Interior Updates Offshore Measurement Rules for Safety
Published Date: 6/10/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting August 10, 2026, oil, gas, and sulfur companies working on the Outer Continental Shelf must follow updated industry standards for measuring production and safety. These changes make sure everyone uses the latest, most accurate rules to keep operations safe and measurements reliable. This update affects companies by clarifying expectations and could save money by reducing errors and improving safety.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Must Comply with Updated OCS Standards
Starting August 10, 2026, operators, lessees, and other regulated parties working on the Outer Continental Shelf must follow the updated industry measurement and safety standards that the rule incorporates by reference into 30 CFR part 250. The incorporated documents have the force of law, meaning those companies must meet the cited editions and versions listed in the regulation.
No Additional Costs; Potential Savings and Safety Gains
BSEE reviewed the standards and states that using these editions "will not impose additional costs on the offshore oil and gas industry, because industry currently uses these standards." The rule also says the updated standards will reduce uncertainty in measurement and help improve operational safety, which could save companies money by reducing errors and safety incidents.
Large Update: 23 New, 40 Updated Standards
The rule incorporates by reference 23 standards not previously in the regulations and updates the incorporation of 40 existing standards developed by organizations such as API, AGA, GPA, and ASME. These additions and updates cover measurement technologies and safety design factors used in offshore oil, gas, and sulfur operations.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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