API Supports New Gas and Liquid Pipeline Safety Rule Update for PHMSA

WASHINGTON, October 1, 2019—The American Petroleum Institute (API) released the below statement in support of Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s (PHMSA’s) updated natural gas and liquid pipeline transmission safety regulations.

“We’re pleased that PHMSA has updated their regulations so that natural gas and liquid pipeline operators are able to facilitate the use of new technologies and processes that will help to keep their operations safe for employees, surrounding communities and the environment. These regulations are an important step in advancing safety, and we strongly encourage PHMSA to continue to pursue additional rulemaking that provides liquid pipeline operators the flexibility to use fit-for-purpose repair criteria based on data and sound engineering principles,” said Vice President of Midstream and Industry Operations Robin Rorick. “Pipelines are the safest and most environmentally friendly ways to deliver the energy Americans use every day, and these rules will help ensure our nation’s energy infrastructure remains safe.”

PHMSA continues to place a great deal of importance on the use of technology as a “transformative” tool to advance the oil and natural gas pipeline industry’s safety performance. These rules are reflective of that commitment and provide a foundation upon which PHMSA can better promote the use of modern pipeline inspection technologies. The rules were reviewed and finalized through the Pipeline Safety Advisory Committee process, a transparent and balanced forum including members from Government, the public and industry, that has demonstrated the ability to build consensus around complex regulatory issues.

API represents all segments of America’s oil and natural gas industry. Our more than 600 members produce, process and distribute most of the nation’s energy. The industry supports more than ten million U.S. jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of millions of Americans. API was formed in 1919 as a standards-setting organization. In our first 100 years, API has developed more than 700 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency and sustainability.