This new PHMSA advisory bulletin will enhance pipeline safety
PHMSA's new advisory and the role of PSMS
On March 25, 2025, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced a significant push towards enhancing pipeline safety through the adoption of Pipeline Safety Management Systems (PSMS). This initiative, led by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), aims to encourage all regulated pipeline owners and operators to voluntarily implement PSMS to improve safety and reduce incidents.
Interested in PSMS’s ten essential elements? Read my article here to get started.
Key Points from the Announcement
PHMSA is advocating for the voluntary adoption of PSMS by all regulated pipeline owners and operators. This system provides a comprehensive framework for managing safety risks associated with pipeline operations[1].
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has long supported the implementation of PSMS. The advisory bulletin aligns with NTSB's recommendations following significant pipeline incidents in the past[1].
The advisory encourages the use of the American Petroleum Institute's Recommended Practice 1173 (API RP 1173) as a guideline for developing and implementing PSMS. This practice outlines the elements necessary for identifying, managing, and reducing risks throughout the pipeline lifecycle[2].
The initiative is consistent with Section 205 of the Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety (PIPES) Act of 2020, which mandates the promotion of PSMS by pipeline operators[2].
Benefits of PSMS
PSMS offers a proactive approach to managing safety risks, ensuring that potential issues are identified and addressed before they lead to incidents.
The system promotes continuous improvement in safety performance, helping operators to adapt and enhance their safety practices over time.
PSMS is designed to be scalable, making it suitable for pipeline operators of varying sizes and operational complexities[2].
The new advisory from PHMSA marks a significant step towards improving pipeline safety in the United States. The initiative aims to create a safer and more reliable pipeline infrastructure, ultimately benefiting both the industry and the public.
Not sure where to start? Read about PSMS’s ten essential elements here. You can find API RP 1173’s official document for purchase here.
References
[1] U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Advocates for Enhancing ...
[2] Pipeline Safety: Pipeline Safety Management System - Federal Register