PHMSA is proposing new performance standards for advanced leak detection programs (ALDP). Section 113 of the PIPES Act of 2020 requires PHMSA to issue performance standards for operator leak detection and repair programs reflecting the capabilities of commercially available, advanced leak detection technologies and practices. To satisfy this mandate, PHMSA proposes to introduce a new requirement that operators establish written ALDPs performance standards for both the sensitivity of leak detection equipment and for the effectiveness of those ALDPs.
This new requirement would provide benefits to both public safety and the environment by ensuring that pipeline operators have programs in place to promptly detect and repair leaks of all gas pipelines subject to part 192.