The Railroad Commission of Texas has published new final rules for mandatory steel service line replacements. 16 TAC 8.209 Distribution Facilities Replacements prescribes the minimum requirements by which all gas distribution operators in Texas will develop and implement a risk-based program for the removal or replacement of steel service lines. Gas distribution operators affected by this rule must:
- By August 1, 2011 develop and submit to the Railroad Commission their written program intended to comply with the requirements of the new final rule.
- Develop a risk analysis program which ranks and prioritizes the highest risk facilities. Elements required to be included in the risk analysis are pipe location, composition of the piping system, corrosion history, environmental factors and any other conditions that would increase the potential or consequences of a leak.
- Conduct a leak rate analysis for those steel service line segments that pose the greatest risk.
- Complete the removal or replacement of steel service lines that pose the greatest risk within the following timelines:
- By June 30, 2013 for all steel segments with a leak rate of 7.5% or greater (i.e. Priority 1 segment)
- 10% of all steel service line segments each year with leak rates between 5% and 7.5% (i.e. Priority 2 segment)
- Replace (not repair) any service line that experience a leak within a segment with a leak rate less than 5% (i.e. Priority 3 segment)
- Replace a minimum of 5% annually of the pipeline segments or facilities that pose the greatest risk.
- Provide notice to the Railroad Commission with the schedule of replacements as well as any revisions to its program and replacement work plans.
For more information on how RCP can assist, or to obtain a copy of the preamble and final rule, contact Jessica Roger.