This information collection request would require pipeline operators to develop and implement public awareness programs. The public awareness programs should establish communications and provide information necessary to enhance public understanding of how pipelines function and the public's role in promoting pipeline safety. This mandatory, annual reporting and record keeping collection requires operators to submit their completed programs to PHMSA or, in the case of an intrastate pipeline facility operator, the appropriate State agency. The operator's program documentation and evaluation results must also be available for periodic review by appropriate regulatory agencies. This information will be used by PHMSA to evaluate compliance with pipeline safety regulations. The purpose of the collection is to prevent the risks caused by unintentional pipeline releases and their impact on the public and the environment.
The Pipeline Safety: Unusually Sensitive Areas for the Great Lakes, Coastal Beaches, and Certain Coastal Waters IFR amended the pipeline safety regulations to explicitly state that certain coastal waters, the Great Lakes, and coastal beaches are classified as unusually sensitive areas (USAs) for the purpose of compliance with pipeline safety regulations.
PHMSA estimates that the new USA definitions in the IFR will require 2 operators of rural gathering pipelines that are now regulated under Part 195.11 to establish recordkeeping programs to comply with public awareness program requirements. With each operator taking approximately 23 hours to develop and maintain the required records, this addition will result in an annual burden increase of 4 responses and 46 hours for this information collection.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.