A final rule was published July 23,1979. (Amdt. 192-34:44 FR 42068), establishing tests for qualifying procedures and personnel to make all types of joints in plastic pipeline used in the transportation of natural and other gas by pipeline. The docket was held open until September 30,1979, for further comments. In response to comments, MTB has made certain. changesto thatfinal rule. The mostsignificantchanges:(1) permit the use of any force.on a speciren lateraLjoint that. initiates failur4 (2) permit tensile. testing, at ambient temperature and-humidity; (3) more clearly define the criteria for, test specimen acceptance. or failure; (4) permit joining of pipe-and fittings manufactured before July 1, 1980, in accordance with existing procedures without requalifying those procedures; (5) permit alternative test methods for qualifying persons to make heat fusion, solvent cement, or adhesive joints; and (6) redefine and limit the conditions under which a person must requalify to make plastic pipe joints.