Slurry Pipelines Slurp Up Latest Safety Rules
Published Date: 4/24/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting January 1, 2027, pipeline companies that move liquids and slurries must follow the latest ASME B31.4 safety rules. This update helps keep everyone safer, cuts down on confusing rules, and makes it easier for companies to follow the law. If you have concerns, you can speak up by June 23, 2026, but otherwise, get ready to roll with the new standards!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Pipeline safety maintained or improved
You may see maintained or improved public safety from liquid and slurry pipelines because PHMSA incorporated ASME B31.4‑2022 into the safety rules, effective January 1, 2027. PHMSA concluded the updated standard will maintain or enhance protection of public safety.
Expected boost to pipeline energy capacity
PHMSA expects that incorporating ASME B31.4‑2022 will increase national pipeline transportation capacity and improve pipeline operators' ability to provide abundant, reliable, affordable natural gas. The update is effective January 1, 2027 unless adverse comments are received by June 23, 2026.
Pipelines must follow ASME B31.4‑2022
If you operate pipelines that move liquids or slurries, you must follow the ASME B31.4‑2022 standard once it is incorporated into 49 CFR part 195 effective January 1, 2027. Adverse comments are due by June 23, 2026, but PHMSA authorizes compliance after June 23, 2026.
Compliance burdens reduced; small cost savings
PHMSA says updating the reference to ASME B31.4‑2022 will reduce regulatory confusion and regulatory burdens for pipeline operators, and that total costs to the regulated community are expected to be less than zero. PHMSA could not quantify cost savings but expects them to be small.
Standards access not freely posted online
ASME does not make the ASME B31.4‑2022 standard freely available online; interested parties must contact PHMSA's standards library at [email protected] to request access or obtain the standard from the publisher (see Sec. 195.3).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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