assessment Requirements for Transmission Pipelines in HCAs (Re-assessment intervals are maximum allowed)

Re-Assessment Requirements (see Note 3)

	At or above 50% SMYS		At or above 30% SMYS up to 50% SMYS		Below 30% SMYS
Baseline Assessment Method (see Note 3)	Max Re-Assessment Interval	Assessment Method	Max Re-Assessment Interval	Assessment Method	Max Re-Assessment Interval	Assessment Method
Pressure Testing	7	CDA	7	CDA	Ongoing	Preventative & Mitigative (P&M) Measures (see Table E.II.3), (see Note 2)
	10	Pressure Test or ILI or DA
		Repeat inspection cycle every 10 years	15(see Note 1)	Pressure Test or ILI or DA (see Note 1)
				Repeat inspection cycle every 15 years	20	Pressure Test or ILI or DA
						Repeat inspection cycle every 20 years
In-Line Inspection	7	CDA	7	CDA	Ongoing	Preventative & Mitigative (P&M) Measures (see Table E.II.3), (see Note 2)
	10	ILI or DA or Pressure Test
		Repeat inspection cycle every 10 years	15(see Note 1)	ILI or DA or Pressure Test (see Note 1)
				Repeat inspection cycle every 15 years	20	ILI or DA or Pressure Test
						Repeat inspection cycle every 20 years
Direct Assessment	7	CDA	7	CDA	Ongoing	Preventative & Mitigative (P&M) Measures (see Table E.II.3), (see Note 2)
	10	DA or ILI or Pressure Test
		Repeat inspection cycle every 10 years	15(see Note 1)	DA or ILI or Pressure Test (see Note 1)
				Repeat inspection cycle every 15 years	20	DA or ILI or Pressure Test
						Repeat inspection cycle every 20 years
Note 1:	Operator may choose to utilize CDA at year 14, then utilize ILI, Pressure Test, or DA at year 15 as allowed under ASME B31.8S
Note 2:	Operator may choose to utilize CDA at year 7 and 14 in lieu of P&M
Note 3:	Operator may utilize "other technology that an operator demonstrates can provide an equivalent understanding of the condition of line pipe"

Table E.II.3 Preventative & Mitigative Measures addressing Time Dependent and Independent Threats for

Transmission Pipelines that Operate Below 30% SMYS , in HCAs

Threat	Existing 192 R	equirements	Additional (to 192 requirements) Preventive & Mitigative Measures
	Primary	Secondary
External Corrosion	455-(Gen. Post 1971) 457-(Gen. Pre-1971) 459-(Examination) 461-(Ext. coating) 463-(CP) 465-(Monitoring) 467-(Elect isolation)	603-(Gen Oper) 613-(Surveil)	For Cathodically Protected Trmn. Pipelines . Perform an electrical survey (i.e. indirect examination tool/method) at least every 7 years. Results are to be utilized as part of an overall evaluation of the CP system and corrosion threat for the covered segment. Evaluation shall include consideration of leak repair and inspection records, corrosion monitoring records, exposed pipe inspection records, and the pipeline environment.
External Corrosion	469-Test stations) 471-(Test leads) 473-(Interference) 479-(Atmospheric) 481-(Atmospheric) 485-(Remedial) 705-(Patrol) 706-(Leak survey) 711 (Repair - gen.) 717-(Repair - perm.)		For Unprotected Trmn. Pipelines or for Cathodically Protected Pipe where Electrical Surveys are Impracticable . Conduct quarterly leak surveys AND Every 1-1/2 years, determine areas of active corrosion by evaluation of leak repair and inspection records, corrosion monitoring records, exposed pipe inspection records, and the pipeline environment.
Internal Corrosion	475-(Gen IC) 477-(IC monitoring) 485-(Remedial) 705-(Patrol) 706-(Leak survey) 711 (Repair - gen.) 717-(Repair - perm.)	53(a)-(Materials) 603-(Gen Oper) 613-(Surveil)	Obtain and review gas analysis data each calendar year for corrosive agents from transmission pipelines in HCAs, Periodic testing of fluid removed from pipelines. Specifically, once each calendar year from each storage field that may affect transmission pipelines in HCAs, AND At least every 7 years, integrate data obtained with applicable internal corrosion leak records, incident reports, safety related condition reports, repair records, patrol records, exposed pipe reports, and test records.
3rd Party Damage	103-(Gen. Design) 111-(Design factor) 317-(Hazard prot) 327-(Cover) 614-(Dam. Prevent) 616-(Public educat) 705-(Patrol) 707-(Line markers) 711 (Repair - gen.) 717-(Repair - perm.)	615 -(Emerg Plan)	. Participation in state one-call system, Use of qualified operator employees and contractors to perform marking and locating of buried structures and in direct supervision of excavation work, AND Either monitoring of excavations near operator's transmission pipelines, or bi-monthly patrol of transmission pipelines in HCAs or class 3 and 4 locations. Any indications of unreported construction activity would require a follow up investigation to determine if mechanical damage occurred.

PART 199 -DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING

SUBPART A -General

199.1 Scope and Compliance.

(a) This part requires operators of pipeline facilities subject to part 192, 193, or 195 of this chapter to test covered employees for the presence of prohibited drugs and alcohol.

199.2 Applicability.

(a) This part applies to pipeline operators only with respect to employees located within the territory of the United States, including those employees located within the limits of the "Outer Continental Shelf" as that term is defined in the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act ( 43 U.S.C. 1331 ).

(b) This part does not apply to any person for whom compliance with this part would violate the domestic laws or policies of another country.

(c) This part does not apply to covered functions performed on-

(1) Master meter systems, as defined in §191.3 of this chapter; or

(2) Pipeline systems that transport only petroleum gas or petroleum gas/air mixtures.

199.3 Definitions.

As used in this part-

"Accident" means an incident reportable under Part 191 involving gas pipeline facilities or LNG facilities.

"Administrator" means the Administrator, Research and Special Programs Administration or his or her delegate.

"Covered employee, employee, or individual to be tested" means a person who performs a covered function, including persons employed by operators, contractors engaged by operators, and persons employed by such contractors.

"Covered function" means an operations, maintenance, or emergency-response function regulated by part 192, 193, or 195 of this chapter that is performed on a pipeline or on an LNG facility.

"DOT Procedures" means the Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs published by the Office of the Secretary of Transportation in part 40 of this title.

"Fail a drug test" means that the confirmation test result shows positive evidence of the presence under DOT Procedures of a prohibited drug in an employee's system.

"Operator" means a person who owns or operates pipeline facilities subject to Part 192.

"Pass a drug test" means that initial testing or confirmation testing under DOT Procedures does not show evidence of the presence of a prohibited drug in a person's system.

"Performs a covered function" includes actually performing, ready to perform, or immediately available to perform a covered function.

"Positive rate for random drug testing" means the number of verified positive results for random drug tests conducted under this part plus the number of refusals of random drug tests required by this part, divided by the total number of random drug tests results (i.e., positives, negatives, and refusals) under this part.

"Prohibited drug" means any of the following substances specified in Schedule I or Schedule II of the Controlled Substances Act ( 21 U.S.C. 812 ): marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and phencyclidine (PCP).

"Refuse to submit, refuse, or refuse to take" means behavior consistent with DOT Procedures concerning refusal to take a drug test or refusal to take an alcohol test.

"State agency" means an agency of any of the several states, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico that participates under the pipeline safety laws ( 49 U.S.C. 60101 et seq.).

199.5 DOT Procedures.

The anti-drug and alcohol programs required by this part must be conducted according to the requirements of this part and DOT Procedures. Terms and concepts used in this part have the same meaning as in DOT Procedures. Violations of DOT Procedures with respect to anti-drug and alcohol programs required by this part are violations of this part.

199.7 Stand-down waivers.

(a) Each operator who seeks a waiver under §40.21 of this title from the stand-down restriction must submit an application for waiver in duplicate to the Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety, Research and Special Programs Administration, Department of Transportation, Washington, DC 20590.

(b) Each application must-

(1) Identify §40.21 of this title as the rule from which the waiver is sought;

(2) Explain why the waiver is requested and describe the employees to be covered by the waiver;

(3) Contain the information required by §40.21 of this title and any other information or arguments available to support the waiver requested; and

(4) Unless good cause is shown in the application, be submitted at least 60 days before the proposed effective date of the waiver.

(c) No public hearing or other proceeding is held directly on an application before its disposition under this section. If the Associate Administrator determines that the application contains adequate justification, he or she grants the waiver. If the Associate Administrator determines that the application does not justify granting the waiver, he or she denies the application. The Associate Administrator notifies each applicant of the decision to grant or deny an application.

199.9 Preemption of State and local laws.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, this subpart preempts any State or local law, rule, regulation, or order to the extent that:

(1) Compliance with both the State or local requirement and this subpart is not possible;

(2) Compliance with the State or local requirement is an obstacle to the accomplishment and execution of any requirement in this subpart; or

(3) The State or local requirement is a pipeline safety standard applicable to interstate pipeline facilities.

(b) This subpart shall not be construed to preempt provisions of State criminal law that impose sanctions for reckless conduct leading to actual loss of life, injury, or damage to property, whether the provisions apply specifically to transportation employees or employers or to the general public.

SUBPART B - DRUG TESTING

199.100 Purpose.

The purpose of this subpart is to establish programs designed to help prevent accidents and injuries resulting from the use of prohibited drugs by employees who perform covered functions for operators of certain pipeline facilities subject to part 192, 193, or 195 of this chapter.

199.101 Anti-Drug Plan.

(a) Each operator shall maintain and follow a written anti-drug plan that conforms to the requirements of this subpart and the DOT Procedures. The plan must contain:

(1) Methods and procedures for compliance with all the requirements of this subpart, including the employee assistance program;

(2) The name and address of each laboratory that analyzes the specimens collected for drug testing;

(3) The name and address of the operator's Medical Review Officer, and Substance Abuse Professional; and

(4) Procedures for notifying employees of the coverage and provisions of the plan.

(b) The Administrator or the State Agency that has submitted a current certification under the pipeline safety law ( 49 U.S.C. 60101 et seq.) with respect to the pipeline facility governed by an operator's plans and procedures may, after notice and opportunity for hearing as provided in 49 CFR 190.237 or the relevant State procedures, require the operator to amend its plans and procedures as necessary to provide a reasonable level of safety.

199.103 Use of Persons Who Fail or Refuse a Drug Test.

(a) An operator may not knowingly use as an employee any person who:

(1) Fails a drug test required by this subpart and the medical review officer makes a determination under "DOT Procedures"; or

(2) Refuses to take a drug test required by this subpart.

(b) Paragraph (a)(1) of this section does not apply to a person who has:

(1) Passed a drug test under DOT Procedures;

(2) Been considered by the medical review officer in accordance with DOT Procedures and been determined by a substance abuse professional to have successfully completed required education or treatment; and

(3) Not failed a drug test required by this subpart after returning to duty.

199.105 Drug Tests Required.

Each operator shall conduct the following drug tests for the presence of a prohibited drug:

(a) Pre-employment testing. No operator may hire or contract for the use of any person as an employee unless that person passes a drug test or is covered by an anti-drug program that conforms to the requirements of this subpart.

(b) Post-accident testing. As soon as possible but no later than 32 hours after an accident, an operator shall drug test each employee whose performance either contributed to the accident or cannot be completely discounted as a contributing factor to the accident. An operator may decide not to test under this paragraph but such a decision must be based on the best information available immediately after the accident that the employee's performance could not have contributed to the accident or that, because of the time between that performance and the accident, it is not likely that a drug test would reveal whether the performance was affected by drug use.

(c) Random testing.

(1) Except as provided in Paragraphs (c)(2) through (4) of this section, the minimum annual percentage rate for random drug testing shall be 50 percent of covered employees.

(2) The Administrator's decision to increase or decrease the minimum annual percentage rate for random drug testing is based on the reported positive rate for the entire industry. All information used for this determination is drawn from the drug MIS reports required by this subpart. In order to ensure reliability of the data, the Administrator considers the quality and completeness of the reported data, may obtain additional information or reports from operators, and may make appropriate modifications in calculating the industry positive rate. Each year, the Administrator will publish in the Federal Register the minimum annual percentage rate for random drug testing of covered employees. The new minimum annual percentage rate for random drug testing will be applicable starting January 1 of the calendar year following publication.

(3) When the minimum annual percentage rate for random drug testing is 50 percent, the Administrator may lower this rate to 25 percent of all covered employees if the Administrator determines that the data received under the reporting requirements of Paragraph 199.119 for two consecutive calendar years indicate that the reported positive rate is less than 1.0 percent.

(4) When the minimum annual percentage rate for random drug testing is 25 percent, and the data received under the reporting requirements of Paragraph 199.119 for any calendar year indicate that the reported positive rate is equal to or greater than 1.0 percent, the Administrator will increase the minimum annual percentage rate for random drug testing to 50 percent of all covered employees.

(5) The selection of employees for random drug testing shall be made by a scientifically valid method, such as a random number table or a computer-based random number generator that is matched with employees' Social Security numbers, payroll identification numbers, or other comparable identifying numbers. Under the selection process used, each covered employee shall have an equal chance of being tested each time selections are made.

(6) The operator shall randomly select a sufficient number of covered employees for testing during each calendar year to equal an annual percentage rate not less than the minimum annual percentage rate for random drug testing determined by the Administrator. If the operator conducts random drug testing through a consortium, the number of employees to be tested may be calculated for each individual operator or may be based on the total number of covered employees covered by the consortium who are subject to random drug testing at the same minimum annual percentage rate under this subpart or any DOT drug testing rule.

(7) Each operator shall ensure that random drug tests conducted under this subpart are unannounced and that the dates for administering random tests are spread reasonably throughout the calendar year.

(8) If a given covered employee is subject to random drug testing under the drug testing rules of more than one DOT agency for the same operator, the employee shall be subject to random drug testing at the percentage rate established for the calendar year by the DOT agency regulating more than 50 percent of the employee's function.

(9) If an operator is required to conduct random drug testing under the drug testing rules of more than one DOT agency, the operator may-

(I) Establish separate pools for random selection, with each pool containing the covered employees who are subject to testing at the same required rate; or

(ii) Randomly select such employees for testing at the highest percentage rate established for the calendar year by any DOT agency to which the operator is subject.

(d) Testing based on reasonable cause. Each operator shall drug test each employee when there is reasonable cause to believe the employee is using a prohibited drug. The decision to test must be based on a reasonable and articulable belief that the employee is using a prohibited drug on the basis of specific, contemporaneous physical, behavioral, or performance indicators of probable drug use. At least two of the employee's supervisors, one of whom is trained in detection of the possible symptoms of drug use, shall substantiate and concur in the decision to test an employee. The concurrence between the two supervisors may be by telephone. However, in the case of operators with 50 or fewer employees subject to testing under this subpart, only one supervisor of the employee trained in detecting possible drug use symptoms shall substantiate the decision to test.

(e) Return-to-duty testing. A covered employee who refuses to take or has a positive drug test may not return to duty in the covered function until the covered employee has complied with applicable provisions of DOT Procedures concerning substance abuse professionals and the return-to-duty process.

(f) Follow-up testing. A covered employee who refuses to take or has a positive drug test shall be subject to unannounced follow-up drug tests administered by the operator following the covered employee's return to duty. The number and frequency of such follow-up testing shall be determined by a substance abuse professional, but shall consist of at least six tests in the first 12 months following the covered employee's return to duty. In addition, follow-up testing may include testing for alcohol as directed by the substance abuse professional, to be performed in accordance with 49 CFR 40. Follow-up testing shall not exceed 60 months from the date of the covered employee''s return to duty. The substance abuse professional may terminate the requirement for follow-up testing at any time after the first six tests have been administered, if the substances abuse professional determines that such testing is no longer necessary.

199.107 Drug Testing Laboratory.

(a) Each operator shall use for the drug testing required by this subpart only drug testing laboratories certified by the Department of Health and Human Services under the DOT Procedures.

(b) The drug testing laboratory must permit:

(1) I nspections by the operator before the laboratory is awarded a testing contract; and

(2) Unannounced inspections, including examination of records, at any time, by the operator, the Administrator, and if the operator is subject to state agency jurisdiction, a representative of that state agency.

199.109 Review of Drug Testing Results.

(a) MRO appointment. Each operator shall designate or appoint a medical review officer (MRO). I f an operator does not have a qualified individual on staff to serve as MRO, the operator may contract for the provision of MRO services as part of its anti-drug program.

(b) MRO qualifications. Each MRO must be a licensed physician who has the qualifications required by DOT Procedures.

(c) MRO duties. The MRO must perform functions for the operator as required by DOT Procedures.

(d) MRO reports. The MRO must report all drug test results to the operator in accordance with DOT Procedures.

(e) Evaluation and rehabilitation may be provided by the operator, by a substance abuse professional under contract with the operator, or by a substance abuse professional not affiliated with the operator. The choice of substance abuse professional and assignment of costs shall be made in accordance with the operator/employee policies.

(f) The operator shall ensure that a substance abuse professional, who determines that a covered employee requires assistance in resolving problems with drug abuse, does not refer the covered employee to the substance abuse professional's private practice or to a person or organization from which the substance abuse professional receives remuneration or in which the substance abuse professional has a financial interest. This paragraph does not prohibit a substance abuse professional from referring a covered employee for assistance provided through:

(1) A public agency, such as a State, county, or municipality;

(2) The operator or a person under contract to provide treatment for drug problems on behalf of the operator;

(3) The sole source of therapeutically appropriate treatment under the employee's health insurance program; or

(4) The sole source of therapeutically appropriate treatment reasonably accessible to the employee.

§199.111 Retention of Samples and Additional Testing.

(a) Samples that yield positive results on confirmation must be retained by the laboratory in properly secured, long-term, frozen storage for at least 365 days as required by the DOT Procedures. Within this 365-day period, the employee or the employee's representative, the operator, the Administrator, or, if the operator is subject to the jurisdiction of a state agency, the state agency may request that the laboratory retain the sample for an additional period. I f, within the 365-day period, the laboratory has not received a proper written request to retain the sample for a further reasonable period specified in the request, the sample may be discarded following the end of the 365-day period.

(b) I f the medical review officer (MRO) determines there is no legitimate medical explanation for a confirmed positive test result other than the unauthorized use of a prohibited drug, and if timely additional testing is requested by the employee according to DOT Procedures, the split specimen must be tested. The employee may specify testing by the original laboratory or by a second laboratory that is certified by the Department of Health and Human Services. The operator may require the employee to pay in advance the cost of shipment (if any) and reanalysis of the sample, but the employee must be reimbursed for such expense if the additional test is negative.

(c) I f the employee specifies testing by a second laboratory, the original laboratory must follow approved chain-of-custody procedures in transferring a portion of the sample.

(d) Since some analytes may deteriorate during storage, detected levels of the drug below the detection limits established in the DOT Procedures, but equal to or greater than the established sensitivity of the assay, must, as technically appropriate, be reported and considered corroborative of the original positive results.

199.113 Employee Assistance Program.

(a) Each operator shall provide an employee assistance program (EAP) for its employees and supervisory personnel who will determine whether an employee must be drug tested based on reasonable cause. The operator may establish the EAP as a part of its internal personnel services or the operator may contract with an entity that provides EAP services. Each EAP must include education and training on drug use. At the discretion of the operator, the EAP may include an opportunity for employee rehabilitation.

(b) Education under each EAP must include at least the following elements: display and distribution of informational material; display and distribution of a community service hot-line telephone number for employee assistance; and display and distribution of the employer's policy regarding the use of prohibited drugs.

(c) Training under each EAP for supervisory personnel who will determine whether an employee must be drug tested based on reasonable cause must include one 60-minute period of training on the specific, contemporaneous physical, behavioral, and performance indicators of probable drug use.

199.115 Contractor Employees.

With respect to those employees who are contractors or employed by a contractor, an operator may provide by contract that the drug testing, education, and training required by this subpart be carried out by the contractor provided:

(a) The operator remains responsible for ensuring that the requirements of this subpart are complied with; and

(b) The contractor allows access to property and records by the operator, the Administrator, and if the operator is subject to the jurisdiction of a state agency, a representative of the state agency for the purpose of monitoring the operator's compliance with the requirements of this subpart.

199.117 Record Keeping.

(a) Each operator shall keep the following records for the periods specified and permit access to the records as provided by paragraph (b) of this section:

(1) Records that demonstrate the collection process conforms to this subpart must be kept for at least 3 years.

(2) Records of employee drug test that indicate a verified positive result, records that demonstrate compliance with the recommendations of a substance abuse professional, and MI S annual report data shall be maintained for a minimum of five years.

(3) Records of employee drug test results that show employees passed a drug test must be kept for at least 1 year.

(4) Records confirming that supervisors and employees have been trained as required by this part must be kept for at least 3 years.

(b) I nformation regarding an individual's drug testing results or rehabilitation must be released upon the written consent of the individual and as provided by DOT Procedures.

199.119 Reporting of Anti-Drug Testing Results

(a) Each large operator (having more than 50 covered employees) shall submit an annual MI S report to RSPA of its anti-drug testing using the Management I nformation System (MI S) form and instructions as required by 49 CFR Part 40 (at § 40.25 and appendix H to Part 40), not later than March 15 of each year for the prior calendar year (January 1 through December 31). The Administrator shall require by written notice that small operators (50 or fewer covered employees) not otherwise required to submit annual MIS reports to prepare and submit such reports to RSPA.

(b) Each report, required under this section, shall be submitted to the Office of Pipeline Safety Compliance (OPS), Research and Special Programs Administration, Department of Transportation, room 2103, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590. The operator may submit a paper report or data electronically using the version of the MIS form provided by DOT. This electronic version of the form can be accessed via the Internet at the following Office of Pipeline Safety web address: http://ops.dot.gov/drug.htm.

(c) To calculate the total number of covered employees eligible for random testing throughout the year, as an operator, you must add the total number of covered employees eligible for testing during each random testing period for the year and divide that total by the number of random testing periods. Covered employees, and only covered employees, are to be in an employer's random testing pool, and all covered employees must be in the random pool. If you are an employer conducting random testing more often than once per month (e.g., you select daily, weekly, bi-weekly), you do not need to compute this total number of covered employees rate more than on a once per month basis.

(d) As an employer, you may use a service agent (e.g., C/TPA) to perform random selections for you; and your covered employees may be part of a larger random testing pool of covered employees. However, you must ensure that the service agent you use is testing at the appropriate percentage established for your industry and that only covered employees are in the random testing pool.

(e) Each operator that has a covered employee who performs multi-DOT agency functions (e.g., an employee performs pipeline maintenance duties and drives a commercial motor vehicle), count the employee only on the MIS report for the DOT agency under which he or she is randomly tested. Normally, this will be the DOT agency under which the employee performs more than 50% of his or her duties. Operators may have to explain the testing data for these employees in the event of a DOT agency inspection or audit.

(f) A service agent (e.g., Consortia/Third Party Administrator as defined in 49 CFR Part 40) may prepare the MIS report on behalf of an operator. However, each report shall be certified by the operator's anti-drug manager or designated representative for accuracy and completeness.

SUBPART C -ALCOHOL MISUSE PREVENTION PROGRAM

199.200 Purpose.

The purpose of this subpart is to establish programs designed to help prevent accidents and injuries resulting from the misuse of alcohol by employees who perform covered functions for operators of certain pipeline facilities subject to part 192 of this code.

199.201 [Removed and Reserved]

199.202 Alcohol Misuse Plan.

Each operator must maintain and follow a written alcohol misuse plan that conforms to the requirements of this part and DOT Procedures concerning alcohol testing programs. The plan shall contain methods and procedures for compliance with all the requirements of this subpart, including required testing, record keeping, reporting, education and training elements.

19903, 199.205 . 2[Removed and Reserved]

199.209 Other Requirements Imposed by Operators.

(a) Except as expressly provided in this subpart, nothing in this subpart shall be construed to affect the authority of operators, or the rights of employees, with respect to the use or possession of alcohol, including authority and rights with respect to alcohol testing and rehabilitation.

(b) Operators may, but are not required to, conduct pre-employment alcohol testing under this subpart. Each operator that conducts pre-employment alcohol testing must-(1) Conduct a pre-employment alcohol test before the first performance of covered functions by every covered employee (whether a new employee or someone who has transferred to a position involving the performance of covered functions);

(2) Treat all covered employees the same for the purpose of pre-employment alcohol testing (i.e., you must not test some covered employees and not others);

(3) Conduct the pre-employment tests after making a contingent offer of employment or transfer, subject to the employee passing the pre-employment alcohol test;

(4) Conduct all pre-employment alcohol tests using the alcohol testing procedures in DOT Procedures; and

(5) Not allow any covered employee to begin performing covered functions unless the result of the employee's test indicates an alcohol concentration of less than 0.04.

199.211 Requirements for Notice.

Before performing an alcohol test under this subpart, each operator shall notify a covered employee that the alcohol test is required by this subpart. No operator shall falsely represent that a test is administered under this subpart.

199.213 [Removed and Reserved]

199.215 Alcohol Concentration.

Each operator shall prohibit a covered employee from reporting for duty or remaining on duty requiring the performance of covered functions while having an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or greater. No operator having actual knowledge that a covered employee has an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or greater shall permit the employee to perform or continue to perform covered functions.

199.217 On-duty Use.

Each operator shall prohibit a covered employee from using alcohol while performing covered functions. No operator having actual knowledge that a covered employee is using alcohol while performing covered functions shall permit the employee to perform or continue to perform covered functions.

199.219 Pre-duty Use.

Each operator shall prohibit a covered employee from using alcohol within four hours prior to performing covered functions, or, if an employee is called to duty to respond to an emergency, within the time period after the employee has been notified to report for duty. No operator having actual knowledge that a covered employee has used alcohol within four hours prior to performing covered functions or within the time period after the employee has been notified to report for duty shall permit that covered employee to perform or continue to perform covered functions.

199.221 Use following an Accident.

Each operator shall prohibit a covered employee who has actual knowledge of an accident in which his or her performance of covered functions has not been discounted by the operator as a contributing factor to the accident from using alcohol for eight hours following the accident, unless he or she has been given a post-accident test under paragraph 199.225(a), or the operator has determined that the employee's performance could not have contributed to the accident.

199.223 Refusal to Submit to a Required Alcohol Test.

Each operator shall require a covered employee to submit to a post-accident alcohol test required under paragraph 199.225(a), a reasonable suspicion alcohol test required under paragraph 199.225(b), or a follow-up alcohol test required under paragraph 199.225(d). No operator shall permit an employee who refuses to submit to such a test to perform or continue to perform covered functions.

199.225 Alcohol Tests Required.

Each operator shall conduct the following types of alcohol tests for the presence of alcohol:

(a) Post-accident.

(1) As soon as practicable following an accident, each operator shall test each surviving covered employee for alcohol if that employee's performance of a covered function either contributed to the accident or cannot be completely discounted as a con-tributing factor to the accident. The decision not to administer a test under this paragraph shall be based on the operator's determination, using the best available information at the time of the determination, that the covered employee's performance could not have contributed to the accident.

(2)

(i) If a test required by this section is not administered within two hours following the accident, the operator shall prepare and maintain on file a record stating the reasons the test was not promptly administered. If a test required by paragraph (a) is not administered within eight hours following the accident, the operator shall cease attempts to administer an alcohol test and shall state in the record the reasons for not administering the test.

(ii) Removed and reserved.

(3) A covered employee who is subject to post-accident testing who fails to remain readily available for such testing, including notifying the operator or operator representative of his/her location if he/she leaves the scene of the accident prior to submission to such test, may be deemed by the operator to have refused to submit to testing. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require the delay of necessary medical attention for injured people following an accident or to prohibit a covered employee from leaving the scene of an accident for the period necessary to obtain assistance in responding to the accident or to obtain necessary emergency medical care.

(b) Reasonable suspicion testing.

(1) Each operator shall require a covered employee to submit to an alcohol test when the operator has reasonable suspicion to believe that the employee has violated the prohibitions in this subpart.

(2) The operator's determination that reasonable suspicion exists to require the covered employee to undergo an alcohol test shall be based on specific, contemporaneous, articulable observations concerning the appearance, behavior, speech, or body odors of the employee. The required observations shall be made by a supervisor who is trained in detecting the symptoms of alcohol misuse. The supervisor who makes the determination that reasonable suspicion exists shall not conduct the breath alcohol test on that employee.

(3) Alcohol testing is authorized by this section only if the observations required by subparagraph (b)(2) of this paragraph are made during, just preceding, or just after the period of the work day that the employee is required to be in compliance with this subpart. A covered employee may be directed by the operator to undergo reasonable suspicion testing for alcohol only while the employee is performing covered functions; just before the employee is to perform covered functions; or just after the employee has ceased performing covered functions.

(4)

(i) If a test required by this paragraph is not administered within two hours following the determination under subparagraph (b)(2) of this paragraph, the operator shall prepare and maintain on file a record stating the reasons the test was not promptly administered. If a test required by this paragraph is not administered within eight hours following the determination under subparagraph (b)(2) of this paragraph, the operator shall cease attempts to administer an alcohol test and shall state in the record the reasons for not administering the test. Records shall be submitted to RSPA upon request of the Administrator.

(ii) Removed and reserved.

(iii) Notwithstanding the absence of a reasonable suspicion alcohol test under this paragraph, an operator shall not permit a covered employee to report for duty or remain on duty requiring the performance of covered functions while the employee is under the influence of or impaired by alcohol, as shown by the behavioral, speech, or performance indicators of alcohol misuse, nor shall an operator permit the covered employee to perform or continue to perform covered functions, until:

(A) An alcohol test is administered and the employee's alcohol concentration measures less than 0.02; or

(B) The start of the employee's next regularly scheduled duty period, but not less than 8 hours following the determination under subparagraph (b)(2) of this paragraph that there is reasonable suspicion to believe that the employee has violated the prohibitions in this subpart.

(iv) Except as provided in subparagraph (b)(4)(ii), no operator shall take any action under this subpart against a covered employee based solely on the employee's behavior and appearance in the absence of an alcohol test. This does not prohibit an operator with the authority independent of this subpart from taking any action otherwise consistent with law.

(c) Return-to-duty testing. Each operator shall ensure that before a covered employee returns to duty requiring the performance of a covered function after engaging in conduct prohibited by paragraphs 199.215 through 199.223, the employee shall undergo a return-to-duty alcohol test with a result indicating an alcohol concentration of less than 0.02.

(d) Follow-up testing.

(1) Following a determination under Paragraph 199.243(b) that a covered employee is in need of assistance in resolving problems associated with alcohol misuse, each operator shall ensure that the employee is subject to unannounced follow-up alcohol testing as directed by a substance abuse professional in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 199.243(c)(2)(ii).

(2) Follow-up testing shall be conducted when the covered employee is performing covered functions; just before the employee is to perform covered functions; or just after the employee has ceased performing such functions.

(e) Retesting of covered employees with an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or greater but less than 0.04. Each operator shall retest a covered employee to ensure compliance with the provisions of paragraph 199.237, if an operator chooses to permit the employee to perform a covered function within eight hours following the administration of an alcohol test indicating an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or greater but less than 0.04.

199.227 Retention of Records.

(a) General requirement. Each operator shall maintain records of its alcohol misuse prevention program as provided in this paragraph. The records shall be maintained in a secure location with controlled access.

(b) Period of retention. Each operator shall maintain the records in accordance with the following schedule:

(1) Five years. Records of employee alcohol test results with results indicating an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or greater, documentation of refusals to take required alcohol tests, calibration documentation, employee evaluation and referrals, and MIS annual report data shall be maintained for a minimum of five years.

(2) Two years. Records related to the collection process (except calibration of evidential breath testing devices), and training shall be maintained for a minimum of two years.

(3) One year. Records of all test results below 0.02 (as defined in 49 CFR Part 40) shall be maintained for a minimum of one year.

(c) Types of records. The following specific records shall be maintained:

(1) Records related to the collection process:

(i) Collection log books, if used.

(ii) Calibration documentation for evidential breath testing devices.

(iii) Documentation of breath alcohol technician training.

(iv) Documents generated in connection with decisions to administer reasonable suspicion alcohol tests.

(v) Documents generated in connection with decisions on post-accident tests.

(vi) Documents verifying existence of a medical explanation of the inability of a covered employee to provide adequate breath for testing.

(2) Records related to test results:

(i) The operator's copy of the alcohol test form, including the results of the test.

(ii) Documents related to the refusal of any covered employee to submit to an alcohol test required by this subpart.

(iii) Documents presented by a covered employee to dispute the result of an alcohol test administered under this subpart.

(3) Records related to other violations of this subpart.

(4) Records related to evaluations:

(i) Records pertaining to a determination by a substance abuse professional concerning a covered employee's need for assistance.

(ii) Records concerning a covered employee's compliance with the recommendations of the substance abuse professional.

(5) Record(s) related to the operator's MIS annual testing data.

(6) Records related to education and training:

(i) Materials on alcohol misuse awareness, including a copy of the operator's policy on alcohol misuse.

(ii) Documentation of compliance with the requirements of paragraph 199.231.

(iii) Documentation of training provided to supervisors for the purpose of qualifying the supervisors to make a determination concerning the need for alcohol testing based on reasonable suspicion.

(iv) Certification that any training conducted under this subpart complies with the requirements for such training.

199.229 Reporting of Alcohol Testing Results.

(a) Each large operator (having more than 50 covered employees) shall submit an annual MIS report to RSPA of its alcohol testing results using the Management Information System (MIS) form and instructions as required by 49 CFR Part 40 (at § 40.25 and appendix H to Part 40), not later than March 15 of each year for the previous calendar year (January 1 through December 31). The Administrator may require by written notice that small operators (50 or fewer covered employees) not otherwise required to submit annual MIS reports to prepare and submit such reports to RSPA.

(b) Each operator that has a covered employee who performs multi-DOT agency functions (e.g., an employee performs pipeline maintenance duties and drives a commercial motor vehicle), count the employee only on the MIS report for the DOT agency under which he or she is tested. Normally, this will be the DOT agency under which the employee performs more than 50% of his or her duties. Operators may have to explain the testing data for these employees in the event of a DOT agency inspection or audit.

(c) Each report, required under this section, shall be submitted to the Office of Pipeline Safety Compliance (OPS), Research and Special Programs Administration, Department of Transportation, room 2103, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590. The operator may report data electronically using the version of the MIS form provided by DOT. This form can be accessed via the Internet at the following Office of Pipeline Safety web address: http://ops.dot.gov/drug.htm.

(d) A service agent (e.g., Consortia/Third Party Administrator as defined in Part 40) may prepare the MIS report on behalf of an operator. However, each report shall be certified by the operator's anti-drug manager or designated representative for accuracy and completeness.

199.231 Access to Facilities and Records.

(a) Except as required by law or expressly authorized or required in this subpart, no employer shall release covered employee information that is contained in records required to be maintained in paragraph 199.227.

(b) A covered employee is entitled, upon written request, to obtain copies of any records pertaining to the employee's use of alcohol, including any records pertaining to his or her alcohol tests. The operator shall promptly provide the records requested by the employee. Access to an employee's records shall not be contingent upon payment for records other than those specifically requested.

(c) Each operator shall permit access to all facilities utilized in complying with the requirements of this subpart to the Secretary of Transportation, any DOT agency, or a representative of a state agency with regulatory authority over the operator.

(d) Each operator shall make available copies of all results for employer alcohol testing conducted under this subpart and any other information pertaining to the operator's alcohol misuse prevention program, when requested by the Secretary of Transportation, any DOT agency with regulatory authority over the operator, or a representative of a state agency with regulatory authority over the operator. The information shall include name-specific alcohol test results, records, and reports.

(e) When requested by the National Transportation Safety Board as part of an accident investigation, an operator shall disclose information related to the operator's administration of any post-accident alcohol tests administered following the accident under investigation.

(f) An operator shall make records available to a subsequent employer upon receipt of the written request from the covered employee. Disclosure by the subsequent employer is permitted only as expressly authorized by the terms of the employee's written request.

(g) An operator may disclose information without employee consent as provided by DOT Procedures concerning certain legal proceedings.

(h) An operator shall release information regarding a covered employee's records as directed by the specific, written consent of the employee authorizing release of the information to an identified person. Release of such information by the person receiving the information is permitted only in accordance with the terms of the employee's consent.

199.233 Removal from Covered Function.

Except as provided in paragraphs 199.239 through 199.243, no operator shall permit any covered employee to perform covered functions if the employee has engaged in conduct prohibited by paragraphs 199.215 through 199.223 or an alcohol misuse rule of another DOT agency.

199.235 Required Evaluation and Testing.

No operator shall permit a covered employee who has engaged in conduct prohibited by paragraphs 199.215 through 199.223 to perform covered functions unless the employee has met the requirements of paragraph 199.243.

199.237 Other Alcohol-related Conduct.

(a) No operator shall permit a covered employee tested under the provisions of paragraph 199.225, who is found to have an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or greater but less than 0.04, to perform or continue to perform covered functions, until:

(1) The employee's alcohol concentration measures less than 0.02 in accordance with a test administered under paragraph 199.225(e); or

(2) The start of the employee's next regularly scheduled duty period, but not less than eight hours following administration of the test.

(b) Except as provided in paragraph (a) of this section, no operator shall take any action under this subpart against an employee based solely on test results showing an alcohol concentration less than 0.04. This does not prohibit an operator with authority independent of this subpart from taking any action otherwise consistent with law.

199.239 Operator Obligation to Promulgate a Policy on the Misuse of Alcohol.

(a) General requirement. Each operator shall provide educational materials that explain these alcohol misuse requirements and the operator's policies and procedures with respect to meeting those requirements.

(1) The operator shall ensure that a copy of these materials is distributed to each covered employee prior to the start of alcohol testing under this subpart, and to each person subsequently hired for or transferred to a covered position.

(2) Each operator shall provide written notice to representatives of employee organizations of the availability of this information.

(b) Required content. The materials to be made available to covered employees shall include detailed discussion of at least the following:

(1) The identity of the person designated by the operator to answer covered employee's questions about the materials.

(2) The categories of employees who are subject to the provisions of this subpart.

(3) Sufficient information about the covered functions performed by those employees to make clear what period of the work day the covered employee is required to be in compliance with this subpart.

(4) Specific information concerning covered employee conduct that is prohibited by this subpart.

(5) The circumstances under which a covered employee will be tested for alcohol under this subpart.

(6) The procedures that will be used to test for the presence of alcohol, protect the covered employee and the integrity of the breath testing process, safeguard the validity of the test results, and ensure that those results are attributed to the correct employee.

(7) The requirement that a covered employee submit to alcohol tests administered in accordance with this subpart.

(8) An explanation of what constitutes a refusal to submit to an alcohol test and the attendant consequences.

(9) The consequences for covered employees found to have violated the prohibitions under this subpart, including the requirement that the employee be removed immediately from covered functions, and the procedures under paragraph 199.243.

(10) The consequences for covered employees found to have an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or greater but less than 0.04.

(11) Information concerning the effects of alcohol misuse on an individual's health, work, and personal life; signs and symptoms of an alcohol problem (the employee's or a coworker's); and including intervening evaluating and resolving problems associated with the misuse of alcohol including intervening when an alcohol problem is suspected, confrontation, referral to any available EAP, and/or referral to management.

(c) Optional provisions. The materials supplied to covered employees may also include information on additional operator policies with respect to the use or possession of alcohol, including any consequences for an employee found to have a specified alcohol level, that are based on the operator's authority independent of this subpart. Any such additional policies or consequences shall be clearly described as being based on independent authority.

199.241 Training for Supervisors.

Each operator shall ensure that persons designated to determine whether reasonable suspicion exists to require a covered employee to undergo alcohol testing under paragraph 199.225(b) receive at least 60 minutes of training on the physical, behavioral, speech, and performance indicators of probable alcohol misuse.

199.243 Referral, Evaluation, and Treatment.

(a) Each covered employee who has engaged in conduct prohibited by paragraphs 199.215 through 199.223 of this subpart shall be advised of the resources available to the covered employee in evaluating and resolving problems associated with the misuse of alcohol, including the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of substance abuse professionals and counseling and treatment programs.

(b) Each covered employee who engages in conduct prohibited under paragraphs 199.215 through 199.223 shall be evaluated by a substance abuse professional who shall determine what assistance, if any, the employee needs in resolving problems associated with alcohol misuse.

(c)

(1) Before a covered employee returns to duty requiring the performance of a covered function after engaging in conduct prohibited by paragraphs 199.215 through 199.223 of this subpart, the employee shall undergo a return-to-duty alcohol test with a result indicating an alcohol concentration of less than 0.02.

(2) In addition, each covered employee identified as needing assistance in resolving problems associated with alcohol misuse:

(i) shall be evaluated by a substance abuse professional to determine that the employee has properly followed any rehabilitation program prescribed under paragraph (b) of this section.

(ii) shall be subject to unannounced follow-up alcohol tests administered by the operator following the employee's return to duty. The number and frequency of such follow-up testing shall be determined by a substance abuse professional, but shall consist of at least six tests in the first 12 months following the employee's return to duty. In addition, follow-up testing may include testing for drugs, as directed by the substance abuse professional, to be performed in accordance with 49 CFR Part 40. Follow-up testing shall not exceed 60 months from the date of the employee's return to duty. The substance abuse professional may terminate the requirement for follow-up testing at any time after the first six tests have been administered, if the substance abuse professional determines that such testing is no longer necessary.

(d) Evaluation and rehabilitation may be provided by the operator, by a substance abuse professional under contract with the operator, or by a substance abuse professional not affiliated with the operator. The choice of substance abuse professional and assignment of costs shall be made in accordance with the operator/employee agreements and operator/employee policies.

(e) The operator shall ensure that a substance abuse professional who determines that a covered employee requires assistance in resolving problems with alcohol misuse does not refer the employee to the substance abuse professional's private practice or to a person or organization from which the substance abuse professional receives remuneration or in which the substance abuse professional has a financial interest. This paragraph does not prohibit a substance abuse professional from referring an employee for assistance provided through:

(1) a public agency, such as a State, county, or municipality;

(2) the operator or a person under contract to provide treatment for alcohol problems on behalf of the operator;

(3) the sole source of therapeutically appropriate treatment under the employee's health insurance program; or

(4) the sole source of therapeutically appropriate treatment reasonably accessible to the employee.

199.245 Contractor Employees.

(a) With respect to those covered employees who are contractors or employed by a contractor, an operator may provide by contract that the alcohol testing, training and education required by this subpart be carried out by the contractor provided:

(b) The operator remains responsible for ensuring that the requirements of this subpart and 49 CFR Part 40 are complied with; and

(c) The contractor allows access to property and records by the operator, the Administrator, any DOT agency with regulatory authority over the operator or covered employee, and if the operator is subject to the jurisdiction of a state agency, a representative of the state agency for the purposes of monitoring the operator's compliance with the requirements of this subpart and 49 CFR Part 40.

Notes

126.03.04 Ark. Code R. § 002

9/24/2004