scope:

This guide material is intended to assist operators with development of a Distribution Integrity Management Program (DIMP), and compliance with proposed Federal Regulations §§192.1005, 192.1007, and 192.1015 on DIMP. It provides operators with practices that may be considered as they develop and maintain a DIMP specific to their gas distribution systems.

Distribution pipeline systems and associated operating practices can vary widely. Examples of system differences include: materials used, age, manner of construction, operation and maintenance practices, and operating environments (natural and man-made). This guidance recognizes that there is wide diversity among distribution systems and is therefore flexible, allowing operators to identify considerations dealing with their unique threats and to select actions suited to their specific needs.

The options in this guidance are intended to provide the operator with a selection of possible choices to use in improving the integrity of its distribution system. Operators may not need to consider or perform every step presented. It is not intended that an operator evaluate every option or provide justification or reasons why options were not implemented.