25-12.040. Leak Surveys, Procedures and Classification

(1) Each operator shall perform periodic leakage surveys in accordance with the following schedule:

(a) A gas detector instrument survey shall be conducted at intervals not exceeding 15 months but at least once each calendar year in those portions of an operator’s service area, including:

1. Principal business districts, master meter systems, and places where the public is known to congregate frequently.

2. Where pipeline facilities, including service lines, are located under surfaces of such construction that little opportunity is afforded for a leak to vent safely.

(b) A gas detector instrument survey to locate leaks throughout areas not included in subsection (a) above, shall be conducted at intervals not exceeding 3 calendar years at intervals not exceeding 39 months on bare metallic, galvanized steel, coated tubing pipelines, and 5 calendar years at intervals not exceeding 63 months on the remaining pipeline system, or more frequently if experience indicates.

(2) The following leak classification system shall be used on all leak records and reports:

(a) “Grade 1 Leak” – a leak of gas that represents an existing or probable hazard to persons or buildings. In order to protect life and property, these leaks shall be repaired immediately and continuous action shall be taken until conditions are no longer hazardous.

(b) “Grade 2 Leak” – a leak that is not a threat to persons or property at the time of detection, but justifies scheduled repair based on potential future hazard. These leaks shall be repaired within 90 days from the date the leak was originally located, unless due to resurvey the leak was determined to be Grade 3 as defined in subsection (c), below. In determining the time period for repair, the following criteria should be taken into consideration:

1. Amount and migration of gas;

2. Proximity of gas to buildings and subsurface structures;

3. Extent of pavement;

4. Soil type and conditions, such as moisture and natural venting.

(c) “Grade 3 Leak” – a leak that is not a threat to persons and property and is not expected to become so. Above ground grade 3 leaks shall be repaired within 90 days from the date the leak was originally located unless the leak is upgraded or does not produce a positive leak indication when a soap and water solution, or its equivalent, is applied on suspected locations at operating pressure. Grade 3 leaks that are underground shall be reevaluated at least once every 6 months until repaired. The frequency of reevaluation shall be determined by the location and magnitude of the leak.

(3) All the repairs of leaks shall be checked by appropriate methods immediately after the repairs are completed. Where there is residual gas in the ground, a follow-up inspection using a gas detector instrument must be made as soon as the gas has had an opportunity to dissipate, but no later than one month for Grade 1 leaks and 6 months for Grade 2 leaks. The date and status of recheck shall be recorded on the leak repair records.

(4) If residual gas is detected on the follow-up inspection, continued monthly monitoring, not to exceed 45 days, and inspections shall be done until gas is no longer detected.

Rulemaking Authority 368.05(2) FS. Law Implemented 368.05(2) FS. History–New 9-21-74, Repromulgated 10-7-75, Amended 10-2-84, Formerly 25-12.40, Amended 1-7-92, 12-15-09, 3-2-17.