PHMSA Rule Aimed At Preventing Releases Will Require U.S. Operators To Install Automatic Shut-off Valves On All New Pipelines

All new or replaced onshore U.S. pipelines must be outfitted with automatic shut-off valves, under a new rule issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration ("PHMSA") on March 31. The final rule, which applies to pipelines six inches or more in diameter, is aimed at reducing environmental damage and methane emissions from pipeline ruptures. The rule also requires that operators have emergency response plans that contain written procedures for the timely identification and mitigation of ruptures on their systems, as well as procedures for engaging public safety officials such as 911 call centers and first responders. The final rule will take effect September 27, 2022.