Rule2026-11648
Oil and Gas and Sulfur Operations in the Outer Continental Shelf-Documents Incorporated by Reference
Primary source
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Published
June 10, 2026
Effective
August 10, 2026
Issuing agencies
Interior DepartmentSafety and Environmental Enforcement Bureau
Abstract
The Department of the Interior (DOI or Department), through the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), is incorporating by reference a collection of production measurement industry standards and safety industry standards into its regulations governing oil, gas, and sulfur operations on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Incorporation of these documents by reference will provide industry with up-to-date standards for measuring oil and gas production volumes and enhancing safety. Compliance with these standards will reduce uncertainty in the measurement of oil and gas production and update the minimum standards in the safety regulations.
Full Text
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 91 Issue 111 (Wednesday, June 10, 2026)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 91, Number 111 (Wednesday, June 10, 2026)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 35304-35362]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2026-11648]
[[Page 35303]]
Vol. 91
Wednesday,
No. 111
June 10, 2026
Part II
Department of the Interior
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Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement
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30 CFR Part 250
Oil and Gas and Sulfur Operations in the Outer Continental Shelf--
Documents Incorporated by Reference; Final Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 91, No. 111 / Wednesday, June 10, 2026 /
Rules and Regulations
[[Page 35304]]
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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement
30 CFR Part 250
[Docket ID: BSEE-2022-0005 EEEE500000--256E1700D2--ET1SF0000.EAQ000]
RIN 1014--AA51
Oil and Gas and Sulfur Operations in the Outer Continental
Shelf--Documents Incorporated by Reference
AGENCY: Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, Interior.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: The Department of the Interior (DOI or Department), through
the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), is
incorporating by reference a collection of production measurement
industry standards and safety industry standards into its regulations
governing oil, gas, and sulfur operations on the Outer Continental
Shelf (OCS). Incorporation of these documents by reference will provide
industry with up-to-date standards for measuring oil and gas production
volumes and enhancing safety. Compliance with these standards will
reduce uncertainty in the measurement of oil and gas production and
update the minimum standards in the safety regulations.
DATES: This final rule is effective on August 10, 2026. The
incorporation by reference of certain material listed in this rule is
approved for use by the Director of the Federal Register beginning
``August 10, 2026.'' The incorporation by reference of certain other
material listed in this rule was approved for use by the Director of
the Federal Register as of July 15, 2019, February 26, 2021, and
October 29, 2024.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For technical or procedural questions
contact Alton Payne at 713-220-9204, or David Izon at 703-787 1706, or
by email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#542720353a303526302714362731317a333b22"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="47343326292326352334072534222269202831">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Executive Summary
This final rule incorporates a total of 23 standards that have not
previously been incorporated by reference into the regulations and
updates the incorporation of 40 standards already referenced in the
regulations. The updates to these 40 existing standards entail either
incorporating newer editions of, addenda to, amendments to, or
reaffirmations of the standards. The new standards and the updates to
existing standards were developed by the American Petroleum Institute
(API), the American Gas Association (AGA), GPA Midstream Association
(GPA), and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and address
oil and gas measurement technologies and safety design factors related
to oil and gas operations on the OCS. The documents that address oil
and gas measurement technologies reflect the latest measurement
standards, and their incorporation will provide industry with up-to-
date requirements for measurement technology. The safety-related
documents comprise four integrity management standards, two offshore
structure standards, two bolting/metallurgy standards, and one well
workover standard. The incorporation by reference (IBR) of these
standards will help ensure that BSEE's regulations reflect improvements
in operational safety and recognize advancements in science and
technology, including those advancements related to measurement
accuracy.
Table of Contents
I. Background
A. BSEE Statutory and Regulatory Authority and Responsibilities
B. Purpose and Summary of the Rule
C. Summary of Documents Incorporated by Reference
II. Discussion of Public Comments on the Proposed Rule
III. Section-by-Section Summary and Responses to Comments on the
Proposed Rule
IV. Derivation Table
V. Procedural Matters
I. Background
A. BSEE Statutory and Regulatory Authority and Responsibilities
BSEE derives its authority primarily from the Outer Continental
Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA), 43 U.S.C. 1331-1356a. OCSLA authorizes the
Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to lease the OCS for mineral
development and to regulate oil and gas exploration, development, and
production operations on the OCS. OCSLA also authorizes the Secretary
to regulate OCS energy-related activities involving sources other than
oil and gas. The Secretary has delegated authority to perform certain
of these functions to BSEE. To carry out its responsibilities, BSEE
regulates oil and gas exploration, development, and production
operations on the OCS. Among other purposes, regulations administered
by BSEE seek to prevent injury, loss of life, and damage to property,
natural resources, and the environment. The Department of the Interior
(Department) incorporates by reference in its regulations many oil and
gas industry standards to require compliance with those standards in
offshore operations. Detailed information concerning BSEE's regulations
and guidance to the offshore oil and gas industry may be found on
BSEE's website at <a href="https://www.bsee.gov/guidance-and-regulations">https://www.bsee.gov/guidance-and-regulations</a>.
B. Purpose and Summary of the Rule
BSEE uses standards (STD), specifications (Spec), recommended
practices (RP), manuals of petroleum measurement standards (MPMS),\1\
and other documents developed by standard development organizations
(SDOs) as a means of establishing requirements for activities on the
OCS. This practice, known as ``incorporation by reference,'' allows the
Department to incorporate the standards from technical documents into
the regulations so that the regulations reflect well accepted industry
standards without increasing the volume of the Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR). The Department currently incorporates by reference
125 industry standards into its offshore operating regulations, which
are administered by BSEE.
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\1\ The STD, Spec, RP, and MPMS acronyms are used only when
referencing a particular technical document in this rule's preamble.
Acronyms are not used when calling out the title of a technical
document in the regulatory text section at the conclusion of this
rule or in the list of technical documents in Section C below, which
summarizes the documents this rule is incorporating by reference.
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The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA)
requires BSEE to ``use technical standards that are developed or
adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies . . . to carry out
policy objectives or activities[,]'' including those on the OCS.
According to the relevant definitional guidance from the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB), standards include those developed by SDOs
that are currently incorporated into regulations administered by BSEE
(e.g., industry standards, codes, specifications, and RPs).
Where appropriate, the Department incorporates industry standards
into its regulations by reference without republishing the standards in
their entirety. The legal effect of incorporation by reference is that
the incorporated standards become regulatory requirements. This
incorporated material, like any other duly promulgated regulation, has
the force and effect of law. Operators, lessees, and other regulated
parties must comply with the documents that are incorporated by
reference in the regulations.
[[Page 35305]]
Incorporation by reference of a document or publication is limited
to the version of the document or publication cited in the regulations.
This means that newer editions, versions, amendments, or revisions to
documents that are already incorporated by reference in the regulations
are not part of the regulations until the Department promulgates a rule
in the Federal Register that incorporates the new, updated, or revised
version of the document.
Industry standards incorporated into the Department's regulations
are invaluable because they avoid the need to promulgate more detailed
regulations. Incorporating industry standards into the Department's
regulations also allows the Bureau's administration of those
regulations to evolve from a regulatory process that reacts to
inadequacies in OCS operations to one that instead follows a more
orderly process that recognizes technical innovation and progressive
industry ideas aimed at improving performance, safety, and
efficiencies.
BSEE continually participates in reviews, revisions, and updates of
standards with SDOs and determines whether new editions should be
incorporated into the Department's regulations. Incorporation of new
editions may be necessary because of changes in technology,
environmental concerns, individual incidents, or incident trends. Also,
BSEE may request an SDO to develop a new standard based on incident
analysis or due to the introduction of new technologies, such as deep-
water operations and floating production systems.
BSEE reviewed the requirements in the standards listed in the next
section to ensure that industry uses the best available and most
accurate measurement technologies. BSEE's review indicates that the
decision to use these standards will not impose additional costs on the
offshore oil and gas industry, because industry currently uses these
standards.
C. Summary of Documents Incorporated by Reference
The Office of the Federal Register's (OFR) regulations, at 1 CFR
part 51, govern how BSEE and other Federal agencies incorporate
documents by reference. Agencies may incorporate a document by
reference by publishing in the Federal Register the document title,
edition, date, author, publisher, identification number, and other
specified information. The preamble of the rule must contain a summary
of each document incorporated by reference, as well as discuss the ways
that the incorporated materials are reasonably available to interested
parties and how interested parties can obtain those materials. This
preamble also contains a summary of certain documents that have already
been incorporated by reference into the regulations but are affected by
this rulemaking. More specifically, this rulemaking will add express
references to these documents at certain regulations in 30 CFR part 250
to clarify their longstanding use and existing incorporation into the
regulations. The text immediately below summarizes the documents that
will be or have already been incorporated by reference in 30 CFR
250.198 and the changes to the regulatory text. Descriptions of the
standards described in this section are adopted or paraphrased from the
SDO publications. This section of the preamble concludes with a
discussion regarding the availability of the documents that are
incorporated by reference.
1. American Gas Association (AGA) Report No. 8, Part 1--Thermodynamic
Properties of Natural Gas and Related Gases Detail and Gross Equations
of State, Third Edition, April 2017
AGA Report No. 8, Part 1 presents information for the computation
of thermodynamic properties (e.g., compressibility factor, density, and
speed of sound) of natural gas and related gases with the DETAIL and
GROSS equations of state. Uncertainty estimations for different
compositions, pressures, and temperatures are given in Part 1. The
computations described in Part 1 are valid for single-phase gaseous
states only. BSEE is incorporating by reference this standard for the
first time into its regulations at Sec. 250.198(b)(2) and adding a
reference to this standard in Sec. 250.1203(b)(2)(ii).
2. AGA Report No. 8, Part 2--Thermodynamic Properties of Natural Gas
and Related Gases, GERG--2008 Equation of State, First Edition, April
2017
AGA Report No. 8, Part 2 presents information for computation of
thermodynamic properties, including compressibility factors, densities,
and speeds of sound, of natural gas and related gases, for gaseous
states, vapor-liquid equilibrium states, and liquid states, based on
the GERG-2008 equation of state. It also improves upon the performance
of the AGA 8 DETAIL equation for gas-phase properties, especially at
high pressures and low temperatures. The ranges of temperature,
pressure, and composition for which the GERG-2008 equation of state
applies are much wider than the AGA 8 DETAIL equation. Uncertainty
estimations for different compositions, pressures, and temperatures are
given. With the availability of vapor-liquid equilibrium and liquid
state calculations, Part 2 enables the calculation of dew points,
bubble points, and the critical point. BSEE is incorporating by
reference this standard for the first time into its regulations at
Sec. 250.198(b)(3) and adding a reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1203(b)(2)(iii).
3. AGA Report No. 9--Measurement of Gas by Multipath Ultrasonic Meters,
Fourth Edition, 2022
AGA Report No. 9 describes the optimum conditions and best
practices for multipath ultrasonic transit-time flow meters used for
the measurement of natural gas. Multipath ultrasonic meters have at
least two independent pairs of measuring transducers (acoustic paths).
Typical applications include measuring the flow of gas through
production facilities, transmission pipelines, storage facilities,
distribution systems, and large end-use customer meter sets. BSEE
currently requires multipath ultrasonic meters used for gas royalty
measurement to contain at least three independent pairs of measuring
transducers. The latest edition of AGA Report 9 allows the calibration
of ultrasonic meters with laboratory piping in lieu of shipping the
entire metering package to the calibration lab. BSEE is updating the
reference of AGA Report No. 9 currently in the regulations to the
Fourth edition of this standard. BSEE is also renumbering the
regulatory citation from Sec. 250.198(b)(2) to Sec. 250.198(b)(4),
this standard is referenced in Sec. 250.1203(b)(2)(iv)).
4. AGA Report No. 11--Measurement of Natural Gas by Coriolis Meter,
Second Edition, February 2013
AGA Report No. 11 was developed for the specification, calibration,
installation, operation, maintenance, and verification of Coriolis flow
meters and is limited to the measurement of single-phase natural gas,
consisting primarily of hydrocarbon gases mixed with other associated
gases usually known as ``diluents.'' Although Coriolis meters are used
to measure a broad range of compressible fluids, non-natural gas
applications are beyond the scope of this document. BSEE is
incorporating by reference this standard for the first time into the
regulations at Sec. 250.198(b)(6) and adding a reference to this
standard in Sec. 250.1203(b)(2)(vi).
[[Page 35306]]
5. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 3.1A--Standard
Practice for the Manual Gauging of Petroleum and Petroleum Products,
Third Edition, August 2013, d December 2018, Errata 1, January 2021
This document is applicable for gauging quantities of liquids
having Reid vapor pressures less than 103 kPa (15 psia). This document
describes the following procedures and influences for manual gauging:
<bullet> The procedures for manually gauging the liquid level of
petroleum and petroleum products in non-pressure fixed-roof, floating-
roof tanks and marine tank vessels;
<bullet> Procedures for manually gauging the level of free water
that may be found with the petroleum or petroleum products;
<bullet> Methods used to verify the length of gauge tapes under
field conditions and the influence of bob weights and temperature on
the gauge tape length; and
<bullet> Influences that may affect the position of gauging
reference point (either the datum plate or the reference gauge point).
Throughout this standards document, the term petroleum is used to
denote petroleum, petroleum products, or the liquids normally
associated with the petroleum industry. The Third Edition added
sections on gauging procedures, reading and recording gauges,
operational precautions, and system integrity. This document is
currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(10). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the Second to the Third
Edition, acknowledging the 2018 reaffirmation, renumbering the
regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(iii)(A), changing the title
of the standard from API MPMS Chapter 3, Section 1A to API MPMS Chapter
3.1A, and adding an express reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2)(iii) and (l)(4)(iii) to clarify the longstanding use of
this document already incorporated in the current regulations.
6. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 4--Proving
Systems, Section 1--Introduction, Third Edition, February 2005;
reaffirmed June 2014
Section 1, Proving Systems, is a general introduction to the
subject of proving. The requirements in Chapter 4 are based on
customary practices that evolved for crude oils and products covered by
API MPMS Ch. 11.1. This document is currently incorporated by reference
in Sec. 250.198(e)(12). BSEE is updating the incorporation by
reference in the regulations by renumbering the regulatory citation to
Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(iv)(A) and adding an express reference to this
standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(v) to clarify the longstanding use of
this document already incorporated in the current regulations.
7. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 4--Proving
Systems, Section 2--Displacement Provers, Third Edition, September
2003, Addendum February 2015, Reaffirmed December 2022
This chapter outlines the essential elements of displacement
provers that do, and do not, accumulate a minimum of 10,000 whole meter
pulses between detector switches, and provides design and installation
details for the types of displacement provers that are currently in
use. The provers discussed in this chapter are designed for proving
measurement devices under dynamic operating conditions with single-
phase liquid hydrocarbons. These provers consist of a pipe section
through which a displacer travels and activates detection devices
before stopping at the end of the run as the stream is diverted or
bypassed. This document is currently incorporated by reference in Sec.
250.198(e)(13). BSEE is updating the incorporation by reference in the
regulations by acknowledging the 2022 reaffirmation and 2015 Addendum,
renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(iv)(B), and
adding an express reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2)(vi) to clarify the longstanding use of this document
already incorporated in the current regulations.
8. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 4.5--Master
Meter Provers, Fourth Edition, June 2016
This standard covers the use of displacement, turbine, Coriolis,
and ultrasonic meters as master meters. The requirements in this
standard are intended for single-phase liquid hydrocarbons. Meter
proving requirements for other fluids should be appropriate for the
overall custody transfer accuracy and should be agreeable to the
parties involved. The Fourth Edition added sections on Master Meter
Factors for combined uncertainty, random uncertainty, and related
examples. This document does not cover master meters to be used for the
calibration of provers. For information concerning master meter
calibration of provers, see API MPMS Chapter 4.9.3. The title of this
standard has also changed from API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 5 to API
MPMS Chapter 4.5. This document is currently incorporated by reference
in Sec. 250.198(e)(15). BSEE is updating the incorporation by
reference from the Second to the Fourth Edition, acknowledging the 2022
reaffirmation, renumbering the citation and updating the reference to
this standard in the new Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(iv)(D) to reflect the new
name of the standard, and adding an express reference to this standard
in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(viii) to clarify the longstanding use of this
document already incorporated in the current regulations.
9. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 4--Proving
Systems, Section 7--Field Standard Test Measures, Third Edition, April
2009, Reaffirmed June 2014
This standard describes the essential elements of field standard
test measures by providing descriptions, construction requirements, as
well as inspection, handling, and calibration methods. Bottom-neck
scale test measures and prover tanks are not addressed in this
document. The scope of this standard is limited to the certification of
``delivered volumes'' of test measures. The Third Edition includes
information on calibration frequency of test measurements and an
example of a NIST report of calibration. This document is currently
incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(17). BSEE is updating the
incorporation by reference from the Second to the Third Edition,
acknowledging the 2014 reaffirmation, renumbering the regulatory
citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(iv)(F), and adding an express reference
to this standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(x) to clarify the longstanding
use of this document already incorporated in the current regulations.
10. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 4.8--
Operation of Proving Systems, Third Edition, July 2021
This standard provides information for operating meter provers on
single-phase liquid hydrocarbons. It is a reference manual for
operating proving systems. The requirements of this chapter are based
upon customary practices for single-phase liquids. The standard is
purposely written for hydrocarbons, but much of the information
contained may be applicable to other liquids. Specific requirements for
other liquids should be agreeable to parties involved. The Third
Edition added information on frequency of meter proving, proving
locations, types of provers, calibration frequency,
[[Page 35307]]
and proving concerns. The title of this standard also changed from API
MPMS Chapter 4, Section 8 to API MPMS Chapter 4.8. This document is
currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(18). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the First to the Third
Edition, renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(iv)(G), changing the title of the standard from API MPMS
Chapter 4, Section 8 to API MPMS Chapter 4.8, and updating the
references to this standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xi), (a)(3)(i),
(f)(1)(ii), and (g)(1) to reflect the new name of the standard.
11. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 4--Proving
Systems, Section 9--Methods of Calibration for Displacement and
Volumetric Tank Provers, Part 2--Determination of the Volume of
Displacement and Tank Provers by the Water-Draw Method of Calibration,
First Edition, December 2005, Reaffirmed July 2015
This standard covers all the procedures required to determine the
field data necessary to calculate a base prover volume, of either
displacement provers or volumetric tank provers, by the water-draw
method of calibration. The document will enable the user to perform all
the activities necessary to prepare the prover, conduct calibration
runs, and record all the required data necessary to calculate the base
volumes of displacement and tank provers. Evaluation of the results and
troubleshooting of many calibration problems are also discussed.
Detailed calculation procedures are not included in this standard. BSEE
will incorporate by reference this standard into the regulations for
the first time at Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(iv)(H) and add a reference to
this standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xii).
12. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 5--Metering,
Section 1--General Considerations for Measurement by Meters, Fourth
Edition, September 2005, Errata 1 June 2008, Errata 2 June 2011,
Reaffirmed December 2022
API MPMS Chapter 5 is a guide for the proper specification,
installation, and operation of meter runs designed to dynamically
measure liquid hydrocarbons so that acceptable accuracy, service life,
safety, reliability, and quality control can be achieved. API MPMS
Chapter 5 also includes information that will assist in troubleshooting
and improving the performance of meters. This document is currently
incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(19). BSEE is updating the
incorporation by reference in the regulations by acknowledging the 2022
reaffirmation and 2008/2011 Errata. The errata corrected printing
errors of references at the end of a paragraph, e.g., ``Paragraph
5.1.9.4.2, the reference at the end of the paragraph should read: (see
5.1.9.5).'' BSEE is also renumbering the citation to Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(v)(A), and adding an express reference to this standard
in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xiii) to clarify the longstanding use of this
document already incorporated in the current regulations.
13. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 5--Metering,
Section 3--Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons by Turbine Meters, Fifth
Edition, September 2005; Reaffirmed August 2014
Section 3 of API MPMS Chapter 5 covers the unique installation
requirements and performance characteristics of turbine meters in
liquid-hydrocarbon service. This document is currently incorporated by
reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(21). BSEE is updating the incorporation
by reference in the regulations by renumbering the regulatory citation
to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(v)(C) and adding an express reference to this
standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xv) to clarify the longstanding use of
this document already incorporated in the current regulations.
14. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 5--Metering,
Section 4--Accessory Equipment for Liquid Meters, Fourth Edition,
September 2005; Errata May 2015, Reaffirmed August 2015
Section 4 of API MPMS Chapter 5 describes the characteristics of
accessory equipment that may be used with meters in liquid hydrocarbon
service. Having a knowledge of these characteristics helps designers
and operators of meter installations provide satisfactory quantity
measurement results. Certain minimum requirements for devices that
monitor temperature, density, and pressure are discussed in this
section. Most system hardware, such as non-control valves, vents, and
manifolding, is not discussed in this section. API reaffirmed the
standard without substantive change in August 2015. This document is
currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(22). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference in the regulations by
acknowledging the 2015 reaffirmation, renumbering the regulatory
citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(v)(D), and adding an express reference
to this standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xvi) to clarify the
longstanding use of this document already incorporated in the current
regulations.
15. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 5--Metering,
Section 5--Fidelity and Security of Flow Measurement Pulsed-Data
Transmission Systems, Second Edition, August 2005; Reaffirmed August
2015
The recommendations set forth in this publication are concerned
only with the fidelity and security of pulsed-data, cabled transmission
systems between a flow meter or flow meter transducer and a remote
totalizer. API reaffirmed the standard without substantive change in
August 2015. This document is currently incorporated by reference in
Sec. 250.198(e)(23). BSEE is updating the incorporation by reference
in the regulations by acknowledging the 2015 reaffirmation, renumbering
the regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(v)(E), and adding an
express reference to this standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xvii) to
clarify the longstanding use of this document already incorporated in
the current regulations.
16. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 5.8--
Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons by Ultrasonic Flow Meters, Second
Edition, November 2011, Errata February 2014, Reaffirmed May 2017
This document defines the application criteria for Ultrasonic Flow
Meters (UFMs) and addresses the appropriate considerations regarding
the liquids to be measured. Also, this document addresses the
installation, operation, and maintenance of UFMs in liquid hydrocarbon
service. This document pertains only to spool type, two or more path
ultrasonic flow meters with permanently affixed transducer assemblies.
While this document was specifically written for custody transfer
measurement, other acceptable applications may include allocation
measurement, check meter measurement, and leak detection measurement.
The Second Edition updated the normative references and the sections on
meter performance, accuracy, and repeatability. The title of this
standard also changed from API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 8 to API MPMS
Chapter 5.8. This document is currently incorporated by reference in
Sec. 250.198(e)(25). BSEE is updating the incorporation by reference
from the First to the Second Edition, acknowledging the 2017
reaffirmation
[[Page 35308]]
and 2011 Errata, renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(v)(G), and updating the references to this standard in
Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xix) and (a)(3)(iii) to reflect the new name of
the standard.
17. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 6.1--Lease
Automatic Custody Transfer (LACT) Systems, Second Edition, May 1991,
Addendum 1 August 2020
This publication describes the metering function of a LACT unit.
LACT equipment includes a meter (either displacement or turbine), a
proving system (either fixed or portable), devices for determining
temperature and pressure and for sampling the liquid, and a means of
determining non-merchantable oil. Many of the aspects of the metering
function of a LACT unit are considered at length in other parts of this
manual and are referenced in paragraph 6.1.4. The title of this
standard changed from API MPMS Chapter 6, Section 1 to API MPMS Chapter
6.1, and the 2020 Addendum added information on determining normal
operating conditions. This document is currently incorporated by
reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(26). BSEE is updating the incorporation
by reference in the regulations by acknowledging the 2020 addendum,
renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(vi)(A),
updating the reference to this standard to reflect the new name of the
standard, and adding an express reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2)(xx) to clarify the longstanding use of this document
already incorporated in the current regulations.
18. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 7.1--
Temperature Determination-Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers, Second Edition,
August 2017
API MPMS Chapter 7.1 describes the methods, equipment, and
procedures for manually determining the temperature of liquid petroleum
and petroleum products under both static and dynamic conditions with
liquid-in-glass thermometers. API MPMS Chapter 7.1 is specific to
liquid-in-glass thermometers. Further, Chapter 7.1 discusses
temperature measurement requirements in general for custody transfer,
inventory control, and marine measurements. The actual method and
equipment selected for temperature determination are left to the
agreement of the parties involved. The manual method covers non-
pressurized tanks and non-pressurized marine vessels and gas-blanketed
tanks and gas-blanketed marine vessels. It does not cover hydrocarbons
under pressures in excess of 21 kPa (3 psi gauge) or cryogenic
temperature measurement, unless equipped with a thermowell.
API MPMS Chapters 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, and 7.4 supersede API MPMS Chapter
7, Temperature Determination, First Edition, June 2001, which is
currently incorporated by reference at Sec. 250.198(e)(29). API has
withdrawn API MPMS Chapter 7. BSEE is removing API MPMS Chapter 7 from
the regulations and incorporating by reference API MPMS Chapter 7.1 for
the first time into the regulations at Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(vii)(A).
BSEE is also adding an express reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2)(xxiii).
19. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 7.3--
Temperature Determination--Temperature Determination--Fixed Automatic
Tank Temperature Systems, Second Edition, October 2011, Reaffirmed
September 2021
API MPMS Chapter 7.3 describes the methods, equipment, and
procedures for determining the temperature of petroleum and petroleum
products under static conditions by the use of an automatic method.
Automatic temperature measurement is discussed for custody transfer and
inventory control for both onshore and marine measurement applications.
Temperatures of hydrocarbon liquids under static conditions can be
determined by measuring the temperature of the liquid at specific
locations. Examples of where static temperature determination is
required include storage tanks, ships, and barges. The application of
this standard is restricted to automatic methods for the determination
of temperature using fixed automatic tank thermometer (ATT) systems for
hydrocarbons having a Reid Vapor Pressure at or below 101.325 kPa
(14.696 psia).
As previously mentioned, API MPMS Chapters 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, and 7.4
supersede API MPMS Chapter 7, Temperature Determination, First Edition,
June 2001, which is currently incorporated by reference at Sec.
250.198(e)(29). API has withdrawn API MPMS Chapter 7. BSEE is removing
API MPMS Chapter 7 from the regulations and incorporating by reference
API MPMS Chapter 7.3 for the first time into the regulations at Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(vii)(B). BSEE is also adding an express reference to this
standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xxiv).
20. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 8.1--Standard
Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum Products, Sixth
Edition, September 2022
This practice covers procedures and equipment for manually
obtaining samples of liquid petroleum and petroleum products, crude
oils, and intermediate products from the sample point into the primary
container. Procedures are also included for the sampling of free water
and other heavy components associated with petroleum and petroleum
products. This practice also addresses the sampling of semi-liquid or
solid-state petroleum products. This practice provides additional
specific information about sample container selection, preparation, and
sample handling. This practice does not cover sampling of electrical
insulating oils and hydraulic fluids. If sampling is for the precise
determination of volatility, use Practice D5842 (API MPMS Chapter 8.4)
in conjunction with this practice. For sample mixing and handling,
refer to Practice D5854 (API MPMS Chapter 8.3). The title of this
section changed from API MPMS Chapter 8, Section 1 to API MPMS Chapter
8.1, and the Sixth Edition added sections on health and safety
precautions, sampling requirements, considerations, and procedures, as
well as instructions for special products. This document is currently
incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(30). BSEE is updating the
incorporation by reference in the regulations by updating the reference
from the Third Edition to the Sixth Edition, renumbering the regulatory
citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(viii)(A), updating the reference to
this standard to reflect the new name of the standard, and adding
express references to this standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xxv) and
Sec. 250.1202(k)(1) to clarify the longstanding use of this document
already incorporated in the current regulations.
21. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 8.2--Standard
Practice for Automatic Sampling of Liquid Petroleum and Petroleum
Products, Sixth Edition, September 2022
This document describes general procedures and equipment for
automatically obtaining samples of liquid petroleum and petroleum
products, crude oils, and intermediate products from the sample point
into the primary container. This practice also provides additional
specific information about sample container selection,
[[Page 35309]]
preparation, and sample handling. If sampling is for the precise
determination of volatility, use Practice D5842 (API MPMS Chapter 8.4)
in conjunction with this practice. For sample mixing and handling,
refer to Practice D5854 (API MPMS Chapter 8.3). This practice does not
cover sampling of electrical insulating oils and hydraulic fluids.
Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
with the standard. This standard was developed in accordance with
internationally recognized principles on standardization established in
the Decision on Principles for the Development of International
Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade
Organization Technical Barriers to Trade Committee. The title of this
standard changed from API MPMS Chapter 8, Section 2 to API MPMS Chapter
8.2. The Sixth Edition added representative sampling components and
performance criteria. This document is currently incorporated by
reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(31). BSEE is updating the incorporation
by reference in the regulations by updating the reference from the
Second Edition to the Sixth Edition, renumbering the regulatory
citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(viii)(B), updating the reference to
this standard to reflect the new name of the standard, and adding
express references to this standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xxvi),
Sec. 250.1202(b)(4)(i), and Sec. 250.1202(k)(1) to clarify the
longstanding use of this document already incorporated in the current
regulations.
22. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 8.3--Standard
Practice for Mixing and Handling of Liquid Samples of Petroleum and
Petroleum Products, Second Edition, September 2019
This practice covers handling, mixing, and conditioning procedures
that are required to ensure that a representative sample of the liquid
petroleum or petroleum product is delivered from the primary sample
container or other container or both into the analytical apparatus or
into intermediate containers. Appendix X1 in this document details the
background information on the development of Table 1 used in
performance testing. Appendix X2 provides guidance in the acceptance
testing for water in crude oil. Appendix X3 provides a guide for
materials of sample containers. Appendix X4 provides a summary of
recommended mixing procedures. Appendix X5 provides a flow chart for
sample container/mixing system acceptance test. The Second Edition
added text on labeling, transport, mixing, sample integrity, storage,
preservation, and audit. BSEE is incorporating by reference this
standard for the first time into the regulations at Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(viii)(C) and adding a reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2)(xxvii).
23. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 9.1--Standard
Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API Gravity of Crude
Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer Method, Third
Edition, December 2012, Reaffirmed May 2017
This test method covers the laboratory determination of the
density, relative density, or API gravity of crude petroleum, petroleum
products, or mixtures of petroleum and nonpetroleum products normally
handled as liquids and having a Reid vapor pressure of 101.325 kPa
(14.696 psi) or less. The relevant test method involves using a glass
hydrometer in conjunction with a series of calculations. Values are
determined at existing temperatures and corrected to 15[deg]C or 60
[deg]F by means of a series of calculations and international standard
tables. The title of this standard changed from API MPMS Chapter 9,
Section 1 to API MPMS Chapter 9.1, and the newer (i.e., third) edition
includes information on procedures, reporting, and precision and bias.
The Third Edition was reaffirmed in May 2017. This document is
currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(32). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the 2002 Second Edition to
the 2012 Third Edition, acknowledging the 2017 reaffirmation,
renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(ix)(A), and
adding an express reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2)(xxviii) to clarify the longstanding use of this document
already incorporated in the current regulations.
24. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 9.2--Standard
Test Method for Density or Relative Density of Light Hydrocarbons by
Pressure Hydrometer, Fourth Edition, November 2022
This test method covers the determination of the density or
relative density of light hydrocarbons including liquefied petroleum
gases (LPG) having Reid vapor pressures exceeding 101.325 kPa (14.696
psi). The prescribed apparatus should not be used for materials having
vapor pressures higher than 1.4 MPa (200 psi) at the test temperature.
This pressure limit is dictated by the type of equipment. Higher
pressures can apply to other equipment designs. The initial pressure
hydrometer readings obtained are uncorrected hydrometer readings and
not density measurements. Readings are measured on a hydrometer at
either the reference temperature or at another convenient temperature,
and readings are corrected for the meniscus effect, the thermal glass
expansion effect, alternate calibration temperature effects, and to the
reference temperature by means of calculations and Adjunct to D1250
Guide for Petroleum Measurement Tables (API MPMS Chapter 11.1) or API
MPMS Chapter 11.2.4 (GPA TP-27), as applicable. The Fourth Edition
includes distinguishing mandatory information and amends the referenced
documents section, and the title of this standard changed from API MPMS
Chapter 9, Section 2 to API MPMS Chapter 9.2. This document is
currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(33). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the 2003 Second Edition to
the 2022 Fourth Edition, renumbering the regulatory citation and
updating the reference to this standard in the new Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(ix)(B) to reflect the new name of the standard, and
adding an express reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2)(xxix) to clarify the longstanding use of this document
already incorporated in the current regulations.
25. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 9.4--
Continuous Density Measurement Under Dynamic (Flowing) Conditions,
First Edition, January 2018
This document covers the continuous on-line determination and
application of flowing liquid densities for custody transfer. This
document covers liquid and dense phase fluids, including natural gas
liquids, refined products, chemicals, crude oil, and other liquid
products commonly encountered in the petroleum industry. This document
does not apply to the density measurement of natural gas, liquified
natural gas, multiphase mixtures, semi-solid liquids such as asphalt,
and solids such as coke and slurries. This standard also provides
criteria and procedures for designing, installing, operating, and
proving continuous on-line density measurement systems for custody
transfer. This standard also discusses the different levels and
requirements of accuracy for various applications. The API withdrew API
MPMS Chapter 14--Natural Gas Fluids Measurement, Section 6--Continuous
Density Measurement, and superseded it with
[[Page 35310]]
API MPMS Chapter 9.4. Thus, as described in the proposed rule, BSEE is
removing API MPMS Chapter 14, Section 6 from existing Sec.
250.198(e)(51). BSEE is also incorporating by reference API MPMS
Chapter 9.4 for the first time into the regulations at Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(ix)(C) and adding a reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2)(xxx).
26. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 10.2--
Standard Test Method for Water in Crude Oil by Distillation, Fifth
Edition, December 2022
This test method covers the determination of water in crude oil by
distillation. The values stated in the International System of Units
(SI units) are to be regarded as standard. No other units of
measurement are included in this standard. The Fifth Edition
accumulated references to ASTM documents and API documents associated
terms and terminology along with related text. The title of this
standard also changed from API MPMS Chapter 10, Section 2 to API MPMS
Chapter 10.2. This document is currently incorporated by reference in
Sec. 250.198(e)(35). BSEE is updating the incorporation by reference
from the 2007 Second Edition to the 2022 Fifth Edition, renumbering the
regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1), updating the reference to
this standard in the new Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(x)(B) to reflect the new
name of the standard, and adding an express reference to this standard
in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xxxii) to clarify the longstanding use of this
document already incorporated in the current regulations.
27. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 10.3--
Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by the
Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure), Fifth Edition, December 2022
This test method describes the laboratory determination of water
and sediment in crude oils by means of the centrifuge procedure. This
centrifuge method for determining water and sediment in crude oils is
not entirely satisfactory. The amount of water detected is almost
always lower than the actual water content. When a highly accurate
value is required, the revised procedures for water by distillation,
Test Method D4006 (API MPMS Chapter 10.2) (Note 1), and sediment by
extraction, Test Method D473 (API MPMS Chapter 10.1), must be used.
Test Method D4006 (API MPMS Chapter 10.2) has been determined to be the
preferred and most accurate method for the determination of water. The
values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The Fifth
Edition provides additional references to ASTM documents and API
documents, mandatory and nonmandatory documents, test methods and
associated terms and terminology, and additional information on
constraints. The title of this standard also changed from API MPMS
Chapter 10, Section 3 to API MPMS Chapter 10.3. This document is
currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(36). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the 2008 Third Edition to
the 2022 Fifth Edition, renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(x)(C), updating the reference to this standard to reflect
the new name of the standard, and adding an express reference to this
standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xxxiii) to clarify the longstanding
use of this document already incorporated in the current regulations.
28. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 10.4--
Determination of Water and/or Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge
Method (Field Procedure), Fifth Edition, August 2020
This document describes the field centrifuge method for determining
both sediment and water or sediment only in crude oil. This method may
not always produce the most accurate results, but it is considered the
most practical method for field determination of sediment and water.
This method may also be used for field determination of sediment. When
a higher degree of accuracy is required, the laboratory procedure
described in API MPMS Ch. 10.3, Standard Test Method for Water and
Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure)
(ASTM D4007); API MPMS Chapter 10.2, Standard Test Method for Water in
Crude Oil by Distillation (ASTM D4006); or API MPMS Chapter 10.9,
Standard Test Method for Water in Crude Oils by Coulometric Karl
Fischer Titration (ASTM D4928); and the procedure described in API MPMS
Chapter 10.1, Standard Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oils and Fuel
Oils by the Extraction Method (ASTM D473) should be used. The Fifth
Edition amended the text concerning procedures, calculations, and
reporting related to centrifuge tube spin calculations, test
procedures, and test reading requirements. The title of this standard
also changed from API MPMS Chapter 10, Section 4 to API MPMS Chapter
10.4. This document is currently incorporated by reference in Sec.
250.198(e)(37). BSEE is updating the incorporation by reference from
the 1999 Third Edition to the 2020 Fifth Edition, renumbering the
regulatory citation and updating the reference to this standard to
reflect the new name in the new Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(x)(D), and adding
an express reference to this standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xxxiv) to
clarify the longstanding use of this document already incorporated in
the current regulations.
29. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 10.9--
Standard Test Method for Water in Crude Oils by Coulometric Karl
Fischer Titration, Third Edition, May 2013, Reaffirmed June 2018
This test method covers the determination of water in the range
from 0.02 to 5.00 mass or volume % in crude oils. Mercaptan (RSH) and
sulfide (S- or H2S) as sulfur are known to interfere with this test
method, but at levels of less than 500 [mu]/g [ppm(m)], the
interference from these compounds is insignificant. This test method
can be used to determine water in the 0.005 to 0.02 mass % range, but
the effects of the mercaptan and sulfide interference at these levels
has not been determined. For the range 0.005 to 0.02 mass %, there is
no precision or bias statement. This test method is intended for use
with standard commercially available coulometric Karl Fischer reagent.
The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other
units of measurement are included in this standard. The Third Edition
was updated with modern terminology to bring content into compliance
with existing practices. The title of this standard also changed from
API MPMS Chapter 10, Section 9 to API MPMS Chapter 10.9. This document
is currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(38). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the 2002 Second Edition to
the 2013 Third Edition, renumbering the regulatory citation and
updating the reference to this standard in the new Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(x)(E) to reflect the new name of the standard, and adding
an express reference to this standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xxxv) to
clarify the longstanding use of this document already incorporated in
the current regulations.
[[Page 35311]]
30. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 11--Physical
Properties Data, Section 1--Temperature and Pressure Volume Correction
Factors for Generalized Crude Oils, Refined Products, and Lubricating
Oils, 2004 Edition, May 2004, Addendum 1 September 2007, Addendum 2 May
2019
This standard provides the algorithm and implementation procedure
for the correction of temperature and pressure effects on density and
volume of liquid hydrocarbons which fall within the categories of crude
oil, refined products, or lubricating oils. Natural gas liquids and
liquid petroleum gases are excluded from consideration in this
standard. The combination of density and volume correction factors for
both temperature and pressure are collectively referred to in this
standard as a Correction for Temperature and Pressure of a Liquid. The
temperature portion of this correction is termed the Correction for the
Effect of Temperature on Liquid, also historically known as Volume
Correction Factor. The pressure portion is termed the Correction for
the Effect of Pressure on Liquid. This standard includes a 2019
Addendum that added 33 pages concerning compressibility, volume
corrections, new terms, gauge pressure, and procedures. This document
is currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(41). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference by acknowledging the 2019
Addendum, renumbering the regulatory citation of the incorporation by
reference to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(xi)(B), and maintaining the references
to this standard at Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xxxvi), (a)(3)(iv), (g)(2),
and (l)(4)(v).
31. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 12.2--
Calculation of Petroleum Quantities Using Dynamic Measurement Methods
and Volumetric Correction Factors, Second Edition, July 2021
API MPMS Chapter 12.2 (2021) provides standardized calculation
methods for the quantification of liquids, regardless of the point of
origin or destination or the units of measure required by governmental
customs or statute. The criteria contained in this document allow
different entities using various computer languages on different
computer hardware (or manual calculations) to arrive at output results
within a defined tolerance within this document, using the same input
data. The document specifies the equations for computing correction
factors, rules for rounding, calculation sequence, and discrimination
levels to be employed in the calculations. The intent of this document
is to serve as a rigorous standard regarding the quantification of
petroleum quantities. This document also covers multiple calculations
as required by dynamic, online, integrated, continuous flow
measurement.
BSEE had proposed to remove API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, parts
1, 2, and 3 from the regulations since API MPMS Chapter 12.2 supersedes
these three standards and API withdrew these three standards. However,
as discussed later when discussing the summary of comments related to
API MPMS Chapter 12.2, BSEE is delaying the compliance date of API MPMS
Chapter 12.2 as it pertains to existing measurement systems on the OCS
to August 11, 2031. During this time, measurement systems on the OCS in
existence prior to August 10, 2026 may comply with API MPMS Chapter 12,
Section 2, Part 1, API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, Part 2, and API MPMS
Chapter 12, Section 2, Part 3 in lieu of API MPMS Chapter 12.2, but
must comply with API MPMS Chapter 12.2 no later than August 11, 2031.
Therefore, BSEE will not remove these standards from the regulations
and will renumber them to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(xii)(A) to (C). However,
measurement systems on the OCS in existence prior to August 10, 2026
must be in compliance with API MPMS Chapter 12.2 by August 11, 2031.
All new measurement systems approved after August 10, 2026 must comply
with API MPMS Chapter 12.2. BSEE is incorporating by reference API MPMS
Chapter 12.2 for the first time into the regulations at Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(xii)(E) and adding a reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2)(xxxviii).
32. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 14.1--
Collecting and Handling of Natural Gas Samples for Analysis by Gas
Chromatography, Eighth Edition, September 2022
This standard provides comprehensive guidelines and procedures for
properly extracting, collecting, conditioning, and handling a sample
from a flowing natural gas stream at or above its dew point temperature
and that represents the composition of the vapor-phase portion of the
source fluid. This standard considers spot, composite, continuous,
online, and mobile sampling systems and does not include sampling of
liquid or multiphase streams. BSEE is incorporating by reference the
Eighth Edition of API MPMS Chapter 14.1 for the first time into the
regulations at Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(xiii)(A) and adding a reference to
this standard in Sec. 250.1203(b)(2)(x).
33. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 14.3.1--
Orifice Metering of Natural Gas and Other Related Hydrocarbon Fluids--
Concentric, Square-Edged Orifice Meters, Part 1: General Equations and
Uncertainty Guidelines, Fourth Edition, September 2012, Errata July
2013, Reaffirmed September 2017
This standard provides a single reference for engineering
equations, uncertainty, estimations, construction, and installation
requirements, and standardized implementation recommendations for the
calculation of flow rate through concentric, square-edged, flange-
tapped orifice meters. Both U.S. customary and SI units are included.
The standard is organized into four parts. Parts 1, 2, and 4 apply to
the measurement of any Newtonian fluid in the petroleum and chemical
industries. Part 3 focuses on the application of parts 1, 2, and 4 to
the measurement of natural gas. The Fourth Edition made changes to
equations to bring them into conformance with more recent practice. An
Errata was made in 2013 and the standard was reaffirmed in 2017. The
title of this standard also changed from API MPMS Chapter 14, Section
3, Part 1 to API MPMS Chapter 14.3.1. BSEE is updating the
incorporation by reference from the 1990 Third Edition to the 2012
Fourth Edition, acknowledging the 2013 Errata and 2017 reaffirmation,
renumbering the regulatory citation and updating the reference to this
standard in the new Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(xiii)(B) to reflect the new
name of the standard, and adding an express reference to this standard
in Sec. 250.1203(b)(2)(xi) to clarify the longstanding use of this
document already incorporated in the current regulations.
34. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 14.3.2--
Orifice Metering of Natural Gas and Other Related Hydrocarbon Fluids--
Concentric, Square-Edged Orifice Meters, Part 2: Specification and
Installation Requirements, Fifth Edition, March 2016, Errata 1, March
2017, Errata 2, January 2019
This publication outlines the specification and installation
requirements for the measurement of single-phase, homogenous Newtonian
fluids using concentric, square-edged, flange-tapped orifice meters. It
provides specifications for the construction and installation of
orifice plates, meter tubes, and associated fittings when designing
metering facilities using orifice meters. The Fifth Edition made
[[Page 35312]]
changes concerning normative references, specifications,
considerations, and installation requirements. Two Errata were made in
2017 and in 2019, and the title of this standard also changed from API
MPMS Chapter 14, Section 3, Part 2 to API MPMS Chapter 14.3.2. This
document is currently incorporated by reference in Sec.
250.198(e)(48). BSEE is updating the incorporation by reference from
the 2000 Fourth Edition to the 2016 Fifth Edition, acknowledging the
2017/2019 Errata, renumbering the regulatory citation and updating the
reference to this standard in the new Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(xiii)(C) to
reflect the new name of the standard, and adding an express reference
to this standard in Sec. 250.1203(b)(2)(xii) to clarify the
longstanding use of this document already incorporated in the current
regulations.
35. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 14.3.3--
Orifice Metering of Natural Gas and Other Related Hydrocarbon Fluids--
Concentric Square-Edged Orifice Meters, Part 3: Natural Gas
Applications, Fourth Edition, November 2013, Reaffirmed June 2021
This standard was developed as an application guide for the
calculation of natural gas flow through a flange-tapped, concentric
orifice meter, using the U.S. customary inch-pound system of units. It
also provides practical guidelines for applying MPMS 14.3.1 and MPMS
14.3.2 to the measurement of natural gas. The Fourth Edition made
changes in the applicability of the use of standard conditions and
added functionality to the flow equations. The title of this standard
changed from API MPMS Chapter 14, Section 3, Part 3 to API MPMS Chapter
14.3.3. API MPMS Chapter 14.3.3 was reaffirmed in 2021. This document
is currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(49). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the Third Edition to the
2013 Fourth Edition, acknowledging the 2021 reaffirmation, renumbering
the regulatory citation and updating the reference to this standard in
the new Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(xiii)(D) to reflect the new name of the
standard, and adding an express reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1203(b)(2)(xiii) to clarify the longstanding use of this document
already incorporated in the current regulations.
36. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 20--
Allocation Measurement, Section 1-Allocation Measurement, First
Edition, September 1993, Addendum 1 January 2013, Addendum 2 November
2016, Addendum 3 December 2017, Reaffirmed June 2024
This standard provides design and operating guidelines for liquid
and gas allocation measurement systems. It includes recommendations for
metering, static measurement, sampling, proving, calibrating, and
calculating procedures. API MPMS Chapter 20.3, First Edition, which
BSEE is incorporating by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(1), supersedes
certain sections of API MPMS Chapter 20, Section 1, including sections
1.16.1, 1.16.3, 1.16.3.1, 1.16.3.2, and 1.16.3.3. An addendum was made
to the First Edition in 2013, 2016, and 2017, which addressed
measurement, calibration, equipment, and testing. The First Edition was
reaffirmed in June 2024. This document is currently incorporated by
reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(53). BSEE is updating the incorporation
by reference by acknowledging the addenda and reaffirmation,
renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(xiv)(A),
excluding sections 1.16.1, 1.16.3, 1.16.3.1, 1.16.3.2, and 1.16.3.3 of
the First Edition from the incorporation by reference, and adding an
express reference to this standard in Sec. Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xxxix)
and 250.1203(b)(2)(xvi) to clarify the longstanding use of this
document already incorporated in the current regulations.
37. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 20.3--
Measurement of Multiphase Flow, First Edition January 2013; Reaffirmed
October 2018
This publication addresses multiphase flow measurement in the
production environment, upstream of the custody transfer (single-phase)
measurement point, where allocation measurement for onshore, offshore,
or subsea is applied. For other multiphase flow measurement
applications such as reservoir management, well tests, and flow
assurance, the standard can be used as a reference or guide. However,
the focus of this standard is on those applications where the accuracy
of multiphase flow measurement for allocation systems is required. This
document refers to existing standards and RPs to supplement the
guidance it provides in this subject area. The document addresses
principles used in multiphase flow measurement, multiphase metering
types and classifications, assessment of expected performance, and in
selecting and operating multiphase measurement systems. It addresses
operational requirements or constraints, including expectations for
flow meter acceptance, calibration criteria, flow loop and in situ
verifications, and other guidance specific to different multiphase flow
metering applications. The document does not address specific meter
configurations.
API MPMS Chapter 20.3 supersedes API RP 86, Recommended Practice
for Measurement of Multiphase Flow, September 2005, located in the
existing regulations at Sec. 250.198(e)(76). API RP 86 was a document
that provided best practices as of 2005. API MPMS Chapter 20.3 provides
advances in multiphase flow measurement. BSEE is removing API RP 86
from the regulations and incorporating by reference API MPMS Chapter
20.3 for the first time into the regulations at Sec.
250.198(e)(1)(xiv)(B) and adding a reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1203(b)(2)(xvii).
38. API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards Chapter 20.5--
Recommended Practice for Application of Production Well Testing in
Measurement and Allocation, First Edition, December 2017; Errata 1,
August 2023
This publication establishes a framework to conduct and apply
production well testing for well rate determination in measurement and
allocation. Production well testing addressed in this document refers
to measurement of gas, oil, and water quantities from a single well
during a specified length of time under controlled operational
conditions. The intent of this document is to provide operators with a
consistent and transparent approach for conducting, applying, and
managing production well testing within an upstream measurement and
allocation system. It is not intended to prescribe a particular
production well test method, or particular application of production
well test data use in allocation. This document provides
recommendations and guidelines for the application of production well
testing in production measurement and allocation. The recommendations
and guidelines apply to conducting a production well test, calculating
production well test volumes and rates, and the application of
production well test data for use in measurement and allocation. This
includes production well testing preparation, initiation, measurement,
validation, and volume and rate
[[Page 35313]]
calculations for separator, multiphase flow meter, and tank production
well test systems. Additionally, this document addresses the proration
of production well test results for use in allocation, the application
of production well tests for validation and update of well flow models
and virtual flow metering, and the adjustment of gas well continuous
measurement results with production well test data. This document also
provides recommendations and guidelines for the application of well
flow modeling and virtual flow metering in production measurement and
allocation. This document supersedes sections 1.7.2.2.2, 1.11.1,
1.16.3.2, 1.16.3.3, 1.16.5.1, and Appendix J of API MPMS Chapter 20.1.
BSEE is incorporating by reference this standard for the first time
into the regulations at Sec. 250.198(e)(1)(xiv)(C) and adding a
reference to this standard in Sec. 250.1204(b)(1).
39. API Recommended Practice 2A-WSD--Planning, Designing, and
Constructing Fixed Offshore Platforms--Working Stress Design, Twenty-
second Edition, November 2014; Reaffirmed September 2020
This RP is based on global industry best practices and serves as a
guide for those who are concerned with the design and construction of
new fixed offshore platforms and for the relocation of existing
platforms used for the drilling, development, production, and storage
of hydrocarbons in offshore areas. Specific guidance for hurricane
conditions in U.S. offshore areas, previously provided in API RP 2A-
WSD, Twenty First Edition, Section 2, is now provided in API RP 2MET.
Specific guidance for earthquake loading in U.S. offshore areas,
previously provided in the API RP 2A-WSD, Twenty First Edition, Section
2, is now provided in API 2EQ. Specific guidance for soil and
foundation considerations in offshore areas, previously provided in API
RP 2A-WSD, Twenty First Edition, Section 6, is now provided in API RP
2GEO. Specific guidance for the evaluation of structural damage, above
and below water structural inspection, fitness-for-purpose assessment,
risk reduction and mitigation planning, plus the process of
decommissioning has been removed and is now provided in API RP 2SIM.
Specific guidance for fire and blast loading, previously provided for
in the API RP 2A-WSD, Twenty First Edition, Section 18, is now provided
for in API 2FB. The Twenty Second Edition was reaffirmed in 2020. This
document is currently incorporated by reference in Sec.
250.198(e)(57). BSEE is updating the incorporation by reference from
the 2000 Twenty First Edition to the 2014 Twenty Second Edition,
acknowledging the 2020 reaffirmation, renumbering the regulatory
citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(A), updating the references to this
standard in the existing regulations at Sec. Sec. 250.901(a)(4) and
(d)(3), 250.908(a), and 250.920(f).
40. API Recommended Practice 2FPS--Planning, Designing, and
Constructing Floating Production Systems, Second Edition, October 2011;
Reaffirmed September 2020
This document provides requirements and guidance for the structural
design and/or assessment of floating offshore platforms used by the
petroleum and natural gas industries to support the following
functions: production, storage and/or offloading, and drilling. The
Second Edition made changes to bring the document into conformance with
more recent practice, namely adding as normative references five API
documents (API Recommended Practice 2A-WSD, API Bulletin 2INT-MET, API
Recommended Practice 2SK, API Recommended Practice 14J, 75L) and four
ISO documents (13702, 19900-2002, 19901-1, 19902-2007). This document
is currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(59). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the 2001 First Edition to
the 2011 Second Edition, renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec.
250.198(e)(2)(i)(D), and updating the reference of this standard in the
existing regulations at Sec. 250.901(a)(5) and (d)(15).
41. API Recommended Practice 2FSIM--Floating Systems Integrity
Management, First Edition, September 2019
This RP provides guidance for floating system integrity management
of floating production systems, which include tension leg platforms,
used by the petroleum and natural gas industries to support drilling,
production, storage, and/or offloading operations. Floating production
systems described in this document are governed by local regulatory
requirements and recognized classification society (RCS) rules, if
classed. No specific regulatory compliance or RCS requirements are
restated in the document. The requirements of this document do not
apply to mobile offshore drilling units or to mobile offshore units
used in support of construction operations. This document does not
address dynamic positioning, moorings, or risers. BSEE is incorporating
by reference for the first time API RP 2FSIM into the regulations at
Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(E) and adding a reference to this standard in
Sec. 250.901(a)(22) and (d)(21).
42. ANSI/API Recommended Practice 2GEO--Geotechnical and Foundation
Design Considerations; First Edition, April 2011, Addendum 1, October
2014; Reaffirmed, January 2021
This document contains requirements and recommendations for those
aspects of geoscience and foundation engineering that are applicable to
a broad range of offshore structures, rather than to a particular
structure type. Such aspects are site characterization, soil and rock
characterization, design and installation of foundations supported by
the seabed (shallow foundations), identification of hazards, design of
pile foundations, and soil-structure interaction for risers, flowlines,
and auxiliary subsea structures. Aspects of soil mechanics and
foundation engineering are not addressed by the document. BSEE is
incorporating by reference for the first time API RP 2GEO, including
all addenda and amendments through the January 2021 reaffirmation, into
the regulations at Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(F) and adding a reference to
this standard in Sec. 250.901(a)(23) and (d)(22).
43. ANSI/API Recommended Practice 2MET--Derivation of Metocean Design
and Operating Conditions; Second Edition, January 2021
This standard gives requirements for the determination and use of
meteorological and oceanographic (metocean) conditions for the design,
construction, and operation of offshore structures of all types used in
the petroleum, natural gas, and renewable energy industries. The
requirements are divided into two broad types: those that relate to the
determination of environmental conditions in general, together with the
metocean parameters that are required to adequately describe them; and
those that relate to the characterization and use of metocean
parameters for the design, construction, or operation of offshore
structures. BSEE is incorporating by reference for the first time API
RP 2MET into the regulations at Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(H) and adding a
reference to this standard in Sec. 250.901(a)(24) and (d)(23).
44. API Recommended Practice 2MIM--Mooring Integrity Management; First
Edition, September 2019
This RP provides guidance for the integrity management of mooring
systems connected to a permanent floating production system used for
the drilling, development, production, and/or storage of hydrocarbons
in offshore
[[Page 35314]]
areas. The scope of this RP extends from the anchor to the connection
to the floating unit (e.g., chain stopper) and includes components
critical to the mooring system (e.g., turret bearings, fairleads, chain
stoppers, anchors, suction piles). BSEE is incorporating by reference
for the first time API RP 2MIM into the regulations at Sec.
250.198(e)(2)(i)(I) and adding a reference to this standard in Sec.
250.901(a)(25) and (d)(25).
45. API Recommended Practice 2RIM--Integrity Management of Risers From
Floating Production Systems; First Edition, September 2019
This RP provides guidance for the integrity management of risers
connected to a permanent floating production system used for the
drilling, development, production, and storage of hydrocarbons in
offshore areas. A riser is typically part of a larger subsea system
extending from a wellhead, tree, manifold, template, or other structure
on the seabed, to a boarding valve or pig trap on the host platform's
topsides. This document addresses the integrity management of the
dynamic portion of the riser system. For the purposes of this document,
a riser has a top boundary that is somewhere at or above the point
where it transfers load to the platform structure, and it has a lower
boundary where it transfers load into a foundation, which could be a
wellhead, pipeline, or subsea structure. For a top-tensioned riser, the
top boundary will typically be the tensioner system hang-off point, and
the bottom boundary will be the wellhead. For a steel catenary riser
(SCR), the top boundary will typically be the stress joint or flexible
joint. Unusual configurations, such as pull-tube steel catenary risers,
merit special consideration. The top boundaries of a flexible or hybrid
riser are typically a flanged connection to the riser end fitting at
the top of an I-tube or J-tube, and a bend stiffener at the bottom of
an I-tube or J-tube. The integrity management of the structural support
for a riser on the host platform is in the scope of API RP 2FSIM,
although some hybrid configurations, such as pull tubes, can require
overlapping riser and structural integrity management. For risers
structurally connected to the platform below the topsides, hull piping
can be structurally clamped to the hull up to a boarding valve or pig
launcher at the topsides. BSEE is incorporating by reference the First
Edition of API RP 2RIM for the first time into the regulations at Sec.
250.198(e)(2)(i)(L) and adding a reference to this standard in Sec.
250.901(a)(26) and (d)(26).
46. API Recommended Practice 2SIM--Structural Integrity Management of
Fixed Offshore Structures, First Edition, November 2014; Reaffirmed
September 2020
This RP provides guidance for the structural integrity management
of existing fixed offshore structures used for the drilling,
development, production, and storage of hydrocarbons in offshore areas.
However, the general principles of SIM apply to any structure. Specific
guidance is provided for the evaluation of structural damage, above-
and below-water structural inspection, fitness-for-purpose assessment,
risk reduction, mitigation planning, and the process of
decommissioning. This RP incorporates and expands on the
recommendations of Section 14, ``Surveys'' and Section 17, ``Assessment
of Existing Platforms'' as previously provided in API RP 2A-WSD, Twenty
First Edition. See Annex A for additional information and guidelines on
the provisions stated in the numbered sections of this document. The
structural integrity management process provided in this RP is
applicable to existing platforms installed at any location worldwide.
However, the RP provides specific met-ocean criteria, which are only
applicable for use in fitness-for-purpose assessments of platforms
located in the U.S. Gulf of America and off the U.S. West Coast. For
guidelines, RPs, and other requirements relating to planning,
designing, and constructing new fixed offshore platforms, including
reuse and change-in-use of existing platforms, reference should be made
to the latest edition of API RP 2A-WSD. For guidelines, RPs, and other
requirements relating to planning, designing, and constructing new
offshore floating production systems, including reuse and change-in-use
of existing floating production systems, reference should be made to
the latest edition of API RP 2FPS. BSEE is incorporating by reference
the First Edition of API RP 2SIM for the first time into the
regulations at Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(M) and adding a reference to this
standard in Sec. Sec. 250.901(a)(27) and (d)(24); 250.919(b)(2) and
(d); and 250.920.
47. API Recommended Practice 2SM--Design, Manufacture, Installation,
and Maintenance of Synthetic Fiber Ropes for Offshore Mooring, Second
Edition, July 2014; Reaffirmation, September 2020
This document applies to synthetic fiber ropes used in the form of
taut leg or catenary moorings for both permanent and temporary offshore
installations. This document covers the following aspects of synthetic
fiber ropes: design and analysis considerations of mooring system,
design criteria for mooring components, rope design, rope specification
and testing, rope manufacture and quality assurance, rope handling and
installation, and in-service inspection and maintenance. Application of
this document to other offshore mooring applications is at the
discretion of the designer and operator. This document is not intended
to cover other marine applications of synthetic fiber ropes such as
tanker mooring at piers and harbors, towing hawsers, mooring hawsers at
single-point moorings, and tension leg platform tethers. Additionally,
very little test data are available for large synthetic fiber ropes
permanently deployed around fairleads and thus this document is limited
to fiber ropes which span freely between end terminations. The Second
Edition made changes to include applications to floating production,
storage, and offloading units, floating storage units, mobile offshore
drilling units, spar platforms, catenary anchor leg mooring buoys, and
mobile offshore units. Further, the Second Edition added provisions for
rope design, specification, and testing. The Second Edition was
reaffirmed in September 2020. This document is currently incorporated
by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(64). BSEE is updating the
incorporation by reference from the 2001 First Edition to the 2014
Second Edition, acknowledging the 2020 reaffirmation, renumbering the
regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(O), and updating the
reference of this standard in the existing regulations at Sec. Sec.
250.800(c) and 250.901(a)(9) and (d)(19).
48. API Recommended Practice 2T--Planning, Designing, and Constructing
Tension Leg Platforms, Third Edition, July 2010; Reaffirmed June 2015
This RP is a guide to the designer in organizing an efficient
approach to the design of a tension leg platform. Emphasis is placed on
participation of all engineering disciplines during each stage of
planning, development, design, construction, installation, and
inspection. The Third Edition made changes to include normative
references, seafloor characteristics, materials-welding-corrosion
protection, design criteria, safety categories, design load cases,
vortex-induced vibrations, system and frequency domain modeling,
material considerations, and design loads. The Third Edition was
reaffirmed in June 2015. This document is
[[Page 35315]]
currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(65). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the 1997 Second Edition to
the 2010 Third Edition, acknowledging the 2015 reaffirmation,
renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(P), and
updating the reference of this standard in the existing regulations at
Sec. 250.901(a)(10) and (d)(18).
49. API Specification 6A--Specification for Wellhead and Christmas Tree
Equipment, Twenty-First Edition, November 2018, Errata 1 April 2019,
Errata 2 June 2020, Errata 3 September 2020, Errata 4 September 2021,
Addendum 1 July 2020, Addendum 2, June 2021, Addendum 3, August 2022
This specification provides requirements and gives recommendations
for the performance, dimensional and functional interchangeability,
design, materials, testing, inspection, welding, marking, handling,
storing, shipment, and purchasing of wellhead and tree equipment for
use in the petroleum and natural gas industries. This specification
establishes requirements for four product specification levels (PSLs),
namely, PSL 1, PSL 2, PSL 3, and PSL 4, as well as a supplemental
designation of PSL 3G that define different levels of technical quality
requirements. The subject matter of Annexes B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J,
K, L, and M has been arranged in a way that minimizes the impact of
changes on users of this document. The Twenty-First Edition made
changes concerning normative references, performance, design,
materials, welding, bolting, pressure boundaries, and quality control.
This edition includes Errata through 2021 and Addenda through 2022, and
a title change from ANSI/API Spec. 6A to API Specification 6A. BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the 2010 Twentieth Edition
to the 2018 Twenty First Edition, acknowledging the various Errata and
Addenda made through 2022, renumbering the regulatory citationand
updating the reference to this standard in the new Sec.
250.198(e)(2)(i)(Q) to reflect the new name of the standard, and
updating the reference to this standard in the existing regulations at
Sec. Sec. 250.518(c), 250.619(c), 250.730(a)(2)(i), 250.802(a),
250.803(a), 250.833, 250.873(b), 250.874(g)(2), and 250.1002(b)(1) and
(2).
50. API Standard 6AV1--Validation of Safety and Shutdown Valves for
Sandy Service, Third Edition, July 2018
This Standard establishes sandy service design validation for
valves to meet Class II and Class III, but not for Class I safety
valves or actuators. There are three service classes, Class I, Class
II, and Class III, for API Specification 6A surface safety valves,
underwater safety valves, or boarding shutdown valves. Class II is
intended to validate the valve bore sealing mechanism if substances,
such as sand, can be expected to cause safety or shutdown valve
failure. Class III adds requirements and validation of the bonnet
assembly inclusive of stem seals. The Third Edition modified the Second
Edition sufficient to change the document designation from
Specification to Standard. Therefore, the title of this standard
changed from API Spec. 6AV1 to API Standard 6AV1. Other changes between
editions included the terms and conditions, equipment specifications,
validation requirements, seal tests, and procedural requirements. This
document is currently incorporated by reference in Sec.
250.198(e)(83). BSEE is updating the incorporation by reference from
the 2013 Second Edition to the 2018 Third Edition, renumbering the
regulatory citation and updating the reference to this standard in the
new Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(R) to reflect the new name of the standard,
and updating the reference to this standard in existing regulations at
Sec. Sec. 250.802(a) and (c), 250.833, 250.873(b), and 250.874(g)(2).
51. API Specification 6D--Specification for Valves, Twenty-Fifth
Edition November 2021, Errata 1 December 2021, Errata 2 April 2022,
Addendum 1 April 2023
This specification defines the requirements for the design,
manufacturing, assembly, testing, and documentation of ball, check,
gate, and plug valves for application in pipeline and piping systems
for the petroleum and natural gas industries. If product is supplied
bearing the API Monogram and manufactured at a facility licensed by
API, the requirements of Annex A apply. Annexes B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I,
J, K, L, M, N, and O are annexes that are used in the order listed.
This specification is not applicable to subsea pipeline valves, which
are covered by a separate specification, API 6DSS. This specification
is not applicable to valves for pressure ratings exceeding Class 2500.
The Twenty Fifth Edition made changes concerning configuration,
performance, pressure and temperature ratings, design, impact tests,
welding, and inspections. The title of this standard also changed from
ANSI/API Spec. 6D to API Specification 6D. The Twenty Fifth Edition
includes amendments and errata made through April 2022. This document
is currently incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(85). BSEE is
updating the incorporation by reference from the 2008 Twenty Third
Edition to the 2021 Twenty Fifth Edition, acknowledging the amendments
and errata made through 2022, renumbering the regulatory citation and
updating the reference to this standard in the new Sec.
250.198(e)(2)(i)(T) to reflect the new name of the standard, and
updating the reference of this standard in existing regulations at
Sec. 250.1002(b)(1).
52. API Specification 17D--Specification for Subsea Wellhead and Tree
Equipment, Third Edition, October 2021, Errata 1, December 2021,
Addendum 1, December 2022
This document provides specifications for subsea wellheads, mudline
wellheads, drill-through mudline wellheads, and both vertical and
horizontal subsea trees. It specifies the associated tooling necessary
to handle, test, and install the equipment. It also specifies the areas
of design, material, welding, quality control, including factory
acceptance testing, marking, storing, and shipping for individual
equipment, subassemblies, and subsea tree assemblies. The Third Edition
made changes concerning configuration, performance, and several design
equations, and includes a 2021 Errata and 2022 Addendum. The title of
this standard is also corrected from ANSI/API Specification 17D to API
Specification 17D. This document is currently incorporated by reference
in Sec. 250.198(e)(91). BSEE is updating the incorporation by
reference from the 2011 Second Edition to the 2021 Third Edition,
acknowledging the 2021 Errata and 2022 Reaffirmation, updating the
reference to this standard in Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(HH) to reflect the
corrected name of the standard, and updating the reference of this
standard in the existing regulations at Sec. Sec. 250.518(c),
250.619(c), 250.730(a)(2)(v).
53. API Specification 17J--Specification for Unbonded Flexible Pipe,
Fourth Edition, May 2014, Errata 1 September 2016, Errata 2 May 2017,
Addendum 1 October 2017, Reaffirmed March 2021
This document defines the technical requirements for safe,
dimensionally, and functionally interchangeable flexible pipes that are
designed and manufactured to uniform standards and criteria. Minimum
requirements are specified for the design, material selection,
manufacture, testing, marking, and packaging of flexible pipes, with
reference to existing codes and standards where applicable. API Spec
[[Page 35316]]
17J applies to unbonded flexible pipe assemblies, consisting of
segments of flexible pipe body with end fittings attached to both ends.
The applications addressed by API Spec 17J are sweet and sour service
production, including export and injection applications. Production
products include oil, gas, water, and injection chemicals. API Spec 17J
applies to both static and dynamic flexible pipes used as flowlines,
risers, and jumpers. The Fourth Edition made changes concerning
normative references, design parameters, quality assurance
requirements, and testing. The Fourth Edition includes 2016 and 2017
errata, a 2017 addendum, and 2021 reaffirmation. The title of this
standard has also changed from ANSI/API Spec. 17J to API Spec 17J. This
document is currently incorporated by reference in Sec.
250.198(e)(92). BSEE is updating the incorporation by reference from
the 2008 Third Edition to the 2014 Fourth Edition, acknowledging the
errata, addendum, and reaffirmation, renumbering the regulatory
citation and updating the reference to this standard in the new Sec.
250.198(e)(2)(i)(JJ) to reflect the new name of the standard, and
updating the reference of this standard in the existing regulations at
Sec. Sec. 250.852(e), 250.1002(b)(4), and 250.1007(a)(4)(i)(D).
54. API Specification 20E--Alloy and Carbon Steel Bolting for Use in
the Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries, Second Edition, February
2017, Addendum 1 September 2018, Addendum 2 March 2019, Errata 1
November 2021, Errata 2 May 2022
This document specifies requirements for the qualification,
production, and documentation of alloy and carbon steel bolting used in
the petroleum and natural gas industries. It applies when referenced by
an applicable API equipment standard or otherwise specified as a
requirement for compliance. An annex for supplemental requirements that
may be invoked by the purchaser is included. This document establishes
requirements for three bolting specification levels (BSL). These three
BSL designations define different levels of technical, quality, and
qualification requirements, BSL-1, BSL-2, and BSL-3. The BSLs are
numbered according to the increasing levels of severe consequences if a
bolt fails. Hence, the increasing BSL levels reflect increasing
technical, quality, and qualification criteria appropriate to reducing
the risk of failure. This document covers the following finished
product forms, processes, and sizes: machined studs; machined bolts,
screws, and nuts; cold formed bolts, screws, and nuts (BSL-1 only); hot
formed bolts and screws <1.5 in. (38.1 mm) nominal diameter; hot formed
bolts and screws > or = 1.5 in. (38.1 mm) nominal diameter; roll
threaded studs, bolts, and screws <1.5 in. (38.1 mm) diameter; roll
threaded studs, bolts, and screws > or = 1.5 in. (38.1 mm) diameter;
hot formed nuts <1.5 in. (38.1 mm) nominal diameter; and hot formed
nuts > or = 1.5 in. (38.1 mm) nominal diameter. The Fourth Edition
includes addenda and errata through May 2022. BSEE is incorporating by
reference API Spec 20E, including the addenda and errata made through
2022, for the first time into the regulations at Sec.
250.198(e)(2)(i)(KK) and adding a reference to this standard in Sec.
250.730(a)(2)(vi).
55. API Specification 20F--Corrosion-Resistant Bolting for Use in the
Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries, Second Edition, May 2018, API
Monogram Program Effective Date: November 1, 2018, Errata 1 October
2020, Addendum 1 November 2021
This document specifies requirements for the qualification,
production, and documentation of corrosion-resistant bolting used in
the petroleum and natural gas industries. It applies when referenced by
an applicable API equipment standard or otherwise specified as a
requirement for compliance. This document establishes requirements for
two bolting specification levels (BSL). These two BSL designations
define different levels of technical, quality, and qualification
requirements: BSL-2 and BSL-3. The BSLs are numbered in increasing
levels of requirements in order to reflect increasing technical,
quality, and qualification criteria. BSL-2 and BSL-3 are intended to be
comparable to BSL-2 and BSL-3 as found in API Spec 20E. BSL-1 is
omitted from this standard. This document covers the following product
forms, processes, and sizes: machined studs; machined bolts, screws,
and nuts; cold-formed bolts, screws, and nuts with cut or cold-formed
threads; hot-formed bolts and screws <1.5 in. (38.1 mm) nominal
diameter; hot-formed bolts and screws >=1.5 in. (38.1 mm) nominal
diameter; roll threaded studs, bolts, and screws <1.5 in. (38.1 mm)
diameter; roll threaded studs, bolts, and screws >=1.5 in. (38.1 mm)
diameter; hot-formed nuts <1.5 in. (38.1 mm) nominal diameter; and hot-
formed nuts >=1.5 in. (38.1 mm) nominal diameter. The Fourth Edition
includes addenda and errata through November 2021. BSEE is
incorporating by reference the Second Edition of API Spec 20F,
including the addenda and errata made through 2021, for the first time
into the regulations at Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(LL) and adding a
reference to this standard in Sec. 250.730(a)(2)(vii).
56. API Standard 53--Well Control Equipment Systems for Drilling Wells,
Fifth Edition, December 2018
This document provides the requirements for the installation and
testing of blowout prevention equipment systems on land and marine
drilling rigs (barge, platform, bottom-supported, and floating). Well
control equipment systems are designed with components that provide
wellbore pressure control in support of well operations. The primary
functions of these systems are to confine well fluids to the wellbore,
provide means to add fluid to the wellbore, and allow controlled
volumes to be removed from the wellbore. The Fifth Edition made changes
concerning sealing components, pressure measurement, control systems,
testing, and examples. This document is currently incorporated by
reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(94). BSEE is updating the incorporation
by reference from the 2012 Fourth Edition to the 2018 Fifth Edition,
renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(i)(MM), and
updating the reference of this standard in existing regulations at
Sec. Sec. 250.730(a), 250.734(a)(4), 250.735(a), 250.736(d)(1),
250.737(d)(1), and 250.739(a).
57. API Standard 2555--Method for Liquid Calibration of Tanks, First
Edition, September 1966; Reaffirmed May 2014
This standard describes the procedure for calibrating tanks, or
portions of tanks, that are larger than a barrel or drum by introducing
or withdrawing measured quantities of liquid. This update reflects a
May 2014 reaffirmation of the standard without substantive change. This
document is currently incorporated by reference in Sec.
250.198(e)(97). BSEE is updating the incorporation by reference by
acknowledging the 2014 and 2023 reaffirmations, renumbering the
regulatory citation to Sec. 250.198(e)(2)(iii)(A), and adding an
express reference to this standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xlii) to
clarify the longstanding use of this document already incorporated in
the current regulations.
[[Page 35317]]
58. API Recommended Practice 2556--Recommended Practice for Correcting
Gauge Tables for Incrustation, Second Edition, August 1993; Reaffirmed
November 2023
Incrustation is defined for the purpose of this RP as any material
that adheres to the internal vertical sidewall surfaces of a tank when
the tank is otherwise empty. Incrustation has the same effect on tank
capacity as deadwood (anything that displaces liquid inside a tank) and
should be treated as such as long as it remains in the tank. The
problem of deducting the volume of liquid displaced by incrustation is
complicated by two of incrustation's basic and typical characteristics.
First, incrustation is difficult to measure, and second, its thickness
is usually variable. Some oils present no incrustation problem, but
many others do, usually on a field-wide basis. The error in measurement
from any one tank may be slight, but the accumulated error from an
entire field or from any one tank over a period of time could be
substantial. The error always has the effect of indicating too large a
tank capacity; therefore, a receiving carrier cannot be expected to
continually absorb the effect of these errors. The method selected to
correct the error should depend upon the desired approach to accuracy
of measurement.
The tables given in this RP (see Section 4) show the percent of
error of measurement caused by varying thicknesses of uniform
incrustation in tanks of various sizes. These tables may be used as a
guide by the tank owner and the carrier to negotiate an allowance for
incrustation. If it is established that incrustation is causing a
substantial loss to a carrier or to any other receiver using affected
tank gauges as the basis for custody transfer measurement, it is the
responsibility of the tank owner to provide a tank that will permit an
accurate measurement or to agree to a reasonable adjustment. This
update reflects a November 2013 and a November 2023 reaffirmation of
the standard without substantive change. This document is currently
incorporated by reference in Sec. 250.198(e)(80). BSEE is updating the
incorporation by reference by acknowledging the 2013 and 2023
reaffirmations, renumbering the regulatory citation to Sec.
250.198(e)(2)(iii)(B), and updated the reference to this standard in
Sec. 250.1202(a)(2)(xliii).
59. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code, Section VIII--Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels;
Division 1, 2021 Edition, July 1, 2021
This code gives detailed requirements for the design, fabrication,
testing, inspection, and certification of both fired and unfired
pressure vessels. It specifically refers to those pressure vessels that
operate at pressures, either internal or external, that exceed 15 psig.
Section VIII is divided into 3 sections, each of which covers different
vessel specifications. Division 1 addresses the requirements for
design, fabrication, inspection, testing, and certification. Division 1
contains appendices, some mandatory and some non-mandatory, that detail
supplementary design criteria, nondestructive examination techniques,
and inspection acceptance standards for pressure vessels. Division 1
also contains rules that apply to the use of the single ASME
certification mark with the U, UM, and UV designators. The 2021 Edition
made changes to bring the document into conformance with more recent
practice, namely overpressure protections, permitted pressure relief
devices and methods, design criteria, low temperature operation, and
materials considerations. BSEE is updating the incorporation by
reference of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII,
Division 1, at Sec. 250.198(f)(3)(i) from the 2017 Edition to the 2021
Edition and updating the reference of this standard in existing
regulations at Sec. 250.851(a)(1)(i) and (a)(3)(i).
60. ISO/IEC 17011:2017(E)--Conformity Assessment--Requirements for
Accreditation Bodies Accrediting Conformity Assessment Bodies, Second
Edition 2017-11
This document specifies requirements for the competence, consistent
operation, and impartiality of accreditation bodies assessing and
accrediting conformity assessment bodies. In the context of this
document, activities covered by accreditation include, but are not
limited to, testing, calibration, inspection, certification of
management systems, persons, products, processes and services,
provision of proficiency testing, production of reference materials,
validation, and verification. The Second Edition made changes to bring
the document into conformance with more recent practice. The document
was revised and reorganized and an Annex A on knowledge and skills for
performing accreditation activities was added. BSEE is updating the
incorporation by reference of ISO/IEC 17011 at Sec. 250.198(j)(1) from
the 2004 First Edition to the 2017 Second Edition, renumbering the
regulatory citation from Sec. 250.198(j)(1) to Sec. 250.198(k)(1),
and updating the reference of this standard in existing regulations at
Sec. Sec. 250.1900(a), 250.1903, 250.1904(d), and 250.1922.
61. GPA Midstream Standard 2198-16--Selection, Preparation, Validation,
Care and Storage of Natural Gas and Natural Gas Liquids Reference
Standard Blends; Adopted as a Standard 1998; Revised August 2016
This standard covers the recommended procedures for selecting the
proper Natural Gas and Natural Gas Liquids Reference Standards,
preparing the standards for use, verifying the accuracy of composition
as reported by the manufacturer, and the proper care and storage of
those standards to ensure their integrity and longevity during use.
This standard was revised in 2016. BSEE is incorporating by reference
GPA standards into the regulations for the first time, including GPA
Standard 2198-16 and its revision at Sec. 250.198(j)(1)). BSEE is also
adding a reference to this standard in Sec. 250.1203(b)(2)(vii).
62. GPA Midstream Standard 2261-20--Analysis for Natural Gas and
Similar Gaseous Mixtures by Gas Chromatography; Copyright 2019
This standard provides the gas processing industry with a method
for determining the chemical composition of natural gas and similar
gaseous mixtures using a Gas Chromatograph. The precision statements
contained in this standard are based on the statistical analysis of
round-robin laboratory data obtained by GPA Section B. This standard
was developed by the cooperative efforts of many individuals from
industry under the sponsorship of GPA Section B, Analysis and Test
Methods. BSEE is incorporating by reference for the first time GPA
2261-20, as revised in 2020, into the regulations at Sec.
250.198(j)(2)) and adding a reference to this standard in Sec.
250.1203(b)(2)(viii).
63. GPA Midstream Standard 2286-14--Method for the Extended Analysis of
Natural Gas and Similar Gaseous Mixtures by Temperature Program Gas
Chromatography; Revised 2014
This standard covers the determination of the chemical composition
of natural gas streams where precise physical property data of the
hexanes and heavier fraction is
[[Page 35318]]
required. This procedure is applicable for gaseous hydrocarbon mixes,
which may contain nitrogen and carbon dioxide and/or hydrocarbon
complexes C1 through C14 that fall within the ranges specified therein.
This standard had previously seen only minor revisions since its
adoption as a technical standard in 1986. The GPA revised portions of
the standard that had become obsolete and that did not reflect current
industry practices. In addition, the example calculations that use GPA
2145 to reflect the 2009 revision of GPA 2145 and all calculations
related to those presented in GPA 2172 were removed and referenced to
GPA 2172. The most significant changes to the standard involve updates
to the method to maintain consistency with current technologies. BSEE
is incorporating by reference for the first time GPA 2286-14, as
revised in 2014, into its regulations at Sec. 250.198(j)(3), and
adding a reference to this standard in Sec. 250.1203(b)(2)(ix).
Availability of Incorporated Documents for Public Viewing
When a copyrighted technical industry standard is incorporated by
reference into the regulations, BSEE must observe and protect that
copyright. BSEE provides members of the public with website addresses
where these standards may be accessed for viewing--sometimes for free
and sometimes for a fee. Typically, each SDO owns the standard's
copyright and decides whether to charge a fee.
The API provides free read-only online public access to about 160
key industry standards, including a broad range of technical standards.
All API standards that are safety-related and that are incorporated
into Federal regulations are available to the public for free viewing
online in the Incorporation by Reference Reading Room at <a href="https://www.api.org/products-and-services/standards/ibr-reading-room">https://www.api.org/products-and-services/standards/ibr-reading-room</a> or for
purchase on API's website at <a href="https://publications.api.org">https://publications.api.org</a> and <a href="https://www.api.org/products-and-services/standards/purchase">https://www.api.org/products-and-services/standards/purchase</a>, respectively. In
addition to the free availability of these standards for viewing on
API's website, hardcopies and printable versions are available for
purchase from API. The API website address to purchase standards is:
<a href="https://www.api.org/products-and-services/standards/purchase">https://www.api.org/products-and-services/standards/purchase</a>. We are
also incorporating standards from other SDOs, including the AGA, GPA,
ASME, and ISO. To purchase the copyrighted documents, the website
addresses and telephone numbers are: for AGA Documents, contact Accuris
at <a href="https://store.accuristech.com/">https://store.accuristech.com/</a>; for ASME Documents, contact the
organization at 1-800-843-2763 or their website
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#9deaeaeab3fee8eee9f2f0f8effefceff8ddfceef0f8b3f2effa"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="cbbcbcbce5a8beb8bfa4a6aeb9a8aab9ae8baab8a6aee5a4b9ac">[email protected]</span></a>; and for GPA Documents, contact the
organization at 1-918-493-3872 or their website <a href="http://www.gpamidstream.org">www.gpamidstream.org</a>;
for ISO documents, contact the organization at +41 22 749 01 11 or
their website at <a href="https://www.iso.org/standards.html">https://www.iso.org/standards.html</a>.
For the convenience of the viewing public who may not wish to
purchase or view the incorporated documents online, the documents may
be inspected at BSEE's offices at 1919 Smith Street, Suite 14042,
Houston, Texas 77002 (phone: 1-844-259-4779), 45600 Woodland Road,
Sterling, Virginia 20166 (email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#4634232135062435232368212930"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="fe8c9b998dbe9c8d9b9bd0999188">[email protected]</span></a>), by appointment only.
An appointment is required to ensure personnel are available to
accommodate requests to inspect the documents at BSEE offices and to
account for competing agency obligations or concerns, including those
related to public health and natural disasters. Additional information
about where these documents can be inspected or purchased can be found
at Sec. 250.198, Documents incorporated by reference, or by sending a
request by email to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#bcced9dbcffcdecfd9d992dbd3ca"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="6b190e0c182b09180e0e450c041d">[email protected]</span></a>. The other standards that appear in
the amendatory text of this document were previously approved for the
sections in which they appear.
II. Discussion of Public Comments on the Proposed Rule
In response to the proposed rule, BSEE received 4 sets of submitted
comments containing general statements and specific comments on the
standards included in the proposed rule. Comments included submittals
from 1 company, 2 industry organizations (joint comments), and 2
anonymous individuals. All relevant comments are posted at the Federal
eRulemaking portal: <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>. To access the comments
at that website, enter BSEE-2022-0005 in the Search box.
BSEE received multiple comments expressing general support for the
proposed rule, including those that endorsed the Bureau's approach for
undertaking this rulemaking to ensure that references to standards
incorporated into regulation are kept current and, therefore, recognize
the current changes in technology, materials, and safety improvements
in the industry. While these commenters voiced support broadly for the
rulemaking, they also disagreed with incorporating certain standards
included in the proposed rule and provided suggested revisions. BSEE
reviewed all comments submitted, and this section of the preamble
contains brief summaries of the relevant comments, as well as BSEE's
responses.
General Comments
Summary of comments related to compliance with previous editions of
standards: A few commenters noted that standards are developed based on
the current industry best practices and in most cases, represent
forward-looking requirements for designs, equipment, and engineering
systems. When incorporated by reference, standards provide requirements
for engineering systems that will be designed after the date of
incorporation (effective date). For infrastructure and equipment that
was designed, fabricated, installed, or operated on the OCS prior to
the effective date of new standard incorporation, BSEE should clarify
that compliant operation is defined as operating the equipment with
technical specifications meeting the requirements specified in the
original basis of design and applicable standards editions used when
design was performed.F
Response: BSEE does not agree with the commenters' recommendation.
BSEE has addressed this comment numerous times in other rulemakings
(e.g., 83 FR 49216, 49229). It is not necessary to specify which of the
updated standards, or which provisions in those standards, apply
prospectively. By incorporating updated standards into this final rule,
BSEE generally does not intend to require, and the standards themselves
do not envision, replacement of existing facilities or equipment (that
meet the applicable requirements that were in effect when the
facilities or equipment were installed). The updated standards will
apply to all BSEE approvals of facilities and equipment prospectively
(as of the effective date of the final rule). The language of the
regulations and the referenced standards will result in their
application to new and existing facilities or equipment and require
certain future actions (e.g., equipment inspection, testing, removal,
repair, or replacement) after this rule's effective date. After the
effective date, operators must ensure that all existing facilities,
equipment, and practices comply with those applicable requirements. If
compliance issues arise in the future, BSEE will evaluate those issues
on a case-by-case basis and where appropriate, may approve a request to
use alternate procedures or equipment based on the circumstances or
issues associated with each standard.
Summary of comments related to annual Incorporation by Reference
(IBR)
[[Page 35319]]
rulemakings: A few commenters encouraged BSEE to ensure its regulations
keep up with the most updated standards by actively publishing IBR rule
notices on an annual basis to reflect the most recent technology and
safety criteria.
Response: BSEE agrees and shares the commenters' views as to the
value and importance of standards incorporated by reference into the
regulations. However, the timing associated with finalizing a rule is
dependent on many factors unique to each rulemaking, such as the number
of standards that may be included in a particular rulemaking or the
number of issues that must be addressed before finalizing a rule. BSEE
strives to issue IBR rulemakings on a continuous basis.
Summary of comments related to normative references and secondary
standards: A few commenters expressed dissatisfaction with BSEE's
procedures for addressing secondary standards, which includes
incorporating those secondary standards into the regulations. Industry
standards often have normative references that include requirements to
comply with other standards (referred to as secondary standards). Those
requirements usually reference a specific version or edition of the
secondary standard. BSEE should be aware of how compliance will be
administered for standards with normative references where secondary
standards with different editions are also incorporated by reference.
To assure clarity of regulatory requirements, and to avoid edition
conflicts, industry recommends that BSEE eliminates direct
incorporation of secondary standards, when the primary standard is
incorporated.
Response: BSEE understands the commenters' concerns. However, one
of BSEE's core responsibilities includes enforcement of applicable
laws, regulations, or other requirements that the Bureau imposes. As
previously mentioned, the legal effect of incorporation by reference is
that the incorporated standards become regulatory requirements. This
incorporated material, like any other regulation, has the force and
effect of law. Operators, lessees, and other regulated parties must
comply with the documents incorporated by reference in the regulations.
BSEE relies heavily on its regulations to guide its enforcement
actions. Furthermore, incorporation by reference of a document or
publication is limited to the version of the document or publication
cited in the regulations, as required by the OFR under 1 CFR part 51.
These factors weigh heavily into BSEE's overarching approach to
incorporating by reference secondary standards into the regulations.
BSEE did not make a change to the final rule in response to this
comment and will not change its policy for incorporating by reference
secondary standards into the regulations.
Summary of comment related to BSEE engagement in the standards
development process: A commenter suggested that BSEE should ensure that
its personnel are active and directly engaged in the open and
transparent standard development process. However, BSEE should also
establish internal processes to ensure that the engaged BSEE experts
are sharing their knowledge of the standards with other BSEE personnel
to ensure the broad internal understanding of both the content and the
status of the standards and how they should be applied to the OCS.
Response: BSEE personnel are involved in the standards development
process, and those individuals do, in fact, share information and
knowledge with other BSEE staff (including inspectors and those
responsible for permit approvals) about the content and status of
recently published standards or standards under development.
Measurement-Related Comments
Summary of comments related to additional reaffirmations of
standards: A few commenters noted that several oil and gas measurement-
related standards referenced in the proposed rule have had additional
reaffirmations made by the API. These standards include API MPMS
Chapter 3.1A, API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 1, API MPMS Chapter 4.5, API
MPMS Chapter 4, Section 7, API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 9 Part 2, API
MPMS Chapter 5, sections 3, 4, and 5, API Standard 2552, API Standard
2555, and API RP 2556.
Response: BSEE agrees with the commenters recommended
clarifications. A reaffirmed standard denotes an action taken by the
API standards committee, normally within a 5-year timeframe, confirming
that the information contained within the standard is still applicable
and requires no change at this time. Additionally, the edition number
and date of the standard does not change because of reaffirmation by
the standards committee. Because a reaffirmation does not change any of
the standard's provisions and does not provide any new substantive
information BSEE previously made available during the public's review
of the proposed rule, BSEE may make this type of change as part of the
final rule. BSEE checked the most recent publications of all the
standards the commenters cited as having additional reaffirmation dates
and could only confirm that API RP 2556 had an additional reaffirmation
date. None of the current publications in the other documents the
commenters recommended updating contained the additional reaffirmation
dates. In accordance 1 CFR 51.7(a)(2)(i), a publication is eligible for
incorporation by reference if it is published data. The documents the
commenters cited are, in fact, published. However, the publications
cited by these commenters do not contain the reaffirmation dates that
commenters had noted. Therefore, this final rule incorporates the new
reaffirmation date of API RP 2556 only. If these standards do get
published with additional reaffirmation dates, BSEE will consider
updating its regulations at Sec. 250.198 as part of a future
rulemaking to acknowledge the reaffirmations. In addition, as noted in
the proposed rule, BSEE is removing API Standard 2552 from the
regulations because the document provided best practices as of 1966; it
is now outdated and not applicable with the measurement and calibration
requirements presently used. Therefore, BSEE is not accepting the
commenters' recommendation on this standard either.
Summary of comments related to newer editions of or superseding
standards: A few commenters recommended replacing certain standards
referenced in the proposed rule with other standards that either
supersede or update the edition of the standards referenced in the
proposed rule. The standards the commenters recommended replacing
include API MPMS Chapter 6.1, API MPMS Chapter 6, sections 6 and 7, API
MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, Part 4, API MPMS Chapter 14, Section 8, API
MPMS Chapter 2, Section 2A, API MPMS Chapter 3, Section 1B, API MPMS
Chapter 4, Section 6, API MPMS Ch. 20.3, API MPMS Chapter 21, Section
1, API STD 6AV2, API Spec 11D1, ANSI/API Spec 14A, API RP 14F, API RP
17H, API Spec 16A, API Spec 16C, API Spec 16D, API RP 65, API 510, API
RP 90, and API Spec Q1.
Response: BSEE appreciates the clarification provided through these
comments. However, the Bureau did not accept the commenters'
recommendation. BSEE did not propose these superseding or newer
editions of standards as part of the proposed rule. Therefore, the
public was not notified and given the opportunity to review and
potentially provide comments on these standards during the public
comment period. BSEE will review these
[[Page 35320]]
standards and consider including them in future rulemakings.
Summary of comments related to API MPMS Chapter 9.4: A few
commenters pointed out that BSEE should, in conjunction with its
incorporation by reference of API MPMS Chapter 9.4, promote Bureau
personnel (i.e., regulators and inspectors) awareness that the standard
provides the option to use online density in lieu of using the density
from a sample.
Response: BSEE agrees with the commenters but did not make any
changes in response to this comment. BSEE already has processes in
place to ensure that its personnel are aware that the standard provides
the option to use online density information. BSEE's Gulf of America
Regional Office is responsible for approving the use of a continuous
density measurement system at a facility measurement point (FMP). They
are aware that API MPMS Chapter 9.4 provides the option to use online
density in lieu of using the density from a sample. The approving
official will consider it if the option is included as part of a
request to use a continuous density measurement system. If the use of
online density information is permitted, it will be documented in
BSEE's measurement approval. The approval document will be shared with
appropriate program staff at the BSEE District Office and with the
Production Inspection Coordinator for use as part of a production
inspection.
Summary of comments related to API MPMS Chapter 12.2: In the
proposed rule, BSEE had proposed to incorporate by reference for the
first time API MPMS Chapter 12.2 and remove API MPMS Chapter 12,
Section 2, parts 1, 2, and 3 since API had withdrawn these three
standards and replaced them with API MPMS Chapter 12.2. A few
commenters noted that API MPMS Chapter 12.2 took more than 16 years to
develop and reach final consensus. They requested BSEE to consider
grandfathering existing measurement systems, as immediate industrywide
implementation will require significant time due to limitations on
manufacturer development and availability of flow computer systems.
Response: BSEE agrees with the commenter that there are limitations
on the availability of equipment for existing FMPs on the OCS that will
be required to comply with API MPMS Chapter 12.2 by August 10, 2026.
There are currently 201 active oil royalty FMPs and 445 active royalty
meters on the OCS. BSEE anticipates it will take at most 5 years for
operators to assess those existing measurement systems and acquire the
proper equipment to comply with API MPMS Chapter 12.2. Therefore, as
part of the final rule, BSEE includes a provision delaying the
compliance date for measurement systems on the OCS in existence as of
August 10, 2026 that are unable to comply with API MPMS Chapter 12.2.
However, those existing measurement systems must comply with API MPMS
Chapter 12.2 by August 11, 2031. During that delay period, but no later
than August 11, 2031, existing measurement systems may comply with API
MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, parts 1, 2, and 3 in lieu of API MPMS
Chapter 12.2, but must comply with API MPMS Chapter 12.2 no later than
August 11, 2031. Measurement systems on the OCS in existence prior to
August 10, 2026 must be in compliance with API MPMS Chapter 12.2 by
August 11, 2031. This provision does not apply to new oil royalty FMPs
or royalty meters approved on the OCS, which must comply with Chapter
12.2 starting on August 10, 2026.
Summary of comments related to API MPMS Chapter 2.2E and API MPMS
Chapter 2.2F: A few commenters recommended that BSEE not incorporate
API MPMS Chapter 2.2E, Part 1, and API MPMS Chapter 2.2F, Part 2 as
there is limited or no need to incorporate these standards by reference
for tanks that are not used offshore. The commenters noted that during
operator working group discussions on these standards, none of the
participants used horizontal cylindrical tanks in offshore operations.
Response: BSEE agrees with the commenters' observations on the use,
or the lack thereof, of horizontal cylindrical tanks on the OCS.
Therefore, it is not necessary to incorporate by reference these two
measurement standards into the regulations.
Summary of comments related to API MPMS Chapter 20.5: A few
commenters recommended that BSEE not incorporate API MPMS Chapter 20.5
as there has been significant learning in industry since the
publication of the standard, which has shown the need for a revision.
The commenters recommended that BSEE wait to incorporate by reference
this standard into the regulations until the standard is updated to the
second edition, which will align the provisions of this standard with
updates to other standards, thereby eliminating potential conflicting
requirements. In lieu of incorporating by reference API MPMS Chapter
20.5 into the regulations, the commenters recommended that BSEE instead
maintain provisions in current subpart K, Sec. 250.1152.
Response: BSEE disagrees with the commenters' recommendations.
Although the first edition of API MPMS Chapter 20.5, which was
published over 6 years ago, is somewhat out of date, it is far more
useful as a guidance document than the regulations at subpart K, Sec.
250.1152. BSEE also notes that API reaffirmed the standard only a year
ago. Also, the potential for conflicts between standards that are being
updated continually will always exist and any issues can be addressed
as they are identified.
Summary of comments related to API Specification 17D, API
Specification 6A, and API Standard 6AV1: A few commenters recommended
that, in conjunction with BSEE's proposal to update the incorporation
by reference of API Specification 17D to the Third Edition, API
Specification 6A to the Twenty First Edition, and API Standard 6AV1 to
the Third Edition into the regulations, BSEE should remove the
reference to API Specification 6A in Sec. 250.833 Specification for
underwater safety valves (USVs) and Sec. 250.834 Use of USVs, but
maintain the reference to API Standard 6AV1. The commenters explained
that the previous edition of API Spec 17D, i.e., the Second Edition,
required USV monogramming under the previous edition of API
Specification 6A, i.e., the Second Edition. However, the updated, Third
Edition of API Specification 17D allows for USVs to be monogrammed
under that standard, and its monogramming requirements are the same as
API Standard 6AV1. The monogramming requirements contained within the
newer, Twenty First Edition of API Specification 6A are not the same as
the new editions of API Specification 17D and API Standard 6AV1.
Therefore, there will be conflicts in the regulations by maintaining
the reference to API Specification 6A in Sec. Sec. 250.833 and
250.834.
Response: BSEE disagrees with the commenters' recommendation to
remove the reference to API Specification 6A in Sec. 250.833. API
Specification 6A is not mentioned in Sec. 250.834. Sections 250.802
and 250.803 reference API Specification 6A within the context of USVs.
Therefore, for consistency, it will not be appropriate to
[[Page 35321]]
remove the reference to 6A in Sec. 250.833. API Specification 17D is
not currently referenced in the regulations for USVs. Its reference
pertains only to those regulations in part 250 that address blowout
preventers. BSEE considered the option of replacing the reference of
API Specification 6A in Sec. 250.833 with API Specification 17D.
However, the requirements in API Specification 17D, as it pertains to
those provisions that will apply to USVs, are not as stringent and thus
not as robust as the requirements in API Specification 6A. Existing
regulations at Sec. 250.801 already provide a process to forgo
monogramming of safety and pollution prevention equipment, including
USVs, if an operator chooses to pursue that option.
Platforms- and Structures-Related Comments
Summary of comments related to compliance with the updated edition
of API RP 2A-WSD and the new API RP 2A-WSD, API RP 2MET, and API RP
2SIM standards: A commenter requested BSEE to evaluate facilities and
structures under prior versions of standards that were in effect at the
time the assets were originally designed and installed on the OCS. The
commenter has serious concerns, in reference to the new API RP 2A,
2MET, and 2SIM standards, that structures designed, fabricated, and
installed that comply with previous editions of API RP 2A-WSD will be
inadvertently and overly scrutinized, which could cause unnecessary
rework to platforms currently operating within their original design
and/or could restrict the ability to repair or modify platforms in the
future to meet business needs. Further, the commenter stated that ``new
structural standards dramatically change the classification,
inspection, and assessment criteria of structures currently installed
and compliant with applicable regulations and standards on the OCS.''
Response: BSEE does not intend to use this standard's update as a
mechanism to initiate new analyses of all existing facilities and
structures. However, there will be cases where BSEE will require the
existing facilities to comply with newer editions of a standard. For
example, as existing facilities are modified to add new wells or
topsides equipment, enlarge platform deck space, or repair damage, or
are replaced to extend service life, BSEE will evaluate the original
facilities for structural compliance under the current version of the
standard in BSEE's regulations.
Another example where BSEE will require an operator to comply with
the newer edition of API RP 2A-WSD or the new API RP 2SIM for existing
fixed structures will be in cases where the operator must comply with
the 5-year assessment process prescribed in paragraph (e) of Sec.
250.920 ``What are the BSEE requirements for assessment of fixed
platforms?'' BSEE will require the operator to comply with the new
standards when performing the required structural analyses under the
assessment process. The new editions of API RP 2A-WSD and API RP 2SIM
were published in November 2014, providing more than 9 years for
industry to comply.
In the years since API RP 2A-WSD, Twenty Second Edition, was first
published in 2014, BSEE has been approached numerous times by industry
with requests to allow the usage API RP 2A-WSD, Twenty Second Edition,
for planning, designing, and constructing fixed offshore platforms. By
incorporating by reference API RP 2A-WSD, Twenty Second Edition, BSEE
is aligning its regulations with the most up-to-date industry standard
for the structural planning, designing, and construction of fixed
offshore platforms. Avoidance of the criteria set out in the Twenty
Second Edition will be ill-considered, ignore good operating practices,
and dismiss advances in structural design and installation.
Industry advanced the Twenty Second Edition of API RP 2A-WSD and
First Edition of API RP 2SIM 9 years ago and has become familiar with
its methods and tasks. Accordingly, BSEE does not agree with the
commenter that this standard should not apply to existing structures
and facilities.
Summary of comments related to discrepancies between API-RP-2SIM
and a 2007 Notice to Lessees (NTL): One commenter points to
discrepancies between API RP 2SIM First Edition (2014) and a Notice to
Lessees (NTL) issued in 2007 by MMS. The commenter says the 2014 API RP
2SIM First Edition ``appears to be overly conservative and punitive as
applied to fixed offshore structures designed to comply with earlier
editions of API RP 2A-WSD.''
Response: NTLs are advisory documents that reflect knowledge and
practices available at the time of their issuance, here 17 years ago.
In contrast, standards that are incorporated by reference in BSEE
regulations are the result of lengthy and systematic evaluation by
industry before being adopted as rules. In November 2014, the API
designated API RP 2A-WSD, Twenty Second Edition, as establishing the
minimum acceptable criteria for planning, designing, and constructing
fixed offshore platforms using working stress designs. API reaffirmed
the Twenty Second Edition in September 2020. Industry has supported and
maintained the minimum criteria in the Twenty Second Edition for most
of the last decade.
Summary of comments related to ambiguous or conflicting provisions
in the newer edition of API RP 2A-WSD and the new API RP 2MET and API
RP 2SIM: A commenter advises BSEE that ``certain vague or ambiguous
provisions and/or discrepancies within a combination of new structural
standards exist and should be addressed in conjunction with API
subcommittee support.''
Response: Rulemaking is not the proper venue for correcting vague
or ambiguous provisions in industry standards. Standard development
organizations, such as API and ASME, coordinate and publish standards
that are written by industry subject matter experts. Such matters
should be addressed with SDOs.
Summary of comments related to Section 9 of API RP 2SIM: A
commenter questions the accuracy and completeness of certain provisions
of Section 9 of API RP 2SIM pertaining to assessments for metocean
loading and criteria contained within that section. The commenter
recommended that API address its concerns accuracy and completeness of
information in Section 9 of API RP 2SIM. The commenter also requested
that BSEE allow the operator to use site-specific metocean data that
they acquire in preference in lieu of the requirements in Section
H.9.2.2.5 of API RP 2MET, Second Edition.
Response: BSEE is not responsible for the preparation of API
standards, and this rulemaking is not intended to resolve how standards
are developed or interpreted among industry members. BSEE declines to
adopt the commenter's request that BSEE preferentially allow operators
to use site-specific metocean data that they acquire in lieu of
complying with the requirements in Section H.9.2.2.5 of API RP 2MET,
Second Edition. BSEE will implement the API RP 2MET, Second Edition
standard, including the development of site-specific metocean criteria
in accordance with the methodology in API RP 2MET, Second Edition or
the use of the default metocean tables and curves within API RP 2MET,
Second Edition in lieu of developing site specific metocean criteria.
Summary of comments related to API RP 2GEO: A commenter requested
BSEE to verify that all methodologies outlined in API RP 2GEO are
equally acceptable
[[Page 35322]]
to BSEE and may be utilized or applied to be compliant with either one
or both such guidance documents within the discretion of operator.
Response: The API adopted, with modifications, ISO 19901-4:2003 as
API RP 2GEO. Industry has supported and maintained the minimum criteria
in the combination of ISO 19901-4:2003 and API RP 2GEO for over 20
years. BSEE declines to consider them as mere ``guidance documents'' to
be used within the discretion of operators, as the commenter suggests.
Such an approach would hamstring design criteria for geotechnical and
foundation design considerations and ignore good operating practices
achieved over the last 10 years and is not consistent with the approach
prescribed by the NTTAA. BSEE also declines to identify all
methodologies set out in API-RP-2GEO standard as ``equally acceptable''
because general methodological information is currently available in
API-RP-2GEO itself.
Summary of comments related to API Bulletin 2 INT-DG and API
Bulletin 2 INT-EX: A few commenters recommended that BSEE remove from
the regulations the incorporation by reference to API Bulletin 2 INT-DG
and API Bulletin 2 INT-EX since the proposed rule had proposed to
incorporate by reference API RP 2RIM, API RP 2FSIM, API RP 2MIM, API RP
2SIM. The provisions in API Bulletin 2 INT-DG and API Bulletin 2 INT-EX
have been incorporated into those four standards.
Response: BSEE appreciates the clarification and will remove API
Bulletin 2 INT-DG and API Bulletin 2 INT-EX from the regulations as
part of the final rule. This rule also removes API Bulletin 2INT-MET,
Interim Guidance on Hurricane Conditions in the Gulf of Mexico, from
the regulations since this rule incorporates by reference API RP 2MET
into the regulations for the first time.
Summary of comments related to consistency between the new API RP
2SIM and newer edition of API RP 2A-WSD, and Sec. 250.920: A few
commenters noted that there are clear linkages between API RP 2A-WSD
and API RP 2SIM, for example there are API RP 2A-WSD sections that
direct users to provisions in 2SIM for the assessment of existing
structures. The commenter stated that the update to the newer edition
of API RP 2A-WSD, as well as the incorporation by reference to the new
API RP 2SIM, will disrupt some of the language in Sec. 250.920, which
must be reconciled by replacing the reference to Section 17 on platform
assessments and Section 15 on platform re-use in the previous edition
of API RP 2A-WSD with the applicable sections in API RP 2SIM. The
commenter also stated that API RP 2SIM now addresses platform
assessments of existing platforms and platform re-use, which are no
longer addressed in the newer edition of API RP 2A-WSD.
Response: BSEE appreciates the clarification provided by this
comment and makes the appropriate changes to Sec. 250.920. In
addition, while not recommended by the commenter, BSEE updates Sec.
250.919, which also addresses assessments of existing platforms.
Details regarding the update to these regulatory sections are discussed
below in Section III. Section-by-Section Summary and Responses to
Comments on the Proposed Rule.
Crane-Related Comments
Summary of comments related to API Standard 2CCU: A few commenters
recommended that BSEE not incorporate by reference API Standard 2CCU
into the regulations, because incorporating it will make it the sole
applicable standard in the regulations pertaining to operating and
maintaining offshore cargo carrying units. The commenters noted that
the standard was developed as guidance for the U.S. to complement other
international standards. Incorporating it by reference will make 2CCU
the only standard to comply with. However, there are other standards
(industry and company standards) that are used in industry and meet the
operational and safety goals necessary for operations. BSEE should not
adopt this sole standard without further consideration of the
appropriate suite of both domestic and international standards
applicable in this space. The commenters urged BSEE to withdraw the
current listing of 2CCU from this rule and engage in additional
discussion on what could be a more appropriate approach to meet the
goals sought by BSEE.
Response: BSEE agrees with the commenters and plans to conduct a
broader identification and evaluation of standards, both domestic and
international, that will be appropriate to incorporate by reference to
ensure safe operations and maintenance of offshore cargo carrying units
on the OCS.
III. Section-by-Section Summary and Responses to Comments on the
Proposed Rule
BSEE is finalizing revisions to the following regulations:
Subpart A--General
Sec. 250.198 Documents incorporated by Reference.
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to make extensive changes to Sec. 250.198, which
currently incorporates by reference 127 documents into the regulations
under part 250. These changes include:
<bullet> incorporating by reference 24 new standards;
<bullet> updating 40 standards and removing 10 standards currently
incorporated by reference into the regulations;
<bullet> replacing the numbered list of API standards incorporated
by reference in Sec. 250.198 with a more user-friendly table organized
by category and standard number, which will make it easier to locate
the API standards that BSEE incorporates by reference; and
<bullet> renumbering the regulatory citations for the AGA and API
standards to account for all the documents that will be incorporated by
reference into the regulations for the first time.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE received and considered many comments on the standards
mentioned in Sec. 250.198 of the proposed rule. BSEE is finalizing the
updates it had included in the proposed rule, except for the following
changes:
<bullet> Incorporating by reference API MPMS Chapter 2.2E, Part 1,
API MPMS Chapter 2.2F, Part 2, and API Standard 2CCU for the first time
into the regulations.
<bullet> Removing the references to API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2,
parts 1 through 3.
<bullet> Incorporating updates to API Spec 2C (from the sixth to
eighth edition) and API RP 2D (from the sixth to the seventh edition).
<bullet> Preserving the incorporation by reference of API Bulletin
2INT-DG and API Bulletin 2INT-EX in paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198.
<bullet> Incorporating updates to API Standard 2RD from the first
to second edition. Unrelated to public comments, BSEE will also take
the following actions as part of the final rule:
<bullet> Adding recent reaffirmation dates to certain standards
that were mentioned in the proposed rule, which include:
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 7.1--Temperature Determination-Liquid-in-Glass
Thermometers, Second Edition, August 2017; reaffirmed May 2024
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 12--Calculation of Petroleum Quantities, Section
2--Calculation of Petroleum Quantities Using Dynamic Measurement
[[Page 35323]]
Methods and Volumetric Correction Factors, Part 4--Calculation of Base
Prover Volumes by the Waterdraw Method, First Edition, December 1997;
reaffirmed September 2014, reaffirmed January 2022
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 21--Flow Measurement Using Electronic Metering
Systems, Section 2--Electronic Liquid Volume Measurement Using Positive
Displacement and Turbine Meters; First Edition, June 1998; reaffirmed
October 2016, reaffirmed December 2023
[cir] API RP 2556, Recommended Practice for Correcting Gauge Tables for
Incrustation, Second Edition, August 1993; reaffirmed November 2013;
reaffirmed November 2023
The following table lists those standards that will be renumbered
in the final rule and their paragraph numbers in the existing
regulations, the proposed rule, and the final rule:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Existing paragraph Proposed rule paragraph Final rule paragraph
Standard title in Sec. 250.198 number in Sec. number in Sec. number in Sec.
-----------------------------------------------250.198------------------250.198------------------250.198--------
AGA Report No. 7..................... (b)(1).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
AGA Report No. 8, Part 1............. No reference........... (b)(2) and (b)(3).
-------------------------------------------------
AGA Report No. 8, Part 2
AGA Report No. 9..................... (b)(2) and (b)(3)...... (b)(4) and (b)(5).
AGA Report No. 10
-------------------------------------------------
AGA Report No. 11.................... No reference........... (b)(6).
-------------------------------------------------
API MPMS Chapter 1................... (e)(7) to (e)(9)....... (e)(1)................. (e)(1)(i)(A).
API MPMS Chapter 2, Section 2A (e)(2)................. (e)(1)(ii)(A).
API MPMS Chapter 2, Section 2B (e)(3)................. (e)(1)(ii)(B).
API MPMS Chapter 2.2E................ No reference........... (e)(4) and (e)(5)...... Removed.
API MPMS Chapter 2.2F
API MPMS Chapter 3.1A................ (e)(10) and (e)(11).... (e)(6) and (e)(7)...... (e)(1)(iii)(A) to
(e)(1)(iii)(B).
API MPMS Chapter 3, Section 1B
API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 1........ (e)(12) to (e)(18)..... (e)(8) to (e)(14)...... (e)(1)(iv)(A) to
(e)(1)(iv)(G).
API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 2
API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 4
API MPMS Chapter 4.5
API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 6
API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 7
API MPMS Chapter 4.8
API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 9, Part 2 No reference........... (e)(15)................ (e)(1)(iv)(H).
API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 1........ (e)(19) to (e)(25)..... (e)(16) to (e)(22)..... (e)(1)(v)(A) to
(e)(1)(v)(G).
API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 2
API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 3
API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 4
API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 5
API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 6
API MPMS Chapter 5.8
API MPMS Chapter 6.1................. (e)(26) to (e)(28)..... (e)(23) to (e)(25)..... (e)(1)(vi)(A) to
(e)(1)(vi)(C).
API MPMS Chapter 6, Section 6
API MPMS Chapter 6, Section 7
API MPMS Chapter 7.1................. No reference........... (e)(26) and (e)(27).... (e)(1)(vii)(A) and
(e)(1)(vii)(B).
API MPMS Chapter 7.3
-------------------------------------------------
API MPMS Chapter 7................... (e)(29)................ Removed.
-------------------------------------------------
API MPMS Chapter 8.1................. (e)(30) and (e)(31).... (e)(28) and (e)(29).... (e)(1)(viii)(A) and
(e)(1)(viii)(B).
API MPMS Chapter 8.2
API MPMS Chapter 8.3................. No reference........... (e)(30)................ (e)(1)(viii)(C).
API MPMS Chapter 9.1................. (e)(32) and (e)(33).... (e)(31) and (e)(32).... (e)(1)(ix)(A) and
(e)(1)(ix)(B).
API MPMS Chapter 9.2
API MPMS Chapter 9.4................. No reference........... (e)(33)................ (e)(1)(ix)(C).
API MPMS Chapter 10, Section 1....... (e)(34) to (e)(38)..... (e)(32) to (e)(36)..... (e)(1)(x)(A) to
(e)(1)(x)(E).
API MPMS Chapter 10.2
API MPMS Chapter 10.3
API MPMS Chapter 10.4
API MPMS Chapter 10.9
API MPMS Chapter 11.1................ (e)(39) to (e)(41)..... (e)(39) to (e)(41)..... (e)(1)(xi)(A) to
(e)(1)(xi)(C).
API MPMS Chapter 11, Section 1
API MPMS Chapter 11.2.2
API MPMS Chapter 11, Section 2, Part (e)(42)................ (e)(42)................ (e)(1)(xi)(D).
2.
API MPMS, Chapter 12, Section 2, Part (e)(43) to (e)(45)..... No reference........... (e)(1)(xii)(A) to
1. (e)(1)(xii)(C).
API MPMS, Chapter 12, Section 2, Part
2
API MPMS, Chapter 12, Section 2, Part
3
API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, Part (e)(46)................ (e)(44)................ (e)(1)(xii)(D).
4.
API MPMS Chapter 12.2................ No reference........... (e)(43)................ (e)(1)(xii)(E).
API MPMS Chapter 14.1................ No reference........... (e)(46)................ (e)(1)(xiii)(A).
API MPMS Chapter 14.3.1.............. (e)(47) to (e)(50)..... (e)(46) to (e)(49)..... (e)(1)(xiii)(B) to
(e)(1)(xiii)(E).
[[Page 35324]]
API MPMS Chapter 14.3.2
API MPMS 14.3.3
API MPMS Chapter 14.5/GPA Standard
2172-09
-------------------------------------------------
API MPMS Chapter 14, Section 6....... (e)(51)................ Removed.
-------------------------------------------------
API MPMS Chapter 14, Section 8....... (e)(52) and (e)(53).... (e)(50) and (e)(51).... (e)(1)(xiii)(F) and
(e)(1)(xiv)(A).
API MPMS Chapter 20, Section 1
API MPMS Chapter 20.3................ No reference........... (e)(52) and (e)(53).... (e)(1)(xiv)(B) and
(e)(1)(xiv)(C).
API MPMS Chapter 20.5
--------------------------------------------------
API MPMS Chapter 21, Section 1....... (e)(54) to (e)(56) (e)(1)(xv)(A) to
(e)(1)(xv)(C).
--------------------------------------------------
API MPMS Chapter 21, Section 2
API MPMS Chapter 21, Addendum to
Section 2.
--------------------------------------------------
API RP 2A-WSD........................ (e)(57) (e)(2)(i)(A).
--------------------------------------------------
API Spec. 2C......................... (e)(81)................ (e)(58)................ (e)(2)(i)(B).
API RP 2D............................ (e)(58) and (e)(59).... (e)(60) and (e)(61).... (e)(2)(i)(C) and
(e)(2)(i)(D).
API RP 2FPS
API RP 2FSIM......................... No reference........... (e)(62) and (e)(63).... (e)(2)(i)(E) and
(e)(2)(i)(F).
API RP 2GEO
API RP 2I............................ (e)(60)................ (e)(64)................ (e)(2)(i)(G).
API RP 2MET.......................... No reference........... (e)(65) and (e)(66).... (e)(2)(i)(H) and
(e)(2)(i)(I).
API RP 2MIM
ANSI/API RP 2N....................... (e)(61) and (e)(62).... (e)(67) and (e)(68).... (e)(2)(i)(J) and
(e)(2)(i)(K).
API RP 2RD
API RP 2RIM.......................... No reference........... (e)(69) and (e)(70).... (e)(2)(i)(L) and
(e)(2)(i)(M).
API RP 2SIM
API RP 2SK........................... (e)(63) to (e)(65)..... (e)(71) to (e)(73)..... (e)(2)(i)(N) to
(e)(2)(i)(P).
API RP 2SM
API RP 2T
API Specification 6A................. (e)(82) to (e)(87)..... (e)(74) to (e)(79)..... (e)(2)(i)(Q) to
(e)(2)(i)(V).
API Standard 6AV1
API STD 6AV2
API Specification 6D
API Spec 11D1
ANSI/API Spec 14A
API RP 14B........................... (e)(66) to (e)(72)..... (e)(80) to (e)(86)..... (e)(2)(i)(W) to
(e)(2)(i)(CC).
API RP 14C
API RP 14E
API RP 14F
API RP 14FZ
API RP 14G
API RP 14J
API Spec 16A......................... (e)(88) to (e)(90)..... (e)(87) to (e)(89)..... (e)(2)(i)(DD) to
(e)(2)(i)(FF).
API Spec 16C
API Spec 16D
API RP 16ST.......................... No reference........... (e)(90)................ No reference.
--------------------------------------------------
API Specification 17D................ (e)(91) (e)(2)(i)(GG).
--------------------------------------------------
API RP 17H........................... (e)(73)................ (e)(92)................ (e)(2)(i)(HH).
API Spec 17J......................... (e)(92)................ (e)(93)................ (e)(2)(i)(II).
API Spec 20E......................... No reference........... (e)(94) and (e)(95).... (e)(2)(i)(JJ) and
(e)(2)(i)(KK).
API Spec 20F
API Standard 53...................... (e)(94)................ (e)(96)................ (e)(2)(i)(LL).
API RP 65............................ (e)(74)................ (e)(97)................ (e)(2)(i)(MM).
-------------------------------------------------
API RP 86............................ (e)(76)................ Removed.
-------------------------------------------------
API Standard 65, Part 2.............. (e)(95)................ (e)(98)................ (e)(2)(i)(NN).
API RP 75............................ (e)(75)................ (e)(99)................ (e)(2)(i)(OO).
API RP 90............................ (e)(77)................ (e)(100)............... (e)(2)(i)(PP).
API RP 500........................... (e)(78) and (e)(79).... (e)(101) and (e)(102).. (e)(2)(ii)(A) and
(e)(2)(ii)(B).
API RP 505
API 510.............................. (e)(1) and (e)(2)...... (e)(103) and (e)(104).. (e)(2)(ii)(C) and
(e)(2)(ii)(D).
API 570
-------------------------------------------------
API Standard 2552.................... (e)(96)................ Removed.
-------------------------------------------------
API Standard 2555.................... (e)(97)................ (e)(105)............... (e)(2)(iii)(A).
[[Page 35325]]
API RP 2556.......................... (e)(80)................ (e)(106)............... (e)(2)(iii)(B).
API Spec Q1.......................... (e)(93)................ (e)(107)............... (e)(2)(iv)(A).
API Bulletin 2INT-DG................. (e)(3) and (e)(4)...... (e)(108) and (e)(109).. Removed.
API Bulletin 2INT-EX
-------------------------------------------------
API Bulletin 2INT-MET................ (e)(5)................. Removed.
-------------------------------------------------
API Bulletin 92L..................... (e)(6)................. (e)(110)............... (e)(2)(v)(A).
--------------------------------------------------
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, (f)(3) (f)(3)(i).
Section VIII.
--------------------------------------------------
ISO/IEC (International (j)(1) (k)(1).
Electrotechnical Commission) 17011.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
GPA Standard 2198-16................. No reference........... (j)(1) to (j)(3).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
GPA Standard 2261-20
GPA Standard 2286-14
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Summary of Comments: A few commenters recommended that BSEE not
incorporate API MPMS Chapter 2.2E, Part 1, and API MPMS Chapter 2.2F,
Part 2 as there is limited/no need to incorporate these standards by
reference for tanks which are not used offshore.
Response: BSEE agrees with the commenters' observations on the use,
or the lack thereof, of horizontal cylindrical tanks on the OCS.
Therefore, the final rule does not incorporate by reference these two
measurement standards into the regulations.
Summary of Comments: A few commenters noted that several oil and
gas measurement-related standards referenced in the proposed rule have
had additional reaffirmations made by the API.
Response: All the standards that the commenters identified were, in
fact, published documents. Other than API RP 2556, which was reaffirmed
in November of 2023, none of the publications contained the additional
reaffirmation dates that the commenters recommended BSEE acknowledge.
In accordance with paragraph (i) of 1 CFR 51.7(a)(2), a publication is
eligible for incorporation by reference if it is published data. While
reviewing this comment, BSEE was also able to identify additional
recent reaffirmation dates for other standards mentioned in the
proposed rule, including API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, API MPMS
Chapter 21, Section 1, and API MPMS Chapter 21, Section 2, which will
be acknowledged as part of this final rule.
Summary of Comments: In the proposed rule, BSEE had proposed to
incorporate by reference for the first time API MPMS Chapter 12.2 and
remove API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, parts 1, 2, and 3 since API had
withdrawn these three standards and replaced them with API MPMS Chapter
12.2. A few commenters requested BSEE to consider grandfathering
existing measurement systems, as immediate industrywide implementation
will require significant time due to limitations on manufacturer
development and availability of flow computer systems.
Response: BSEE agrees with the commenter that there are limitations
on the availability of equipment for existing FMPs on the OCS that will
be required to immediately comply with API MPMS Chapter 12.2 by August
10, 2026. There are currently 201 active oil royalty FMPs and 445
active royalty meters on the OCS. BSEE anticipates it will take at most
5 years for operators to assess those existing measurement systems and
acquire the proper equipment to comply with API MPMS Chapter 12.2.
Therefore, BSEE is delaying compliance with API MPMS Chapter 12.2 for
flow computer systems at BSEE designated FMPs in existence as of August
10, 2026 until August 11, 2031. During that delay period, but no later
than August 11, 2031, existing measurement systems must comply with API
MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, parts 1, 2, and 3 in lieu of API MPMS
Chapter 12.2, but only until August 11, 2031. Measurement systems on
the OCS in existence prior to August 10, 2026 must be in compliance
with API MPMS Chapter 12.2 by August 11, 2031. BSEE must continue to
incorporate by reference these documents into the regulations if it is
allowing BSEE-designated, existing FMPs to comply with these documents.
Summary of Comments: A few commenters recommended that BSEE remove
from the regulations the incorporation by reference to API Bulletin 2
INT-DG and API Bulletin 2 INT-EX since the proposed rule had proposed
to incorporate by reference API RP 2RIM, API RP 2FSIM, API RP 2MIM, API
RP 2SIM. The provisions in API Bulletin 2 INT-DG and API Bulletin 2
INT-EX have been incorporated into those four standards.
Response: BSEE agrees with the commenters and is removing API
Bulletin 2 INT-DG and API Bulletin 2 INT-EX from the regulations as
part of the final rule.
BSEE did not receive any comments on its proposal to incorporate
updates to API Spec 2C (from the sixth to eighth edition) and API RP 2D
(from the sixth to the seventh edition). However, as part of that
proposal, BSEE did not propose any provisions that will clarify how
operators must comply with the newer editions of these standards. For
example, how should cranes that existed prior to the publication of
these more recent documents comply with the newer editions? BSEE's
existing regulations in paragraphs (c) and (d) of Sec. 250.108 What
requirements must I follow for cranes and other material-handling
equipment? provide that clarification. Should BSEE provide a similar
clarification for the newer editions of API Spec 2C and API RP 2D? Are
there any other standards applicable to cranes that BSEE should
consider incorporating by reference? BSEE will
[[Page 35326]]
repropose the incorporation of updates to API Spec 2C and API RP 2D,
address these types of questions, and seek the public's input in a
future rulemaking.
BSEE also did not receive any comments on its proposal to
incorporate updates to API Standard 2RD from the first to second
edition. As discussed later below in the in the section titled Sec.
250.733 What are the requirements for a surface BOP stack?, BSEE needs
more time to perform additional evaluations on API Standard 2RD to
address concerns about the availability of clear guidance on how to
properly select any of the four design methods contained within API
Standard 2RD for a riser system. Accordingly, BSEE will not finalize
the proposed incorporation of API Standard 2RD at this time and will
make final decisions as to whether to incorporate some or all of this
standard in a final rule at a later date. Please refer to discussion
below under the Sec. 250.733 What are the requirements for a surface
BOP stack? section for more details regarding this issue.
Subpart D--Oil and Gas Drilling Operations
Sec. 250.470 What additional information must I submit with my APD for
Arctic OCS exploratory drilling operations?
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update paragraph (g) of Sec. 250.470 by changing
an existing reference from API RP 2N to ANSI/API RP 2N, to align with
the title of the document as incorporated in paragraph (e) of Sec.
250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section and is
including the proposed language in the final rule without change.
Subpart G--Well Operations and Equipment
Sec. 250.730 What are the general requirements for BOP systems and
system components?
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update paragraph (a)(2) of Sec. 250.730 by
changing existing references from ANSI/API Spec. 6A to API
Specification 6A, ANSI/API Spec. 16A to API Spec 16A, ANSI/API Spec.
16C to API Spec 16C, and ANSI/API Spec 17D to API Specification 17D to
align with the title of the documents as incorporated in Sec. 250.198
paragraph (e). BSEE also proposed adding references to API Spec 20E and
API Spec 20F as new paragraphs (a)(2)(vi) and (vii) of Sec. 250.730 to
align with the incorporation by reference of these standards for the
time in paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section and is
including the proposed language in the final rule without change.
Sec. 250.733 What are the requirements for a surface BOP stack?
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update paragraph (b) of Sec. 250.733 by changing
an existing reference from API RP 2RD to API Standard 2RD, to align
with the title of the document as incorporated in paragraph (e) of
Sec. 250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section.
However, BSEE needs more time to perform additional evaluations on API
Standard 2RD. This standard addresses structural analysis procedures,
design guidelines, component selection criteria, and typical designs
for all new riser systems used on floating production systems and
tension-leg platforms. The presence of riser systems within a floating
production system has a direct and often significant effect on the
design of all other major equipment subsystems. This document includes
recommendations on:
(1) Configurations and components;
(2) General design considerations based on environmental and
functional requirements; and
(3) Materials considerations in riser design.
API Standard 2RD also includes multiple design methods for riser
systems that are in addition to what is already provided in API RP 2RD.
The design method in API RP 2RD, known as the working stress design, is
based on the principles of limiting stresses in the risers and related
components under normal, extreme, and accidental conditions. The
additional design methods in API Standard 2RD are all based on good
engineering practices and are meant to provide for more accurate
designs. However, API Standard 2RD does not provide guidelines for
selecting the appropriate design method for a given project.
Accordingly, BSEE will not finalize the proposed incorporation of API
Standard 2RD at this time and will not include the proposed regulatory
changes to Sec. 250.733 in this final rule. BSEE will make final
decisions as to whether to incorporate some or all of this standard in
a final rule at a later date.
Sec. 250.750 What are the coiled tubing requirements?
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to add paragraph (c) to Sec. 250.750 to clarify that
operators must follow API RP 16ST. This proposed change will align with
the incorporation by reference of this standard for the first time in
paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section.
However, BSEE needs more time to perform additional evaluations on API
RP 16ST, particularly with respect to industry's implementation of
certain provisions in the document. BSEE may consider API RP 16ST in a
future rulemaking after evaluating these implementation issues.
Subpart H--Oil and Gas Production Safety Systems
Sec. 250.800 General
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update paragraph (c) of Sec. 250.800 by changing
an existing reference from API RP 2RD to API Standard 2RD, to align
with the title of the document as incorporated in paragraph (e) of
Sec. 250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section.
However, BSEE is not updating API RP 2RD to API Standard 2RD as part of
this final rule, as explained in the Sec. 250.733 What are the
requirements for a surface BOP stack? section above. Therefore, the
final rule will not include the update paragraph (c) of Sec. 250.800.
Sec. 250.802 Requirements for SPPE
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update paragraphs (a) and (c) of Sec. 250.802 by
changing existing references from ANSI/API Spec. 6A to API
Specification 6A and from API Spec 6AV1 to API Standard 6AV1, to align
with the titles of these documents as incorporated in paragraph (e) of
Sec. 250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section and is
including the proposed language in the final rule without change.
Sec. 250.803 What SPPE failure reporting procedures must I follow?
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update paragraph (a) of Sec. 250.803 by changing
an existing reference from ANSI/API Spec 6A to
[[Page 35327]]
API Specification 6A, to align with the title of the document as
incorporated in paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section and is
including the proposed language in the final rule without change.
Sec. 250.833 Specification for Underwater Safety Valves (USVs)
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update the introductory paragraph of Sec. 250.833
by changing existing references from ANSI/API Spec 6A to API
Specification 6A and from API Spec 6AV1 to API Standard 6AV1, to align
with the titles of these documents as incorporated in paragraph (e) of
Sec. 250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE received and considered a comment on this section. However,
BSEE did not agree with the comment as explained above in section II.
Discussion of Public Comments on the Proposed Rule and is including the
proposed language in the final rule without change.
Summary of comment: A few commenters recommended that, in
conjunction with BSEE's proposal to update the incorporation by
reference of API Specification 17D to the Third Edition, API
Specification 6A to the Twenty First Edition, and API Standard 6AV1 to
the Third Edition into the regulations, BSEE should remove the
reference to API Specification 6A in Sec. Sec. 250.833 and 250.834 but
maintain the reference to API Standard 6AV1. The commenter explained
that the Second Edition of API Spec 17D required USV monogramming under
the Twentieth Edition of API Specification 6A. However, the updated,
Third Edition of API Specification 17D allows for USVs to be
monogrammed under that standard, and its monogramming requirements are
the same as API Standard 6AV1. The monogramming requirements contained
within the newer, Twenty First Edition of API Specification 6A are not
the same as the new editions of API Specification 17D and API Standard
6AV1. Therefore, there will be conflicts in the regulations by
maintaining the reference to API Specification 6A in Sec. Sec. 250.833
and 250.834.
Response: BSEE disagrees with the commenters' recommendation to
remove the reference to API Specification 6A in Sec. 250.833. API
Specification 6A is not mentioned in Sec. 250.834. Sections 250.802
and 250.803 reference API Specification 6A within the context of USVs.
Therefore, for consistency, it will not be appropriate to remove the
reference to 6A in Sec. 250.833, as this section also addresses USVs.
API Spec 17D is not currently referenced in the regulations for USVs.
Its reference pertains only to those regulations in part 250 that
address Blowout Preventers. BSEE considered the option of replacing the
reference of API Specification 6A in Sec. 250.833 with API Spec 17D.
However, the requirements in API Spec 17D that pertain to USVs are not
as stringent, and thus, not as robust as the requirements in API
Specification 6A. Existing regulations at Sec. 250.801 already provide
a process to forgo monogramming of safety and pollution prevention
equipment, including USVs, if an operator chooses to pursue that
option.
Sec. 250.851 Pressure Vessels (Including Heat Exchangers) and Fired
Vessels
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update paragraph of (a)(1)(i) of Sec. 250.851 by
changing an existing reference from ANSI/ASME Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code to ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, to align with the
titles of these documents as incorporated in paragraph (f) of Sec.
250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section and is
including the proposed language in the final rule without change.
Sec. 250.873 Subsea Gas Lift Requirements
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update paragraph (b) of Sec. 250.873 by changing
existing references from ANSI/API Spec. 6A to API Specification 6A and
from API Spec 6AV1 to API Standard 6AV1, to align with the titles of
these documents as incorporated in paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section and is
including the proposed language in the final rule without change.
Sec. 250.874 Subsea Water Injection Systems
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update paragraph (g)(2) of Sec. 250.874by
changing an existing reference from ANSI/API Spec. 6A to API
Specification 6A and from API Spec. 6AV1 to API Standard 6AV1, to align
with the titles of these documents as incorporated in paragraph (e) of
Sec. 250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section and is
including the proposed language in the final rule without change.
Subpart I--Platforms and Structures
Sec. 250.901 What industry standards must your platform meet?
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to revise the references in paragraphs (a) and (d) of
Sec. 250.901 from API RP 2RD to API Standard 2RD, to align with the
title of this document as proposed for incorporation in paragraph (e)
of Sec. 250.198. BSEE also proposed to add API RP 2FSIM, API RP 2GEO,
API RP 2MET, API RP 2MIM, API RP 2RIM, and API RP 2SIM to paragraph (a)
Sec. 250.901, and add API RP 2FSIM, API RP 2GEO, API RP 2MET, API RP
2SIM, API RP 2MIM, and API RP 2RIM to paragraph (d) of Sec. 250.901,
to align with the incorporation by reference of these standards for the
time in paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198. BSEE will also be removing API
Bulletin 2INT-MET, Interim Guidance on Hurricane Conditions in the Gulf
of Mexico, from the regulations since the Bureau will be incorporating
by reference API RP 2MET into the regulations for the first time.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section or
BSEE's proposal to incorporate by reference API RP 2FSIM, API RP 2GEO,
API RP 2MET, API RP 2SIM, API RP 2MIM, and API RP 2RIM into the
regulations for the first time. Therefore, the Bureau will add
references to these documents in this section as part of the final
rule. However, BSEE will not revise the references in paragraphs (a)
and (d) from API RP 2RD to API Standard 2RD since the Bureau is not
updating the incorporation by reference of this standard at this time.
The final rule also removes the references to API Bulletin 2 INT-DG
and API Bulletin 2 INT-EX from the Industry Table of paragraph (d).
BSEE received a general comment explaining that the provisions in API
Bulletin 2 INT-DG and API Bulletin 2 INT-EX have been incorporated into
API RP 2RIM, API RP 2FSIM, API RP 2MIM, API RP 2SIM.
In the final rule, BSEE will also renumber the following regulatory
designations to certain standards in the Industry Table of paragraph
(d) in the proposed rule due to the removal of API Bulletin 2 INT-DG,
API Bulletin 2 INT-
[[Page 35328]]
EX, and API Bulletin 2INT-MET from the regulations:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Existing paragraph Proposed rule paragraph Final rule paragraph
Standard title in Sec. 250.901(d) number in Sec. number in Sec. number in Sec.
250.901(d) 250.901(d) 250.901(d)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
API Bulletin 2INT-DG................. (d)(3) and (d)(4) Removed.
API Bulletin 2INT-EX................. .......................
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
API Bulletin 2INT-MET................ (d)(5)................. Removed.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
API RP 2A-WSD........................ (d)(6) to (d)(23)...... (d)(5) to (d)(22)...... (d)(3) to (d)(20).
ASTM Standard C 33-07................
ASTM Standard C 94/C 94M-07..........
ASTM Standard C 150-07...............
ASTM Standard C 330-05...............
ASTM Standard C 595-08...............
AWS D1.1.............................
AWS D1.4.............................
AWS D3.6M............................
NACE Standard RP 0176-2003...........
ACI 357R-84..........................
API RP 14J...........................
API RP 2FPS..........................
API RP 2RD...........................
API RP 2SK...........................
API RP 2T............................
API RP 2SM...........................
API RP 2I............................
API RP 2FSIM......................... No reference........... (d)(23) to (d)(29)..... (d)(20) to (d)(26).
API RP 2GEO..........................
API RP 2MET..........................
API RP 2SIM..........................
API RP 2MIM..........................
API RP 2RIM..........................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Finally, BSEE will not be updating the incorporation by reference
of API Standard 2RD to API RP 2RD as part of this final rule. As
previously mentioned in the discussion above regarding the final rule
revisions to Sec. 250.733 What are the requirements for a surface BOP
stack?, BSEE needs more time to perform additional evaluations on API
Standard 2RD to address concerns about the availability of clear
guidance on how to properly select any of the four design methods
contained within API Standard 2RD for a riser system. Accordingly, BSEE
is not finalizing the proposed incorporation of API Standard 2RD at
this time and will make final decisions as to whether to incorporate
some or all of this standard in a final rule at a later date.
Sec. 250.919 What in-service inspection requirements must I meet?
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE did not propose an update to Sec. 250.919 as part of the
proposed rule. However, BSEE did receive a comment and recommendation
on Sec. 250.920 that the Bureau agrees with that impacts certain
provisions in Sec. 250.919. Section 250.919 includes provisions
related to in-service inspection requirements; requirements for
assessment of fixed platforms; and analysis of platform cumulative
fatigue.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
The final rule removes references to API RP 2A-WSD in paragraph
(b)(2) of Sec. 250.919 and replaces it with a reference to Section 6.6
of API RP 2SIM. The final rule also adds a new paragraph (d), at the
end of Sec. 250.919 that clarifies the in-service inspection intervals
for offshore platforms in accordance with the table, i.e., Table 3, in
Section 6.5.3 of API RP 2SIM. Paragraph (d) clarifies that the operator
must follow the specific time interval from Table 3 that applies to its
platform based on the exposure category BSEE has accepted under Sec.
250.920 and the platform's survey level established in accordance with
Section 6.5 of API RP 2SIM. BSEE is not incorporating by reference
Section 6.5.2.2 (Risk Based Inspection Intervals) of API RP 2SIM, which
will also be stated in the new paragraph (d).
Summary of comments: A few commenters noted that there are clear
linkages between API RP 2A-WSD and API RP 2SIM which directs users to
provisions, including provisions about in-service inspections, in API
RP 2SIM for the assessment of existing structures. The commenters noted
that BSEE's update to the newer edition (i.e., Twenty Second Edition)
of API RP 2A-WSD, as well as the incorporation by reference to the new
edition (i.e., First Edition) of API RP 2SIM, will disrupt some of the
language in Sec. 250.920, which must be reconciled by replacing the
reference to Section 17 on platform assessments and Section 15 on
platform re-use in the previous edition of API RP 2A-WSD with the
applicable sections in API RP 2SIM. API RP 2SIM now addresses platform
assessments of existing platforms and platform re-use, which are no
longer addressed in the newer edition of API RP 2A-WSD.
Response: BSEE agrees with the issues identified and recommended
changes the commenters raise regarding proposed Sec. 250.920. These
issues also exist in Sec. 250.919. More specifically, the survey
intervals for offshore platforms have resided within Table 14.4.2-1 of
the Twenty First Edition of API RP 2A-WSD, which BSEE had already
incorporated by reference into the regulations. Table 14.4.2-1 and all
of Section 14 from API RP 2A-WSD, Twenty First Edition, were removed
and placed into API RP 2SIM, First Edition. Table 3 within Section
6.5.3 of API RP 2SIM is the same survey intervals from the old Table
14.4.2-1. In the final rule, BSEE will use the same survey intervals
[[Page 35329]]
that have been used historically, which are now in Table 3 of API RP
2SIM. Also, defining these survey intervals in regulation now will
allow NTL 2009-G32 to expire and will eliminate any confusion regarding
the use of difficult-to-regulate risk-based survey intervals (as
discussed in Section 6.5.2 of API RP 2SIM). The changes BSEE is making
to Sec. 250.919 are for consistency purposes, to ensure all the
regulations in 30 CFR part 250 align with BSEE's incorporation by
reference of the Twenty Second Edition of API RP 2A-WSD and the First
Edition of API RP 2SIM into the regulations.
Sec. 250.920 What are the BSEE requirements for assessment of fixed
platforms?
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE did not propose an update to Sec. 250.920 as part of the
proposed rule. However, BSEE did receive a comment and recommendation
about Sec. 250.920 and this section's relation to API RP 2A-WSD and
API RP 2SIM. Section 250.920 addresses the requirements an operator
must follow when assessing the structural performance of fixed
platforms considered to be at risk from a life-safety or consequences-
of-failure point of view, when subjected to fire, blasts, and
accidental loading events.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
The final rule replaces all applicable references to information
from the Twenty First Edition of API RP 2A-WSD contained throughout
Sec. 250.920 with references to information from the Twenty Second
Edition of API RP 2A-WSD and API RP 2SIM. More specifically, in
paragraph (a), BSEE is replacing the reference to Section 17.3 of API
RP 2A-WSD with a reference to Section 5.3.4 of API RP 2SIM, all
references to the term ``assessment categories'' with references to the
term ``exposure categories,'' and a reference to the term ``A-2 or A-3
assessment categories'' with a reference to the term ``L-2 or L-3
exposure categories.'' In paragraph (b), the final rule replaces the
reference to ``Sections 17.2.1 through 17.2.5 of API RP 2A-WSD'' with a
reference to ``Section 8.3 of API RP 2SIM.'' In paragraph (c), the
final rule replaces the reference to ``RP 2A-WSD'' with a reference to
``API RP 2SIM.'' In paragraph (d), the final rule replaces the
reference to ``API RP 2A-WSD Section 17.6'' with a reference to ``API
RP 2SIM Sections 9 through 12.'' In paragraph (e), the final rule
replaces the reference to ``API RP 2A-WSD'' with a reference to ``API
RP 2SIM.'' In paragraph (f), the final rule replaces the reference to
``Section 17, Assessment of Existing Platforms, of API RP 2A-WSD'' with
a reference to ``API RP 2SIM,'' and the reference to ``API RP 2A-WSD,
Section 15, Re-use'' with a reference to ``API RP 2A-WSD, Section 18,
Re-use.''
Summary of comments: As discussed earlier, a few commenters noted
that BSEE's update to the Twenty Second Edition of API RP 2A-WSD, as
well as the incorporation by reference to the First Edition of API RP
2SIM, will disrupt some of the language in Sec. 250.920, which must be
reconciled by replacing the reference to Section 17 on platform
assessments and Section 15 on platform re-use in the previous edition
of API RP 2A-WSD with the applicable sections in API RP 2SIM. API RP
2SIM now addresses platform assessments of existing platforms and
platform re-use, which are no longer addressed in the newer edition of
API RP 2A-WSD.
Response: BSEE agrees with the commenters' recommendation. The
applicable sections of the Twenty Second Edition of API RP 2A-WSD and
the First Edition of API RP 2SIM will be inserted to Sec. 250.920 as
described in the Summary of final rule revisions section above. For
example, as it pertains to paragraph (a), API transitioned the
assessment categories defined in Section 17.3 of the Twenty Second
Edition of API RP 2A-WSD to Section 5.3.4 of API RP 2SIM. As it
pertains to paragraph (d), API transitioned the Section 17.6 of API RP
2A-WSD, which addressed assessment of metocean, seismic, and ice
criteria/loads to Sections 9 through 12 of API RP 2SIM, which addresses
assessment of metocean, fatigue, seismic, and ice loading. As with the
changes to Sec. 250.919, the changes to Sec. 250.920 are for
consistency purposes, to ensure all the regulations in part 250 align
with BSEE's incorporation by reference of the Twenty Second Edition of
API RP 2A-WSD and the First Edition of API RP 2SIM into the
regulations.
Subpart J--Pipelines and Pipeline Rights-of-Way
Sec. 250.1002 Design Requirements for DOI Pipelines
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to update paragraph (b) of Sec. 250.1002 by changing
existing references from ANSI/API Spec. 6A to API Specification 6A,
ANSI/API Spec 6D to API Specification 6D, and API RP 2RD to API
Standard 2RD, to align with the titles of these documents as
incorporated in paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE did not receive any comments on this proposed section.
However, as previously discussed above, BSEE is not incorporating by
reference API Standard 2RD as part of the final rule. Therefore, the
reference to API RP 2RD will remain in the regulations and the final
rule does not change the existing reference to this standard in
paragraph (b) of Sec. 250.1002.
Subpart L--Oil and Gas Production Measurement, Surface Commingling, and
Security
Sec. 250.1202 Liquid Hydrocarbon Measurement
Summary of Proposed Rule Revisions
BSEE proposed to make extensive changes to Sec. 250.1202, which
included:
<bullet> Revising paragraph (a)(2) of Sec. 250.1202 by:
[cir] Changing existing references to three standards under Sec.
250.1202(a)(2) to align with updates to the incorporation by reference
of these standards in paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198:
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 8 to API MPMS Chapter 4.8;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 8 to API MPMS Chapter 5.8; and
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 11, Section 1 to API MPMS Chapter 11.1.
[cir] Adding references to 40 standards as new paragraphs under
Sec. 250.1202(a)(2) to either align with the incorporation by
reference of a standard for the first time, align with the update to
the existing incorporation by reference of a standard, or to clarify
the longstanding use of a standard that has already incorporated by
reference (without being updated) in paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198:
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 2, Section 2A;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 2, Section 2B;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 2.2E, Part 1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 2.2F, Part 2;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 3.1A;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 3, Section 1B;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 2;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 3, Section 1B;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 2;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 4;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4.5;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 6;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 7;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4.8;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 9, Part 2;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 2;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 3;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 4;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 5;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 6;
[[Page 35330]]
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 5.8;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 6.1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 6, Section 6;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 6, Section 7;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 7.1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 7.3;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 8.1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 8.2;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 8.3;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 9.1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 9.2;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 9.4;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 10, Section 1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 10.2;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 10.3;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 10.4;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 10.9;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 11, Section 1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 12.2;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, Part 4;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 20, Section 1;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 21, Section 2;
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 21, Addendum to Section 2;
[ssquf] API Standard 2555; and
[ssquf] API RP 2556.
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 11.1
[cir] Removing references to API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, Part 3
since this document was withdrawn and superseded by API MPMS Chapter
12.2;
[cir] Removing the reference to API RP 86 since the document has
been superseded by API MPMS Chapter 20.3; and
[cir] Renumbering the regulatory citations of the references under
Sec. 250.1202(a)(2) to accommodate for all the standards that would be
added to or removed from this section.
<bullet> Updating paragraph (a)(3) of Sec. 250.1202 by:
[cir] Changing existing references to two standards under Sec.
250.1202(a)(3) to align with updates to the incorporation by reference
of these standards in paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198:
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 8 to API MPMS Chapter 4.8; and
[ssquf] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 8 to API MPMS Chapter 5.8.
[cir] Removing the reference to API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2,
Part 3 since the document has been withdrawn and superseded by API MPMS
Chapter 12.2;
[cir] Adding references to API MPMS Chapter 11.2.2 and API MPMS
Chapter 11, Section 2, Part 2 to clarify the longstanding use of these
documents that have already been incorporated into the current
regulations;
[cir] Removing the reference to API RP 86 since the document has
been superseded by API MPMS Chapter 20.3; and
[cir] Renumbering the regulatory citations of the references under
Sec. 250.1202(a)(3) to accommodate for all the standards that would be
added to or removed from this section.
<bullet> Updating paragraph (5) of Sec. 250.1202(d) by replacing
the requirement for operators to submit copies of all meter proving
reports for royalty meters to the Regional Supervisor monthly within 15
days after the end of the month with a requirement for operators to use
procedures and proving or meter factors according to API MPMS Chapter
4, Section 1. This would clarify the longstanding use of this standard
that has already been incorporated into the current regulations:
<bullet> Updating paragraph (f)(1) of Sec. 250.1202 by:
[cir] Adding a reference to API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 4 to
clarify the longstanding use of this document that has already been
incorporated into the current regulations; and
[cir] Renumbering the regulatory citations of the references under
Sec. 250.1202(f)(1) to accommodate for the addition of API MPMS
Chapter 4, Section 4 to list of standards referenced in this section;
<bullet> Updating paragraph (g)(1) of Sec. 250.1202 by changing an
existing reference from API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 8 to API MPMS
Chapter 4.8 to align with updates to the incorporation by reference of
this standard in paragraph (e) of Sec. 250.198.
<bullet> Updating paragraph (h) of Sec. 250.1202 by adding a new
paragraph (5) under Sec. 250.1202(h) requiring operators to use
procedures and proving or meter factors according to API MPMS Chapter
4, Section 6, which would clarify the longstanding use of this standard
that has already been incorporated into the current regulations; and
finally
<bullet> Updating paragraph (l)(4) of Sec. 250.1202 by adding
references to API MPMS Chapter 2, Section 2A, API MPMS Chapter 2,
Section 2B, and API MPMS Chapter 3, Section 1B to the list of standards
operators must comply with, which would clarify the longstanding use of
these standards that have already been incorporated into the current
regulations.
Summary of Final Rule Revisions
BSEE received and considered many comments on the standards
mentioned in Sec. 250.1202 of the proposed rule. In the final rule,
BSEE is moving forward with the provisions it had proposed, except for
the following changes that were made in response to comments:
<bullet> Maintain the reference to API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2,
Part 3 and API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, Part 4 currently in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2) and add references to API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2,
parts 1 and 2 in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2) to clarify that flow computer
systems at BSEE designated FMPs in existence as of August 10, 2026 may
comply with API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, parts 1, 2, and 3 in lieu
of complying API MPMS Chapter 12.2 until no later than August 11, 2031.
However, those FMPs must be in compliance with API MPMS Chapter 12.2 by
August 11, 2031. The addition of API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, parts
1 and 2 to Sec. 250.1202(a)(2) will clarify the longstanding use of
these standards that have already been incorporated into the current
regulations.
<bullet> Not move forward with the Bureau's proposal to incorporate
by reference API MPMS Chapter 2.2E, Part 1 and API MPMS Chapter 2.2F,
Part 2 for the first time into the regulations.
In addition to the changes in response to comments, BSEE is also
taking the following actions as part of the final rule:
<bullet> Not moving forward with the change to an existing
reference in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2) from API MPMS Chapter 11, Section 1
to API MPMS Chapter 11.1. BSEE inadvertently included this change in
the proposed rule. A May 2019 addendum to API MPMS Chapter 11, Section
1 is being incorporated by reference as part of this rulemaking.
Therefore, BSEE will maintain the reference to this more current
standard in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2) and throughout Sec. 250.1202. The
existing edition of API MPMS Chapter 11.1 currently in the regulations,
which BSEE is maintaining as part of this final rule, was reaffirmed in
March 1997.
<bullet> Not moving forward with the update to paragraph (5) of
Sec. 250.1202(d), which will have replaced the requirement for
operators to submit copies of all meter proving reports for royalty
meters to the Regional Supervisor monthly within 15 days after the end
of the month with a requirement for operators to use procedures and
proving or meter factors according to API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 1.
BSEE inadvertently included this change in the proposed rule. The
existing reporting requirement is still appropriate to maintain because
Sec. 250.1202(d) addresses requirements for liquid hydrocarbon royalty
meter provings. API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 1 is already referenced in
paragraph (2) of Sec. 250.1202(a) and is merely an introduction to
proving systems.
[[Page 35331]]
<bullet> Modifying proposed paragraph (5) of Sec. 250.1202(d) to
clarify how BSEE views the applicability of API MPMS Chapter 4, Section
6 and its longstanding use in the regulations, which is already
incorporated into the current regulations. BSEE will clarify that
proving systems that employ the dual chronometry method of pulse
interpolation must be compliant with API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 6. The
revised language recognizes that not all offshore proving systems will
require the use of dual chronometry to achieve the required uncertainty
of <plus-minus>0.01 percent.
Aside from the changes just listed, BSEE is also making an
administrative correction in Sec. 250.1201 to eliminate confusion on
the proper way to interpret certain provisions in Sec. 250.1202. BSEE
is removing the term ``API MPMS'' from Sec. 250.1201, which is a
section that lists and defines certain terms used in Subpart L. Section
250.1201 defines ``API MPMS'' to mean the American Petroleum
Institute's Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards, chapters 1, 20,
and 21. It is not necessary to define the term API MPMS since existing
Sec. 250.1202 (and this rule) already specifies the API MPMS
publications operators must comply with for liquid hydrocarbon
measurement. There are some cases, however, particularly in Sec.
250.1202(b)(4)(i) and Sec. 250.1202(k)(1), where the term API MPMS is
used, but there is no reference to a specific API MPMS publication in
these paragraphs. A reader could interpret paragraphs (b)(4)(i) and
(k)(1) to mean that regulatory compliance would be achieved if an
operator follows API MPMS chapters 1, 20, and 21. Paragraphs (b)(4)(i)
and (k)(1), respectively, address the location of sampling points
immediately upstream or downstream of a meter or divert valve and the
sampling frequency for allocation meters. These topics are more
appropriately addressed in API MPMS chapters 8.1 and 8.2, and not
chapters 1, 20, or 21. Therefore, BSEE will clarify in the final rule
that, under paragraph (b)(4)(i), operators must comply with API MPMS
Chapter 8.2 and, under paragraph (k)(1), operators must comply with API
MPMS Chapter 8.1 or API MPMS Chapter 8.2. Furthermore, the references
to chapters 1, 20, and 21 in the definition of API MPMS does not
conform the OFR's drafting requirements for refencing a technical
document.
Finally, this final rule will reference 40 standards in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2) because a particular document is either being
incorporated by reference for the first time into the regulations, has
already been incorporated by reference into the regulations but is
being updated as part of this final rule, or BSEE is adding an express
reference to a standard to clarify the longstanding use of a document
that has already been incorporated into the current regulations and is
not being updated as part of this final rule. The standards being
referenced in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2) that are being incorporated by
reference for the first time into the regulations include:
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 9, Part 2;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 7.1;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 7.3;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 8.3;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 9.4; and
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 12.2.
The standards being referenced in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2), (b)(3),
(f)(1), (g), or (l)(4) that have already been incorporated into the
current regulations, but are being updated as part of this final rule
include:
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 3.1A;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 2;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 4.5;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 7;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 4.8;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 1;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 5.8;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 6.1;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 8.1;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 8.2;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 9.1;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 9.2;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 10.2;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 10.3;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 10.4;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 10.9;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 20, Section 1;
[cir] API Standard 2555; and
[cir] API RP 2556.
The standards being referenced in Sec. 250.1202(a)(2), (b)(3),
(f)(1), (h)(5), or (l)(4) merely to have an express reference that
clarifies the longstanding use of a document that has already been
incorporated into the current regulations, but is not being updated as
part of this final rule, include:
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 2, Section 2A;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 2, Section 2B;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 3, Section 1B;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 3.1A;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 1;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 2;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 4;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 4.5;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 4, Section 6;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 2;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 3;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 4;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 5, Section 5;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 6, Section 6;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 6, Section 7;
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 11.1
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, Part 1; and
[cir] API MPMS Chapter 12, Section 2, Part 2.
In the final rule, BSEE will also renumber the regulatory
designations to a majority of the standards referenced in Sec.
250.1202(a)(2) in the proposed rule due to the Bureau's decision:
<bullet> To not move forward w
[…truncated; see source link]Indexed from Federal Register on June 10, 2026.
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.