In order to inspect, test, certify, repair, or rebuild certain types of cylinders and pressure receptacles, a person must be approved by PHMSA.  Travel restrictions and quarantine requirements imposed by various government agencies during the COVID-19 public health emergency made it difficult for requalification identification number (RIN) holders to obtain an onsite review and the pre-approval inspection report required to be submitted with an application for renewal of their approval, per the Hazardous Materials Regulations.  To ensure the continued availability of medical and other critical compressed gases, for an additional 45 days PHMSA will continue to waive compliance with 49 CFR 107.805(b) for RIN holders when requesting renewal of their approval if they are unable to obtain an Independent Inspection Agency inspection prior to applying for renewal of their approval.

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) intends to allow the current COVID RIN waiver policy to expire on April 15, 2021.  After April 15, 2021, RIN applications must comply with the requirements of 49 CFR § 107.805.  PHMSA makes this announcement with the intention of ensuring that all RIN holders can submit for renewal at least 60 days prior to the expiration date of their approval, in accordance with 49 CFR § 107.705(c), by submitting a request in writing to approvals@dot.gov.  For those who are unable to submit 60 days prior to the expiration of their approval, PHMSA will review and process such applications, as required, on a case-by-case basis, to ensure continued RIN service.

Please contact Duane Cassidy, Chief of the Pressure Vessels Branch, at (202) 366-5794, or email approvals@dot.gov, with any questions you may have.