PHMSA has released a preliminary copy of this interim final rule. It is expected to be published in the Federal Register within the next 7-10 days.
ViaData will publish the official version when released.
The following is a summary of the rule.
SUMMARY: Excess flow valves (EFV), which are safety devices installed on natural gas distribution pipelines to reduce the risk of accidents, are currently required for new or replaced gas service lines servicing single-family residences (SFR), as that phrase is defined in 49 CFR 192.383(a). This final rule makes changes to part 192 to expand this requirement to include new or replaced branched service lines servicing SFRs, multifamily residences, and small commercial entities consuming gas volumes not exceeding 1,000 Standard Cubic Feet per Hour (SCFH). PHMSA is also amending part 192 to require the use of either manual service line shut-off valves (e.g., curb valves) or EFVs, if appropriate, for new or replaced service lines with meter capacities exceeding 1,000 SCFH. Lastly, this final rule requires operators to notify customers of their right to request installation of an EFV on service lines that are not being newly installed or replaced. PHMSA has left the question of who bears the cost of installing EFVs on service lines not being newly installed or replaced to the operator’s rate-setter.
Press Release
PHMSA 26-16
Friday, October 7, 2016
Contact: Artealia Gilliard
Tel.: 202-366-4831
Final Rule Expands Requirement for Excess Flow Valves on New and Replaced Gas Distribution Pipelines
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration today announced a Final Rule that expands safety requirements for Excess Flow Valves (EFVs) to multi-residential and commercial applications. The final rule requires the installation of EFVs in new or replaced service lines for multi-family residences – including apartment buildings and other multi-residential dwellings – and small commercial buildings.
Excess Flow Valves automatically halt the flow of gas caused by damage to service lines that supply gas to buildings and significantly reduce the risk of fires or pipeline explosion. Excess flow valves are already required in new and replaced service lines that supply gas to single-family residences.
The rule also requires gas distribution companies to install curb valves – manually-operated shutoff valves located near the service main – or EFVs for all new or replaced service lines with meter capacities exceeding 1,000 standard cubic feet per hour to protect against uncontrolled gas releases from larger commercial and industrial users.
Customers may request installation of an EFV on existing service lines. Pipeline operators are required to notify all existing multi-family and small commercial customers of their right to request an EFV.
This final rule is effective six months after publication in the Federal Register.
The rule has been transmitted to the Federal Register and will be published in 7-10 days.