Interpretation Response #PI-01-0115 ([Alliance Pipeline Inc.] [Mr. Rick Gulstad])
Below is the interpretation response detail and a list of regulations sections applicable to this response.
Interpretation Response Details
Response Publish Date:
Company Name: Alliance Pipeline Inc.
Individual Name: Mr. Rick Gulstad
Location State: MN Country: US
View the Interpretation Document
Response text:
U.S. Department of Transportation
Research and Special Programs Administration
September 5, 2001
Mr. Rick Gulstad
Compliance Engineer
Alliance Pipeline Inc.
6385 Old Shady Oak Road, Suite 150
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Dear Mr. Gulstad:
This is in response to your enclosed letter of May 29, 2001, requesting an interpretation of the pipeline odorization requirements in 49 CFR § 192.625.
You note that Alliance currently odorizes gas for compressors station uses, but would prefer to use only gas detectors to increase the level of safety at unmanned stations. Gas detectors would allow for round-the-clock monitoring for gas leaks at the stations.
The odorization requirements at § 192.625 of the pipeline safety regulations only require odorization of gas in a transmission facility in a Class 3 or 4 location. Alliance's compressor stations are all in Class 1 or 2 locations. Therefore, odorization of gas at these compressor stations, even for domestic uses, is not required. In addition, it is clear that monitored gas detectors at such locations will provide a higher level of safety.
In short, the pipeline safety regulations do not require Alliance to odorize gas in its compressor station facilities, as long as they are not in a Class 3 or 4 areas.
If you need further assistance, please call me at (202) 366-4565.
Sincerely yours,
Richard D. Huriaux, P.E.
Manager, Regulations
Office of Pipeline Safety
Regulation Sections
| Section | Subject |
|---|---|
| 192.625 | Odorization of gas |