Pipeline Safety: Timeframe to Make Rupture-Mitigation Valves Operational

The National Association of Pipeline Safety Representatives (NAPSR), an organization of state agency pipeline safety managers, supports the proposed rule to extend the timeframe for making rupture-mitigation valves operational from 14 to 90 days. They argue that the current 14-day window is too narrow for proper installation and testing, and that a 90-day period allows for necessary logistical steps without compromising safety.

Southwest Gas Corporation, a natural gas local distribution company, supports the proposed rule to extend the timeframe for making rupture mitigation valves (RMVs) operational from 14 days to 90 days. They also endorse the comments submitted by the American Gas Association regarding the revision of these requirements.

The Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA) supports the proposal to extend the timeframe for making rupture-mitigation valves (RMVs) operational from 14 to 90 days. They argue that the current timeframe is difficult for operators to meet due to construction and technical complexities, and that the extension reduces regulatory burden without compromising safety.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) and the Liquid Energy Pipeline Association (LEPA) support the proposed rule to extend the timeframe for making rupture-mitigation valves (RMVs) operational from 14 days to 90 days. They argue that the current 14-day requirement is disproportionately burdensome and that a 90-day window provides necessary flexibility for operators to address operational and weather-related challenges without compromising safety.

The American Gas Association and the American Public Gas Association support the proposal to extend the timeframe for making rupture mitigation valves (RMVs) operational from 14 to 90 days. They argue that the current 14-day requirement is often impractical due to construction delays, power supply issues, and safety hazards, and that the extension will allow for safer, more thorough commissioning.

The Pipeline Safety Trust, a nonprofit watchdog organization, opposes the proposed extension of the rupture-mitigation valve (RMV) operability deadline from 14 to 90 days. They argue that the proposal is based on unsubstantiated industry claims, lacks sufficient data analysis, and poses a significant risk to public safety by delaying the activation of critical safety mechanisms during the high-risk initial period of pipeline operation.

The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) opposes the proposed rule to extend the timeframe for making rupture-mitigation valves (RMVs) operational from 14 to 90 days. They argue that the rule weakens critical safety standards established after the San Bruno disaster and that the Preliminary Regulatory Impact Analysis fails to account for the significant safety risks and potential for catastrophic events.

The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA), representing approximately 2,400 companies in the propane industry, supports the proposed rule regarding the timeframe to make rupture-mitigation valves operational. While they note that the 14-day period is burdensome for their members, they ultimately express support for the rule and commend PHMSA for including hazardous liquids pipelines.