Federal Register #2026-07752

PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on Preventing Excavation Damage During National Safe Digging Month

This advisory bulletin from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), under the Department of Transportation, addresses pipeline safety during National Safe Digging Month: - Audience: All owners and operators of gas and hazardous liquid pipeline facilities - Purpose: Emphasizes the prevention of excavation damage, especially during periods of increased infrastructure activity - Key Recommendations: - Adhere to Common Ground Alliance (CGA) best practices for safe excavation - Ensure accurate and timely pipeline locating - Proactively coordinate with excavators to prevent pipeline strikes - Enhance locator training and public awareness campaigns - Conduct pre-construction meetings and thorough inspections after near-miss events - Safety Threats Addressed: - High-density excavation activity - Inaccurate locating and improper excavation techniques - One-call exemptions, shallow pipelines, and industrial activities - Regulatory Reminders: - Compliance with 49 CFR 192.613 and 195.401 for continuing surveillance and risk management - No specific products, OEMs, or purchase quantities are mentioned, as this is an advisory notice, not a procurement opportunity.

Description

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued an advisory bulletin to all owners and operators of gas and hazardous liquid pipeline facilities emphasizing the critical importance of preventing excavation damage. The bulletin highlights adherence to Common Ground Alliance best practices, accurate locating, and proactive coordination with excavators to prevent pipeline strikes, especially during National Safe Digging Month. It addresses safety threats such as high-density excavation activity, inaccurate locating, improper excavation techniques, and one-call exemptions. PHMSA encourages enhanced safety protocols, public awareness campaigns, and thorough inspections after near-misses to protect pipeline integrity and public safety.

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