What Happens When OQ Rule Becomes A Federal Regulation?

摘要

The Operator Qualification (OQ) Rule that has already been over 11 years in the making—and expected to be enacted sometime next year—will significantly impact oil, gas, and liquid pipeline operators that are subject to federal pipeline safety standards. Several elements make the proposed OQ rule unique. It's the first instance in the pipeline safety area where negotiated rulemaking was involved. The concept behind negotiated rulemaking is that representatives of affected interests assemble to discuss a particular issue and all potential solutions, reach a consensus, and prepare a proposed rule for consideration by the enforcing agency.