Federal Register #2026-08052

PHMSA Regulatory Update: Incorporation of NACE SP0206 and ASTM F1055 Standards for Pipeline Safety

PHMSA, part of the Department of Transportation, is updating federal pipeline safety standards to incorporate the latest industry standards for pipeline materials and assessment methodologies. - Government Buyer: - Department of Transportation, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) - OEMs and Standards Organizations: - NACE (publisher of NACE SP0206 standard) - ASTM International (publisher of ASTM F1055 standard) - Products/Standards Incorporated: - NACE SP0206 (2016 edition): Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment Methodology for Pipelines Carrying Normally Dry Natural Gas - ASTM F1055 (2022 edition): Electrofusion Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyethylene and Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe and Tubing - No specific products, quantities, or procurement of goods/services are requested; this is a regulatory update incorporating standards by reference - Notable Requirements: - Pipeline operators must comply with the updated NACE SP0206 and ASTM F1055 standards as incorporated into 49 CFR part 192 - The rule aims to improve public safety, reduce regulatory confusion, and lessen compliance burdens for pipeline operators nationwide - Scope: - Applies to all pipeline operators regulated under 49 CFR part 192 - Nationwide impact - Locations: - U.S. Department of Transportation Headquarters, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC - Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)

Description

This direct final rule amends PHMSA's regulations to incorporate by reference an updated edition of industry standard NACE SP0206, which is the Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment Methodology for Pipelines Carrying Normally Dry Natural Gas (DG-ICDA). The updated standard aims to maintain or improve public safety, prevent regulatory confusion, reduce compliance burdens on stakeholders, and satisfy a mandate in the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) of 1995. The rule is effective January 1, 2027, unless adverse comments are received by June 23, 2026, in which case a notice of proposed rulemaking will be published for further comment.

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