PHMSA sponsors Research & Development (R&D) projects focused on providing near-term solutions that will increase the safety and reliability of the nation's pipelines and hazardous materials transportation. The descriptions below links on this page provide more details about PHMSA's Hazardous Materials and Pipeline Safety R&D programs and how to become involved in R&D efforts for each safety area.   

Hazardous Materials Safety

PHMSA's Hazardous Materials Safety R&D program directs basic and applied research for the purpose of minimizing risks associated with the transportation of hazardous materials.  PHMSA's R&D investments in hazardous materials is helping to shape the future of the organization with an effective, efficient, and aggressive focus on initiatives that produce the most successful safety solutions. 

Pipeline Safety

PHMSA's Pipeline Safety R&D program conducts and supports research to support regulatory and enforcement activities and to provide the technical and analytical foundation necessary for planning, evaluating, and implementing the pipeline safety program. This program is sponsoring research and development projects focused on providing near-term solutions that will increase the safety, cleanliness, and reliability of the nation's pipeline system.