Frequently-Asked Question FAQ #31

FAQ-31: Notification of Changes to Assessment Schedules

Question: Section 192.909(b) requires that operators notify OPS of program changes that may modify the schedule for carrying out the program elements. Must operators notify OPS every time they change their assessment schedules?

Answer: No. The rule requires that operators notify OPS of any changes "that may substantially affect the program’s implementation or may significantly modify the program or schedule for carrying out the program elements" (emphasis added). Changes to the schedule for assessing individual pipeline segments that do not significantly affect program implementation or plans for carrying out program elements would not require a notification. Operators need not notify OPS of insignificant changes to their assessment schedules. Operators must document the basis for such changes (as required by 192.909(a)), and this documentation must be available for OPS review during integrity management inspections.