Federal Register #2026-08061

PHMSA Final Rule: Editorial Corrections and ASTM F1973 (2025) Update for Pipeline Safety

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), under the Department of Transportation, has issued final and direct final rules to clarify and update pipeline safety regulations: - Government Buyer: - Department of Transportation - Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) - Products/Standards Referenced: - Factory Assembled Anodeless Risers and Transition Fittings - Standard: ASTM F1973 (2025 edition) - Applies to polyethylene (PE), polyamide 11 (PA11), and polyamide 12 (PA12) fuel gas distribution systems - Criteria for Conducting Integrity Assessments Using Guided Wave Ultrasonic Testing (GWUT) - Regulation: 49 CFR part 192, Appendix F - Editorial correction: replaces duplicate Roman numeral XIV with XIX, clarifying timing for direct examination of indications above detection sensitivity threshold - Unique/Notable Requirements: - No new compliance requirements are imposed; changes are editorial and update industry standards - The rule incorporates the latest edition of ASTM F1973 for relevant pipeline components - Aims to improve regulatory clarity, maintain or enhance public safety, and reduce compliance burdens - No OEMs or vendors are specifically named in the rulemaking - Place of Performance/Delivery: - PHMSA Headquarters, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590

Description

This final rule issued by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) under the Department of Transportation makes editorial corrections and non-substantive changes to the criteria for conducting integrity assessments using guided wave ultrasonic testing (GWUT). Specifically, it corrects a typographical numbering error in 49 CFR part 192, Appendix F, replacing a duplicate Roman numeral XIV with XIX to remove regulatory uncertainty. The rule does not impose new requirements but aims to improve clarity and compliance with existing Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations. The rule is effective August 3, 2026.

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