Natural Gas Master Meter Operators
Gas distribution may not be your primary business… But, it may be your responsibility.
Many property management groups, universities, and mobile home communities purchase natural gas from a utility and distribute that gas to individual units, buildings, or users. That natural gas distribution system may qualify as a “Master Meter” system as defined by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA):
Master Meter System means a pipeline system for distributing gas within, but not limited to, a definable area, such as a mobile home park, housing project, or apartment complex, where the operator purchases metered gas from an outside source for resale through a gas distribution pipeline system. The gas distribution pipeline system supplies the ultimate consumer who either purchases the gas directly through a meter or by other means, such as by rents. - 49 CFR § 191.3
Furthermore, Master Meter systems compliance initiatives can fall within the jurisdiction of the PHMSA AND your state’s utility regulatory authority, like a public utility commission.
What’s the Goal of Master Meter Regulations?
Safety is always the overarching goal when it comes to pipelines and natural gas. Regulators want to see that Master Meter owners and operators know the whereabouts of their natural gas systems and have a plan to keep those systems in good working order and are prepared in the event of an emergency.
Where Do Master Meter Operators Start?
The first step in establishing your system integrity and safety plan is identifying the locations and components of the system. From the Master Meter to your service meters and regulators, we are here to help you get that baseline established. Once your system is identified and located, a plan can be developed to continuously review and update your system conditions and maintain your records and stay in compliance.
Master Meter Operator services include:
- Master Meter Mapping
- Master Meter
- Building Regulators
- Building Flow Meters
- Service and System Isolation Valves
- System relief valves and vent locations
- Pipe size, material, and rating
- Photo document and map your service regulators
- System mapping and GIS locations
- Odorant Letter Request Coordination
- Operations and Maintenance Manual Support
- Bar Hole and Leak Testing
- Emergency Response Postings
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