New Approaches Needed in Managing PHMSA's Special Permits and Approvals Program

摘要

This report presents the results of our review of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administrations (PHMSA) Special Permits and Approvals Program. PHMSA is the lead agency responsible for regulating the safe transport of hazardous materials, including explosive, poisonous, corrosive, flammable, and radioactive substances. PHMSA regulates up to 1 million daily movements of hazardous materials. Many hazardous materials are transported under the terms and conditions of special permits and approvals, which provide relief or exceptions to the Hazardous Materials Regulations. This report summarizes the results of our review and transmits our recommendations to strengthen the Special Permits and Approvals Program by addressing the issues we presented in our testimony. A copy of our hearing statement is attached for your information. Our audit objectives were to evaluate the effectiveness of PHMSAs (1) policies and processes for reviewing and authorizing special permits and approvals, (2) coordination with the affected Operating Administration before issuing any of these special authorizations, and (3) oversight and enforcement of approved parties compliance with the terms and conditions of these authorizations.