Gas pipeline operators no longer have to report minor incidents to federal regulators

Federal regulators have changed the rules for reporting incidents on gas pipelines. Operators no longer have to report minor events that do not cause significant damage or service interruption.

For years, gas pipeline operators had to report every small incident, even if it was quickly resolved and caused no real harm. This created a lot of paperwork for both the companies and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. The change means regulators can focus on more serious events, and companies can spend less time on administrative tasks for minor issues.