Gas Distribution Integrity Management - Farm Tap FAQs

Portal detail 1Gas Distribution Integrity Management - Farm Tap FAQs faqsfarm-tap.docx (14.63 KB) The FAQs contained on this page are intended to clarify, explain, and promote better understanding and implementation of the gas distribution pipeline integrity management (IM) and "Farm Tap" regulations contained in 49 CFR Part 192, SubPart P and § 192.740. These FAQs reflect PHMSA's current application of the regulations to the specific implementation scenarios presented. Effective Date: Thursday, August 23, 2018#

Attachment 1, passage 1Gas Distribution Integrity Management Program: Farm Tap FAQs The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) provides written clarification of the pipeline safety regulations (49 CFR Parts 190-199) in the form of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and other guidance materials. The FAQs contained on this page are intended to clarify, explain, and promote better understanding and implementation of the gas distribution pipeline integrity management (IM) and "Farm Tap" regulations contained in 49 CFR Part 192, SubPart P and § 192.740. These FAQs reflect PHMSA's current application of the regulations to the specific implementation scenarios presented. There are many scenarios in which Farm Taps exist in gas distribution systems, not all scenarios can be accounted for in individual FAQs, and some FAQs provide more general guidance for stakeholders to implement their intent in practice for a given scenario. FAQs are not substantive rules, themselves, and do not create legally enforceable rights, assign duties, or impose new obligations not otherwise contained in the existing regulations and standards, but are provided to help the regulated community understand how to comply with the regulations. However, an operator who is able to demonstrate compliance with the FAQs is likely to be able to demonstrate compliance with the relevant regulations. If a different course of action is taken by a pipeline operator, the operator must be able to demonstrate that their conduct is in accordance with the regulations. Written regulatory interpretations regarding specific situations may also be obtained from PHMSA in accordance with 49 CFR Parts 190, § 190.11.#

Attachment 1, passage 2The State-Federal DIMP (Distribution Integrity Management Program) Implementation Team was created to support improvements in the integrity of the nation's gas distribution pipeline systems through development of inspection methods and guidance for evaluation of an operator's DIMP. Some material presented on this website was created by the team through a consensus process. States will implement the distribution IM and other pipeline safety regulations under their individual State statutory authority in accordance with the applicable certification under 49 U.S.C. 60105 of this title or agreement under Section 60106. States may establish their own procedures, inspection forms, and guidance in implementing these regulations. Since State authority and regulatory structures differ, operators should contact the regulatory authority exercising jurisdiction over their distribution pipeline(s) for more information.#

Attachment 1, passage 3Farm Taps were included in the "OQ Rule" which was published on 01/23/2017 and became effective on 03/24/2017, and the applicable text is as follows: § 192.740 Pressure regulating, limiting, and overpressure protection - Individual service lines directly connected to production, gathering, or transmission pipelines. (a) This section applies, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, to any service line directly connected to a production, gathering, or transmission pipeline that is not operated as part of a distribution system. (b) Each pressure regulating or limiting device, relief device (except rupture discs), automatic shutoff device, and associated equipment must be inspected and tested at least once every 3 calendar years, not exceeding 39 months, to determine that it is:#

Attachment 1, passage 4(1) In good mechanical condition; (2) Adequate from the standpoint of capacity and reliability of operation for the service in which it is employed; (3) Set to control or relieve at the correct pressure consistent with the pressure limits of § 192.197; and to limit the pressure on the inlet of the service regulator to 60 psi (414 kPa) gauge or less in case the upstream regulator fails to function properly; and (4) Properly installed and protected from dirt, liquids, or other conditions that might prevent proper operation. (c) This section does not apply to equipment installed on service lines that only serve engines that power irrigation pumps. § 192.1003 definitions § 192.1003 definitions#

Attachment 1, passage 5(a) General. Unless exempted in paragraph (b) of this section this subpart prescribes minimum requirements for an IM program for any gas distribution pipeline covered under this part, including liquefied petroleum gas systems. A gas distribution operator, other than a master meter operator or a small LPG operator, must follow the requirements in §§ 192.1005 through 192.1013 of this subpart. A master meter operator or small LPG operator of a gas distribution pipeline must follow the requirements in § 192.1015 of this subpart. (b) Exceptions. This subpart does not apply to an individual service line directly connected to a transmission, gathering, or production pipeline. The posted Farm Tap FAQs have been withdrawn for further review. Revised Farm Tap FAQs will be posted when additional review has been completed. Thank you for your patience while PHMSA completes additional review.#