On March 10, 2004, RSPA published a final rule that amended regulations in 49 CFR part 193 related to the fire protection of LNG facilities used in gas pipeline transportation ( 69 FR 11330; Docket No. RSPA-03-14456). An amendment to 49 CFR 193.2005 clarified that the fire protection requirements of part 193 (contained in � 193.2801, Fire protection) apply to LNG facilities existing on March 31, 2000. In addition, an amendment to � 193.2801 clarified which provisions of NFPA 59A, “Standard for the Production, Storage, and Handling of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)” were incorporated by reference. That amendment also provided an extended compliance time for actions to be taken regarding certain systems and personnel qualification. A separate amendment updated all part 193 references to the 1996 edition of NFPA 59A to the 2001 edition of that standard.
By letter dated April 8, 2004, the American Gas Association, a trade association representing operators of LNG facilities, submitted a petition for reconsideration of the final rule as it relates to the fire protection requirements of � 193.2801. RSPA�s response of July 12, 2004, rejected AGA�s petition, and gave additional information concerning RSPA�s interpretation of the new rule requirements. For a complete copy of RSPA�s response, please contact Laura Wager at lwager@your-rcp.com.