Pipeline Safety Alert: Inventory Plastic Pipes After Deadly Blast
Published Date: 1/23/2026
Notice
Summary
PHMSA is reminding natural gas pipeline owners to check and manage plastic pipes and parts, especially those near heat, after a deadly 2023 gas explosion in Pennsylvania. Operators must do a one-time inventory of plastic assets in hot spots, keep an eye on them during work, and fix any risks to prevent damage. This heads-up helps keep communities safe and avoids costly accidents.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 6 costs, 0 mixed.
Evaluate, prioritize, and mitigate plastic risks
PHMSA advises operators to evaluate and rank risks for plastic assets exposed to or potentially exposed to elevated temperatures, and to determine and implement measures such as effective leak management programs, replacement or remediation, opportunistic material verification during maintenance, and additional leak surveys. The guidance references DIMP obligations under 49 CFR part 192, subpart P (e.g., Sec. 192.1007(c) and (d)).
Address Aldyl A tees with Delrin inserts
PHMSA relays NTSB Safety Recommendation P-25-2 advising operators to address risks specifically associated with Aldyl A service tees that have Delrin polyacetal inserts, including replacing or remediating them. This follows the finding that an Aldyl A tee with a Delrin insert was the degraded component in the March 24, 2023 West Reading explosion.
One-time inventory of plastic assets
PHMSA advises owners and operators of natural gas distribution systems to complete a one-time inventory of all plastic pipe and components located in environments that experience or are at risk of elevated temperatures. This advisory follows the March 24, 2023 West Reading, PA incident and implements NTSB Recommendation P-25-1.
Identify vintage plastic materials at risk
PHMSA lists specific plastic materials to consider vulnerable to elevated temperatures, including plastic pipe installed between 1960 and the early 1980s, low-ductile inner wall Aldyl A (pre-1973), PE 3306 polyethylene, Aldyl A tees with Delrin polyacetal inserts, Plexco Celcon (polyacetal) caps, and Driscopipe 7000/8000 HDPE. Operators are advised to consider these materials when assessing threats under their Distribution Integrity Management Program (DIMP).
Keep new plastic mains clear of heat
PHMSA reminds operators that Sec. 192.325(c) requires plastic mains installed as new or replacements to have sufficient clearance or insulation from heat sources to prevent heat from impairing pipe serviceability. The advisory specifically cites underground steam lines and electric lines as examples of elevated temperature sources.
Maintain 10-year DIMP records
PHMSA reminds operators to maintain records demonstrating compliance with part 192, subpart P for at least 10 years. Records may include pipe location and material type, documents supporting threat identification and risk analysis, and documentation of measures implemented to reduce risk.
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