The American Society for Mechanical Engineers (ASME) B31Q is a widely used standard in the natural gas industry. It provides pipeline operators with guidance on establishing an effective OQ program, identifying abnormal operating conditions (AOCs) and span-of-control (SOCs) ratios, qualification intervals, and more.
In March of 2025, ASME released the seventh edition of B31Q, which introduces several important changes and will be fully in effect in September 2025.
If you’re using the latest edition of B31Q, you’ll want to keep reading to see how these changes may impact your OQ program.
Added Definitions
The latest edition of B31Q added four new words and definitions to its front matter: “may,” “shall,” “should,” and “pipe.” The first three new definitions help clarify the differences between a requirement, a recommendation, or just permission. By adding the term “pipe,” the B31Q committee aims to distinguish it from “pipeline.” “Pipe” refers to the tubular component of a pipeline, while “pipeline” continues to refer to all parts of the physical facilities that product travels through.
New Task
Besides definitions, the latest edition introduces one new task to the standard: 0637 Vacuum Box Inspection of Tank Welds (NDT). This task covers the process of bubble leak testing with a vacuum box to check the quality of annular joints, long and short seam bottom joints, and welded joints.
Since this is a new requirement, operators will need to ensure their workforce is trained and qualified on this task. EWN offers computer-based training specifically designed for B31Q task 0637 to help maintain compliance. Our computer-based training (CBT), Vacuum Box Inspection of Tank Welds (NDT) (0637), can help prepare your workforce and keep your OQ program in compliance. For help with assigning this training to your task list or learning more about it, reach out to us our customer support team by clicking here.
Clarified Span-of-Control (SOC) Requirements
Span-of-control (SOC) is the ratio of qualified individuals directing and observing unqualified individuals performing covered tasks on a pipeline. While the scope of SOC didn’t change in the latest edition of B31Q, the seventh edition does clarify that qualified individuals must be physically present when observing the work of unqualified individuals. This important requirement means qualified individuals can physically act to prevent or mitigate an AOC, should one arise while an unqualified individual is completing a covered task.
Standardized Requalification Interval
In an effort to encourage a standard requalification interval across the industry, the newest edition of B31Q caps requalification intervals at 5 years. While requalification intervals can be higher than this, operators will have to have data and establish a solid rationale for using longer intervals.
Need help?
EWN is the most trusted provider of Operator Qualification (OQ) training and helps Operators meet their OQ and OSHA compliance needs. We have an extensive library of pre-written OQ courses. We also offer many other services, including developing company-specific content (training) to fit an Operator’s specific OQ program needs.
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