PHMSA proposes updating LNG facility safety rules to 2026 industry standard
- Proposal would replace 2001 edition of NFPA 59A
- Agency estimates about $98 million in annualized cost savings
- Comments due 60 days after Federal Register publication
Photo: Wikimedia Commons - GerardolagunesWhat changed The proposed rule would replace the 2001 edition of NFPA 59A with the 2026 edition as the industry standard incorporated by reference in PHMSA's LNG facility regulations.
HOUSTON — The U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has proposed updating its safety rules for liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities, which the agency said are largely based on a 2001 industry standard and have not been updated since 2006.1
The notice of proposed rulemaking would incorporate by reference the 2026 edition of the National Fire Protection Association's NFPA 59A standard, in place of the 2001 edition PHMSA currently uses for most purposes.1 According to the notice, the 2001 edition is now seven editions out of date.1
PHMSA estimates the annualized cost savings from the proposed rule at approximately $98 million (discounted at three percent), according to the notice.1 The agency said some new compliance costs and many cost savings could not be quantified.1 A Department of Transportation press release put the savings at $100 million annually.2
According to the notice, PHMSA has submitted the proposal to the Office of the Federal Register.1 The official version will appear in a forthcoming Federal Register publication.1
"The only thing standing in our way is outdated red tape," U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said in the press release.2
The proposal would add a risk-based siting option using quantitative risk analysis and set separate requirements for permanent, small-scale LNG facilities, the notice says.1 It would also let facilities under Federal Energy Regulatory Commission jurisdiction use a risk-based operations and maintenance program.1
Under the proposal, operators choosing that program would submit implementation plans.1 PHMSA would approve or deny each plan within 30 calendar days, and plans not approved within 30 days would be deemed denied.1
The updated siting requirements would apply to facilities designed, constructed, replaced, relocated or significantly altered five years after a final rule is published.1 Comments are due 60 days after publication.1
PHMSA issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking in May 2025 and received over 7,618 comments, according to the notice.1