DOT Updates ASME Code

PHMSA 04-29 FR update ASME edition.pdf

On April 29, 2016 (81 FR 25613), the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) published a direct final rule in the federal register to incorporate by reference the most recent editions of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code in 49 CFR Parts 171, 173 & 178 of the Hazardous Material Regulations (HMRs). The purpose of this update is to enable non-specification (nurse tank) manufacturers and other DOT and UN specification packaging manufacturers to utilize current technology, materials, and practices to help maintain a high level of safety. PHMSA is replacing the ASME referenced standard (1998 Edition) with the new, current ASME standard (2015 Edition) for boiler and pressure vessels. PHMSA is also replacing the ASME 1998 Edition referenced standard of ASME’s Transportation Systems for Liquids and Slurries: Pressure Piping to the current 2012 Edition. This final rule is effective June 28, 2016 without further action, unless adverse comment is received by May 31, 2016. If adverse comment or notice of intent to file an adverse comment is received, PHMSA will publish a timely withdrawal of the rule in whole or in part in the Federal Register before June 13, 2016.