USA Banner

Official US Government Icon

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure Site Icon

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

U.S. Department of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation Icon United States Department of Transportation United States Department of Transportation

PERI FAQs

  1. What is the PERI?
  2. Why is the PERI needed?
  3. How did the PERI begin?
  4. Who is involved?
  5. What are the benefits of the PERI?
  6. What other related information is available?
  7. How do we start a PERI in my state?
  1. What is the PERI?

    The PERI is a program intended to enhance communications and strengthen relationships among emergency responders, pipeline operators, and regulators.

  2. Why is the PERI needed?

    The PERI is needed to bring about a better understanding of stakeholders' shared responsibilities to help prevent and properly respond to pipeline incidents. It can spur the development and implementation of enhanced pipeline emergency response training and ensure that information pipeline operators provide to emergency responders to meet regulatory requirements are consistent, while not being duplicative.

  3. How did the PERI begin?

    Beginning in 2012, a diverse group of pipeline operators and firefighters, along with state and federal regulators, came together to create the Georgia PERI.

  4. Who is involved?

    PERI participation is open to any stakeholder group interested in having a seat at the table in the interest of protecting people and the environment from the risks inherent in transporting hazardous material through pipelines. PHMSA initially works with stakeholders to invite as many potentially interested parties as possible to an information meeting about the PERI program. A PERI steering committee is subsequently formed to develop a PERI program, while working to maximize and sustain stakeholder involvement.
     
  5. What are the benefits of the PERI?

    At a minimum, PERI participation can help improve communications among pipeline operators, emergency responders, and other stakeholders. The PERI provides an opportunity to consolidate existing pipeline emergency response efforts, particularly regarding public awareness and emergency response training, into a single program. It can lead to better, more consistent information and training materials or courses on pipeline emergencies for emergency responders, faster responses to pipeline emergencies, and better media and public relations. The PERI can also help ensure that personnel and equipment are used as efficiently as possible, while providing a mechanism for pipeline operators and emergency responders alike to develop, document, and track performance toward meeting emergency responder training goals.

  6. What other related information is available?

    The National Volunteer Fire Council worked with PHMSA to develop the Fire Department Pipeline Response Emergency Planning & Preparedness (FD PREPP) Toolkit. The toolkit is a free resource designed to help departments conduct pre-incident planning, increase preparedness, and improve response.

  7. How do we start a PERI in my state?

    Formerly known as the Community Assistance and Technical Services (CATS) Program, PHMSA's Community Liaison Services has taken a leadership role in helping states initiate PERIs nationwide. Contact your state's Community Liaison or a PHMSA primary PERI point of contact to inquire about a PERI in your state.

Last updated: Wednesday, August 14, 2019