OPS is working with the pipeline industry to improve pipeline integrity management and operator qualification, enhance public education and awareness, and facilitate permitting for critical safety-related repairs.
We are actively engaging with industry and other stakeholders, including legislators, regulatory agencies, emergency responders and the public, to identify recommended practices and develop new national consensus standards to improve operator performance and pipeline safety and to enhance communication, pipeline inspection and enforcement processes. These initiatives become increasingly important as the demand for pipeline transportation and the scrutiny of pipeline operations continue to grow.
Our goal is zero pipeline accidents, and we challenge you to help us make that goal a reality.
Information Highlights
Gas Transmission and Hazardous Liquid Pipeline Marker Workshop
PHMSA hosted a Gas Transmission and Hazardous Liquid Pipeline Marker Workshop in February 2008, in Houston, TX. The purpose of the meeting was to begin work to develop uniform, nationwide expectations for pipeline marker location and content and OPS enforcement policy to further reduce the risk of excavation damage to gas transmission and hazardous liquid pipelines. Presentation files from the meeting are available. More..
Best Practices in Damage Prevention
The Common Ground Alliance (CGA) provides and promotes comprehensive best practices in the area of pipeline damage prevention. They are an invaluable resource for excavators, as well as for state and local policymakers. More...
PHMSA’s Pipeline Safety Research and Development Program
PHMSA’s pipeline safety research & development efforts relate to different pipeline types and application areas and address issues important to pipeline safety stakeholders. More...
Navigating the 'Permitting Pathway'
OPS and a host of other federal agencies are exploring ways to coordinate permitting for crucial pipeline safety-related repairs. Timely permitting for essential repairs equates to enhanced public safety. More...
Improving Stakeholder Communications
Our Community Assistance and Technical Services managers perform a broad range of communications and problem-solving duties. Find out how they can help you cut through the clutter and find the information you need. More...
New Technologies to Increase Pipeline Safety
OPS is funding extensive research and development aimed at increasing pipeline safety. Some of the programs being funded may be of particular interest to excavators and industry representatives. More...
Integrity Management
Extensive information regarding pipeline integrity management for gas and liquid pipelines is available. More...
Emergency Pre-Planning with Other Utilities
Federal regulations require pipeline operators to plan emergency response before an emergency happens. PHMSA has advised operators to outreach to owners of electric and other utilities in order to preplan and coordinate response to pipeline emergencies. More...