Federal Register #PHMSA-2026-1553

PHMSA Proposed Rule: Extended Deadline for Rupture-Mitigation Valve Operability on Pipelines

PHMSA, part of the Department of Transportation, is proposing a regulatory amendment affecting pipeline safety requirements: - Government Buyer: - Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), Department of Transportation (DOT) - Scope of Rulemaking: - Seeks to extend the required operational timeframe for rupture-mitigation valves (RMVs) and alternative equivalent technologies on gas transmission, hazardous liquid, and carbon dioxide pipelines - Changes the deadline from 14 days to 90 days after installation for new or replaced pipeline segments - Applies to pipelines with diameters of 6 inches or greater in high-consequence areas or Class 3/4 locations - Products/Technologies Referenced: - Rupture-mitigation valves (RMVs) - Alternative equivalent technologies for pipeline rupture mitigation - Notable Requirements: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named, as this is a regulatory change, not a product or service procurement - The rule is intended to address industry concerns about the feasibility of the current 14-day requirement, considering weather, operational, and equipment procurement challenges - The amendment is expected to reduce compliance burdens without compromising safety - Regulatory References: - 49 CFR Parts 192 and 195 - No direct procurement of products or services is involved in this action

Description

PHMSA proposes to amend the required timeframes for making rupture-mitigation valves and alternative equivalent technology operational on gas transmission, hazardous liquid, and carbon dioxide pipelines. The proposal seeks to increase the timeframe from 14 days to 90 days for these valves to become operational after installation. This change aims to reduce the burden on operators while maintaining safety standards. Comments on the proposal must be received by June 23, 2026.

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