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In This Issue

  1. Texas Issues Final Rule for Mandatory Gas Distribution Facility Replacements
  2. RCP’s Web-Based Compliance Management Systems
  3. DIMP Integration
  4. Key Features
  5. Advisory Bulletin (ADB-11-02) Dangers of Abnormal Snow & Ice Build-Up on Gas Distribution Systems
  6. PHMSA Updates Gas Distribution Integrity Management FAQ’s
  7. PHMSA Updates Hazardous Liquid Integrity Management FAQ’s
  8. NTSB Hearing on San Bruno
  9. MAOP Analysis Services
  10. PHMSA Notice of Extension for Comments on Collection of Info for Periodic Underwater Inspections
  11. TPSSC and THLPSSC Meetings
  12. Control Room Management Services
  13. API Pipeline Conference April 12 – 13
  14. Gas Industry Conferences at a Glance
  15. DOT Pipeline Compliance Workshop – May 10-12, 2011
  16. CGA Excavation Safety Conference & Expo March 8 -10
  17. National Safe Digging Month
  18. RCP Continues to Add More Firepower to its Staff

Advisory Bulletin (ADB-11-02) Dangers of Abnormal Snow & Ice Build-Up on Gas Distribution Systems

The Department of Transportation/Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) recently published advisory bulletin ADB-11-02 to advise owners and operators of petroleum gas and natural gas facilities of the need to take the appropriate steps to prevent damage to pipeline facilities from accumulated snow or ice. Past events on natural gas distribution system facilities appear to have been related to either the stress of snow and ice or the malfunction of pressure control equipment due to ice blockage of pressure control equipment vents. PHMSA is advising operators of petroleum gas and natural gas pipeline facilities, regardless of whether those facilities are regulated by PHMSA or state agencies, to consider the following steps to address the safety risks from accumulated snow and ice on pipeline facilities:

  • Notify customers and other entities of the need for caution associated with excessive accumulation and removal of snow and ice. Notice should include the need to clear snow and ice from exhaust and combustion air vents for gas appliances to: (a) Prevent accumulation of carbon monoxide in buildings; or (b) Prevent operational problems for the combustion equipment.
  • Pay attention to snow and ice related situations that may cause operational problems for pressure control and other equipment.
  • Monitor the accumulation of moisture in equipment and snow or ice blocking regulator or relief valve vents which could prevent regulators and relief valves from functioning properly.
  • The piping on service regulator sets is susceptible to damage that could result in failure if caution is not exercised in cleaning snow from around the equipment. Where possible, use a broom instead of a shovel to clear snow off regulators, meters, associated piping, propane tanks, tubing, gauges or other propane system appurtenances.
  • Remind the public to contact the gas company or designated emergency response officials if there is an odor of gas present or if gas appliances are not functioning properly. Also, remind the public that they should leave their residence immediately if they detect a gas or propane odor and report the odor to their gas company, propane operator or designated emergency response officials.

For a copy of ADB-11-02, contact Jessica Roger.