PHMSA ADB-08-04- Installation of Excess Flow Valves into Gas Service Lines

PHMSA issued an advisory bulletin to advise gas distribution pipeline operators of a statutory requirement to install excess flow valves in selected gas service lines. The Pipeline Inspection, Protection, Enforcement, and Safety (PIPES) Act of 2006 mandates that PHMSA require operators of natural gas distribution systems to install excess flow valves (EFV) on certain gas service lines. The statute directs that installation of EFVs will be required on single family residence service lines:

• That are installed or entirely replaced after June 1, 2008;
• That operate continuously throughout the year at a pressure not less than 10 psi gauge;
• That are not connected to a gas stream with respect to which the operator has had prior experience with contaminants the presence of which could interfere with the operation of an EFV, and
• For which an excess flow valve meeting the performance standards of 49 CFR 192.381 is commercially available.

The PIPES Act directs PHMSA to include this requirement in a regulation addressing distribution integrity management programs (DIMP). PHMSA is working on its DIMP regulation and expects a proposed rule to be published shortly. PHMSA intends to analyze public comments and prepare a final rule in an expeditious manner. It is apparent, however, that the final rule cannot be in place before the June 1, 2008, deadline for EFV installation that is in the Act.

PHMSA encourages all gas distribution pipeline operators to take actions to ensure that EFVs are installed on the appropriate service lines that are installed or completely replaced after June 1, 2008.

For a copy of PHMSA Advisory ADB-08-04, contact Jessica Roger.