PHMSA's Advisory Bulletin Targets Pipeline Safety Management Systems
'We are committed to carrying out President Trump's agenda to unleash American energy in all ways – big and small,' said Secretary Duffy. 'Enhancing pipeline safety through innovative management systems is just one way we can boost our energy security and lower costs for the American people.'
The announcement was accompanied by the release of PHMSA's Advisory Bulletin ADB-2025-01, reinforcing the agency's long-standing position that PSMS enhances pipeline safety, strengthens operational discipline, and supports a culture of continuous improvement. This effort is also backed by the National Transportation Safety Board ( NTSB), which has recommended implementation of PSMS for years.
'Safety Management Systems bring about a much-needed evolution of internal pipeline safety structures,' said PHMSA Acting Administrator Ben Kochman. 'We encourage all operators to fully embrace the continuous improvement and safety benefits that come with implementing a pipeline SMS.'
What Is a Pipeline Safety Management System (PSMS)?
A PSMS is a comprehensive, organization-wide framework designed to improve safety performance in pipeline operations. It provides a structured, proactive approach to identifying and managing safety risks, while fostering a culture of accountability and improvement.
PSMS is based on principles outlined within API RP 1173, which was developed by the API in collaboration with PHMSA, state regulators, and stakeholders after incidents like the 2010 oil release into the Kalamazoo River and the San Bruno gas explosion. These events highlighted a critical need for improved safety oversight and risk management within the energy industry.
Why is PSMS so Important Right Now?
While approximately 86% of the 2.3 million miles of U.S. gas distribution pipelines are now covered by some form of PSMS, many smaller operators, especially those serving fewer than 25,000 customers, have yet to begin implementation.
This is where the new bulletin matters. It urges operators, particularly smaller and mid-sized ones, to recognize the scalability of API RP 1173 and to take the next steps in building or maturing their safety management systems. The bulletin also aligns with Section 205 of the PIPES Act of 2020, which directs PHMSA and state authorities to promote and assess PSMS frameworks.
The API RP 1173 Framework: A Proven Path
API RP 1173 provides the basis for implementing an effective PSMS and focuses on building best practices to achieve the following:
Whether you're just beginning your safety management journey or looking to refine existing programs, the framework is scalable and adaptable to operators of all sizes.
The 10 Core Elements of PSMS
These elements are not just procedural, they represent an integrated safety program where each function supports and reinforces the others.
Worker Participation: A Critical Factor
Your front-line employees often hold the key to understanding and solving operational risks. That's why worker participation is a foundational element of a successful PSMS. Employees should be empowered to:
Open communication, transparency, and mutual trust between field personnel and leadership drive the success of any safety initiative, especially a program as critical as PSMS.
The Role of Safety Culture
PHMSA emphasizes that a strong safety culture is the core of effective pipeline safety management. This culture is built through everyday decisions, reinforced by leadership behavior, and sustained by organizational values that prioritize safety above compliance.
A mature safety culture helps eliminate complacency, reduce normalization of risk, and ensure that everyone, from the CEO to the field, feels responsible for safety.
How PSMS Affects Your Business
A robust PSMS program will produce the following:
Where to Begin
To get started, PHMSA recommends conducting a gap assessment to compare your current practices against those outlined within API RP 1173. From there, the following tasks can be prioritized and pursued:
Final Thoughts
Pipeline Safety Management Systems are not just about compliance, they're about leadership, accountability, and protecting what matters most. PHMSA's latest advisory bulletin, along with endorsements from DOT, the NTSB, and industry associations, makes it clear: adopting PSMS is a critical step for businesses looking to build resilience, reduce risk, and lead with safety.
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