The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has issued an advisory bulletin recommending pipeline operators adopt Pipeline Safety Management Systems (PSMS). The bulletin is aligned with the American Petroleum Institute’s Recommended Practice (API RP 1173), a widely accepted framework designed to enhance pipeline safety through proactive risk management.
Key Takeaways from the Advisory
- Proactive Safety Management: The bulletin advises a methodical approach to identifying, evaluating and reducing pipeline risks, extending beyond minimum regulatory requirements.
- Safety Culture Emphasis: A robust PSMS encourages cultivating a strong safety culture throughout an organization, involving leadership and employees at all levels, including contractors.
- Continuous Improvement: Operators are encouraged to continually evolve and enhance their safety practices. The PSMS framework calls for ongoing evaluation, feedback and refinement of safety strategies.
- Lessons from Past Incidents: The advisory references significant pipeline incidents, noting that comprehensive PSMS implementation might have mitigated or prevented past pipeline accidents.
- Scalable Framework: API RP 1173 accommodates operators of different sizes and complexities by allowing them to customize PSMS efforts to suit their specific risk profiles.
- Voluntary Adoption: PHMSA clarifies this advisory is not a new regulation. Instead, it serves as guidance, strongly encouraging voluntary adoption by operators to enhance safety beyond minimum standards.
Why It Matters
As regulatory and public scrutiny of pipeline safety continues to evolve, a well-designed PSMS can help reduce incidents, protect communities and the environment and promote robust organizational resilience. It also reassures stakeholders and regulators that an operator is committed to continual safety improvements
Next Steps
Pipeline operators interested in enhancing their safety practices can review the advisory to understand the benefits of adopting a PSMS anchored in API RP 1173. TRC is available to assist with reviewing current safety programs, designing customized PSMS strategies and implementing continuous improvement processes.
Contact us to learn how a comprehensive Pipeline Safety Management System can help your organization stay ahead of emerging industry expectations and prioritize the safety of both people and the environment.
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