Welders Break Free: No More Limits on Pipeline Jobs
Published Date: 4/24/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
This new rule would let welders who pass special tests (called nondestructive testing) work on compressor station pipes and parts, removing old limits that kept them out. It affects welders and pipeline companies by making it easier and more flexible to get jobs done safely. Comments on this change are open until June 23, 2026, and it aims to save time without extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Nondestructive-Test Welders Allowed
The proposed rule would remove 49 C.F.R. §192.229(a) to allow welders or welding operators who are qualified by nondestructive testing to weld compressor station pipe and components. This change directly affects welders and pipeline employers by expanding who may perform these welding jobs and by removing the prior exclusion that dated back to Part 192's inception.
Pipeline Operators May Save Costs
PHMSA preliminarily determined the proposed change could reduce regulatory burdens and expects potential cost savings for gas pipeline facility operators. Williams Companies estimated a perceived cost savings of $1,000,000 from removing §192.229(a), though PHMSA said it could not verify that estimate and therefore did not adopt a specific quantified savings.
PHMSA Says Safety Not Reduced
PHMSA preliminarily determined that allowing welders qualified by nondestructive testing will not have an adverse effect on safety because modern nondestructive testing methods are equivalent to destructive testing for welder qualification. PHMSA cites advances in radiographic and ultrasonic inspection over the past 55 years to support that view.
No Significant Small-Entity Impact
PHMSA certifies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that the proposed rule, if finalized as proposed, will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The agency states the change is expected to reduce regulatory burdens and is not expected to impose additional burdens on operators.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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