What is The PHMSA?

As a part of the United States Department of Transportation, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is a federal agency tasked with overseeing the transport of hazardous materials. As part of this duty, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration also regulates how hazardous materials can be transported via pipeline. This means that the Administration is of particular importance to oil and gas producers. Stay ahead of PHMSA compliance - ensure safety and success! Click here for expert guidance and support.

The History of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration was created in 2004 in an attempt to regulate the transportation of all hazardous materials. Although the Administration is concerned with transportation issues related to any material deemed hazardous, it places a specific focus on the transportation of oil and gas resources.

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration creates regulations designed to protect people and the environment from harm that can come from oil spills, natural gas leaks and unsafe practices in the handling of hazardous materials during transport. The Administration has gained prominence in the oil and gas industry as new technologies have made it easier than ever to transport oil and gas through pipelines across long distances.

How Does the Administration Regulate Pipelines?

In terms of regulations, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration imposes restrictions on how oil and gas can be sent through pipelines, but it also conducts routine safety inspections. Additionally, safety incidents involving oil and gas pipelines are investigated by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

Oil and gas producers may meet with officials from the Administration to discuss and review safety protocols. Programmatic inspections for management systems also play a part in the relationships between oil and gas producers and the Administration. Any new construction of a pipeline or pipeline facility will fall under the purview of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration as well.

Penalties for Violating Regulations

Oil and gas operators found to violate regulations may face civil penalties, including fines and fees. If criminal negligence results in a pipeline accident, the Administration may work alongside other agencies to pursue criminal charges against an oil and gas operation.

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