Important Notice Regarding the Future of Special Permits SP-9830, SP-10320, and SP-11692
Dear GAWDA Safety Committee Members,
We are writing to inform you of important updates concerning Special Permits SP-9830, SP-10320, and SP-11692. These permits, which cover certain cylinder designs previously manufactured by Worthington Enterprises, have all been successfully renewed and are currently set to expire in 2029.
Following recent discussions with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and considering the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) published on July 1, 2025, we would like to advise all affected customers of Worthington’s future plans and your available options.
Important Information:
• Worthington Enterprises does not intend to renew these Special Permits beyond the current 2029 expiration.
• The cylinder designs covered under these SPs have not been produced in over 12 years.
• The original manufacturing facilities may no longer exist or are no longer owned by Worthington.
Customer Options After 2029:
1. Decommission and Remove from Service – Upon expiration, you may choose to retire the affected cylinders from service.
2. Apply for Party Status and Convert to a Shipper SP – As the expiration date approaches, customers may apply for party status. PHMSA has indicated they will be prepared to facilitate the conversion from a manufacturer permit to a shipper special permit.
3. Await Final Ruling on NPRM HM-268F – PHMSA’s NPRM HM-268F: Reducing Burdens by Allowing Continued Use of DOT Special Permit Packaging proposes allowing the continued use of special permit packaging for its full lifespan, even if the permit is no longer renewed or the original holder ceases to exist. If adopted as written, this may be the most effective path forward.
We will continue to monitor PHMSA’s rulemaking process and will keep you informed of any updates that may impact your operations. In the meantime, please review your internal inventory and operational plans related to these cylinders to prepare for the upcoming changes.
Should you have any questions or require assistance with the party status application process or understanding the implications of the NPRM, our regulatory team is available to support you.
Thank you for your continued partnership.
Sincerely,
Scott Evans Sr.
Sales Manager, Worthington Enterprises
[email protected]
