Must an operator follow the Gas Piping Technology Committee (GPTC) DIMP guidelines?
No. The GPTC DIMP guidelines provide options that operators can use in implementing the high-level requirements of the proposed rule. The GPTC DIMP guidelines are not incorporated into the proposed rule, and thus do not have the weight of requirements. Operators may use other approaches, to meet the high-level requirements of the proposed rule. Operators will need to demonstrate to their regulators that their actions meet the proposed rule requirements. PHMSA and State pipeline safety regulators participated in the development of the GPTC guidelines and have confidence that operators who follow them will comply with the requirements of the proposed rule.