Pipeline Operator and Contractor Compliance 49 CFR Part 199

Summary

Federal regulations require both liquid and gas pipeline operators and contractors of these pipeline operators to implement random drug and alcohol programs under 49 CFR Part 199. The required testing is applicable to employees providing covered functions which involve work on the pipeline, or storage facility or work performed in close proximity to the pipeline or storage facility.

What is a Covered Function?

Any individual who could or would perform an operation, maintenance, or emergency response function is subject to mandated testing and full implementation of Part 199. Only such functions as clerical, payroll and administrative duties not performed in conjunction with pipeline activities would be exempt from the regulation.

Requirements

Both operators and contractors must have formal anti-drug and alcohol misuse prevention plans that meet the test of Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), an agency of the DOT.  PHMSA monitors compliance with this regulation. In addition, operators and their contractors must conduct all mandated testing and compile all data quarterly and report all data semi-annually.

Types of Mandated Drug Testing

• Pre-Employment
• Reasonable Cause
• Post Accident
• Random
• Return to Duty
• Follow-Up

What Drugs are Included in the Testing Process?

• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• Amphetamine
• MDMA (Ecstacy)*
• Opiates including 6-Acetylmorphine (heroin)*
• PCP

* As of October 1, 2010

Random Selections

Federal regulations require the use of a scientifically valid selection method to comply with the random drug testing requirement.  The Transportation Advisor uses a nationally recognized software program for the selection process.  Selections from the random pool are pulled each quarter with a total of 25% of the pool selected and tested for drug use each year. 

Reasonable Suspicion Awareness Training

The PHMSA regulation requires that at least one supervisor for each operator or contractor (with 50 or fewer covered employees) must be trained in Reasonable Suspicion Awareness.  This training is designed to provide supervisors information regarding the signs and symptoms of drug and alcohol misuse. One hour on drug misuse and one hour regarding alcohol misuse is required. For operators and contractors with more than 50 covered employees, a minimum of two supervisors must be trained.  This training is included at no additional charge with enrollment in the PHMSA compliance program.

Our Service

The Transportation Advisor is a service agent that acts on your behalf to provide your company with a comprehensive compliance program.  The level of service that we provide is enhanced by the relationships we have developed with other service providers across the country.  Our extensive database of collection sites means that testing is local and convenient.  Our centralized Medical Review Officer provides a speedy turn around time for result reporting.  Results are sent via email.

Upon enrollment, you will receive a PHMSA policy, anti-drug and alcohol misuse and prevention plans, reasonable suspicion awareness training for supervisors and all of the necessary paperwork for the required pre-employment drug tests. 

The Transportation Advisor will draw quarterly selections from the random pool, coordinate all testing with the local medical facilities, prepare semi-annual reports and report to all applicable gas pipeline operators.

Most companies have a PHMSA compliance program up and running within a week.