The
Department of Transportation/Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
(PHMSA) issued ADB-10-06 on July 27, 2010 to gas and liquid pipeline operators
regarding the use of PEDs by pipeline employees who are performing operations
and maintenance activities. PHMSA reminds owners and operators of natural gas
and hazardous liquid pipeline facilities that there may be increased risks
associated with the use of PEDs by individuals performing activities that
affect pipeline operation or integrity. Pipeline operations and maintenance
tasks require a critical level of attention and skill, which may be compromised
by visual, manual, and cognitive distractions caused by the use of PEDs. Such
distractions may also hinder their prompt recognition and reaction to abnormal
operating conditions and emergencies.
Owners and operators of natural gas and hazardous liquid pipeline facilities
should integrate into their written procedures for operations and maintenance
appropriate controls regarding the personal use of PEDs by individuals
performing pipeline tasks that may affect the operation or integrity of a
pipeline. PHMSA is not discouraging the use of PEDs as a part of normal
business operations. Owners and operators should also provide guidance and
training for all personnel about the risks associated with the use of PEDs
while driving and while performing activities on behalf of the company if that
use poses a risk to safety.
For a copy of ADB-10-6 on Personal Electronic Device (PED) Related
Distractions, contact Jessica Roger.
