Reinstatement of PHMSA Cylinder Relief for COVID-19

On September 13, 2021, PHMSA reinstated an extension for the requalification of cylinders containing Division 2.2 (non-flammable, non-toxic) gases. As a result of continued challenges introduced by the COVID-19 Delta variant, PHMSA indicated the medical and industrial gas industries are having difficulties obtaining qualified cylinders that are not due for reinspection. In a move similar to previous relief programs, PHMSA is extending the requalification of DOT-specification cylinders used to transport Division 2.2 gases for a period of up to 12 months through January 15, 2022. This step allows cylinders that were due for requalification prior to January 15, 2022, to extend the requalification date by an additional 12 months or to January 15, 2022, whichever is sooner.

For example:

A cylinder that was due for requalification on November 1, 2020, will now be required to be requalified by November 1, 2021 (an extension of 12 months).

A cylinder that was due for requalification by April 1, 2021, will now be required to be requalified by January 15, 2022 (an extension of 9.5 months).

The official release can be accessed from the PHMSA Website – Reinstatement of PHMSA Cylinder Relief for COVID-19.

Thank to Gene Guilford of the Institue of Hazardous Materials Managment for providing this update.