Arizona State Rule (http://apps.azsos.gov/public_services/Title_14/14-05.pdf) defines a Master Meter as; physical facilities for distributing gas within a definable area where the operator purchases metered gas from a public service corporation to provide gas service to two or more buildings other than at a single family residence.

• Master metered facilities are classified into two priorities for inspections.
• All priority 1 facilities are inspected on an annual basis. These facilities are usually defined as special needs facilities and or facilities where the public congregates such as schools, churches, hospitals, prisons, etc.
• 50% of priority 2 facilities are inspected every year with the remaining percentage inspected during the following calendar year and consist of mobile home parks, apartments, industrial facilities, hotels/motels, etc.

Arizona State Rule (http://apps.azsos.gov/public_services/Title_14/14-05.pdf) R14-5-207 (S):  To ensure compliance with provisions of this rule, the Commission or an authorized representative thereof, may enter the premises of an operator of a master meter system to inspect and investigate the property, books, papers, business methods, and affairs that pertain to the operation of the master meter system.

• Master meter inspections consist of a complete review of the operator’s plans and records to confirm that all required maintenance and gas pipeline activities are being completed according to federal and state regulations. A physical inspection of the entire gas system is conducted with the operator during these inspections.
• Following the inspection, the Master Meter operator is provided a copy of the inspection report and any violations are fully explained to the operator.
• Each Master Meter operator has 30 days to either make the necessary corrections or provide a schedule detailing when these corrections will be completed.
• Follow-up inspections are conducted as needed to assure the operator has corrected all violations noted during their inspection.
• Inspections are also conducted on all new construction and repairs performed by operators to assure that workmanship and materials meet federal and state regulations.
• The failure of any master meter operator to comply in a timely manner could result in enforcement action and ultimately in termination of gas service to the facility.
• To aid master meter operators in achieving compliance, the office of pipeline safety offers:
  • Plan and record keeping resources.