SRCS Formation
The Subscribed Regulatory Compliance Service (SRCS) was formed in 2006. It was created to meet the growing need for a comprehensive, effective, and affordable service to assist public gas systems in achieving and maintaining compliance with the Pipeline Safety Code.
Prior to 2006, meeting even the minimum pipeline safety requirements was becoming more and more difficult. Contributing factors to the challenges include the aging pipeline infrastructure, increasing incidents of third-party damages, and growing pressure on the Office of Pipeline Safety to fine operators failing to meet minimum requirements.
When the need arose (as frequently requested by Members of the Gas Authority), the Executive Committee of the GMA Gas Section approached the Gas Authority with an important request: that they would become the statewide administrator of its Operator Qualification Program.
SRCS Progress: Years of Innovation and Expansion
Since launching more than 18 years ago, SRCS has remained at the cutting edge of public gas system compliance transformation. Initially created to address an immediate need, the service has matured into a benchmark-setting standard for the industry.
Extending Reach and Service
Originally established to cater to public gas systems across Georgia, SRCS swiftly gained popularity among both Gas Authority Members and those not affiliated. The ambition didn’t confine itself to Georgia’s borders; SRCS eventually broadened its reach into Alabama and has since extended its services into Florida. Today, SRCS operates as an independent service, accessible through subscription.
Simplifying Processes for Contractors
In addition to serving cities, SRCS offers a valuable component service to natural gas contractors. Through this service, contractors’ “qualified” employees are covered under the same Operator Qualification (OQ) Program used by subscribing cities. This streamlined approach eliminates redundancy, allowing contractors to deploy their qualified employees in subscriber cities without the need for additional qualifications. Its efficiency in action aligns with SRCS’s core mission of providing practical solutions to real-world challenges.
A Legacy of Progress
The story of SRCS is one of relentless progress, innovation, and dedication to the industry. By continually adapting and expanding, SRCS has not only met the evolving needs of public gas systems but has also set new standards for excellence.
As SRCS looks to the future, it carries with it the lessons, successes, and unwavering commitment to service that have defined its journey. The path ahead is filled with opportunities to further revolutionize compliance and support public gas systems in new and exciting ways.
Subscriber Services
Records Management
Standard, centralized records demonstrating each subscriber’s compliance with applicable sections of the Pipeline Safety Code. Records are accessible via the Internet portal, but can also be housed locally for inspection and reference.
Operator Qualification
System for administration of OQ including the facilitation of training, testing, and program updating.
Report Preparation
Assistance with preparation and submittal of federal and state pipeline safety reports.
Regulatory Representation
Subscribers are supported in interaction with state regulators. The service includes inspection preparation and response, seeking uniform treatment for all subscribers with regard to inspection and enforcement. SRCS works closely with state regulators to ensure the service delivers what is required by federal and state regulations. In addition, SRCS is actively involved at the national level through participation in the Operations Committees of the American Public Gas Association and the Southern Gas Association.
Systems Manuals and Plans
Catalog of “Master Manuals” with assistance in customization and updating to ensure new code requirements and inspection findings are integrated into manuals and plans.
SRCS Responsibility & Value
Emphasis on Partnership and Collaboration
At SRCS, our service offerings evolve to meet the needs of our Subscribers while our core philosophy remains rooted in collaboration rather than competition. Our team works in tandem with each subscriber to augment their existing resources, engaging closely with their contractors and consultants. This approach ensures that all parties maintain optimal standing with the Public Service Commission and liability insurance carriers. Accountability remains well-defined: each system is responsible for its own actions, without assuming liability for others.
Dynamic Subscriber Relationships
Our subscriber terms are built on ongoing contractual relationships. Budgets and subscription fees are set annually, incorporating input from our valued subscribers. Each year offers a comment period for subscribers to share their feedback, allowing the Gas Authority Board to consider opinions before finalizing approvals.
Maximizing Value for Subscribers
SRCS’s aim is to provide tangible value to make each subscriber’s involvement worthwhile. The investment in our service is economically sound, averaging just a few cents per dekatherm for most cities.
Compliance & Cost-Effectiveness
Compliance with Pipeline Safety Regulations is more than necessary; it’s a commitment to excellence. While compliance has associated costs, failing to comply carries even more significant consequences. SRCS’s joint-action model has been a trailblazer, enabling cities to achieve and maintain compliance cost-effectively and add substantial value.
SRCS stands as a beacon of responsibility and value, offering a pathway for cities to navigate the complexities of regulations with assurance and efficiency. Our approach is rooted in collaboration, integrity, and a shared vision of success.
SRCS Staff
BILL DEFOOR, DIRECTOR
- Length of time w/ company: Hire Date – March 1, 2006
- Based in: Rabun Gap, GA
- Educational background:
- Bachelor of Science in Building Construction – Georgia Institute of Technology
- Stephens County High School, Toccoa, GA
- Employment History:
- Regional Office Manager for a regional consulting engineering firm
- Natural Gas Director for a Georgia municipal system
- Project Manager for general contractors and utility contractor
- Professional achievements worth noting:
- Completed RSPA’s (now PHMSA) Regulator Compliance for Natural Gas Operations Industry Course, Oklahoma City, OK
- Former Member and twice Chairman – GMA Gas Section Executive Committee
- Presenter – President’s Council on Y2K Readiness/FERC Industry Working Group Meeting
- Presenter – Atlanta Year 2000 Utilities Forum
- Former Arbitrator – American Arbitration Association
- Participant in APGA SIF Working Groups for development of OQ Evaluation Materials, O&M Procedures, Compliance Training, and DIMP Development Tool, O&M Manual Development Tool
- SIF Board of Directors
- Certifications or designations worth noting:
- Gas Authority 1997 Marketer of the Year
- APGA Harry M. Cooke Personal Service Award
- Favorite thing about working with SRCS:
- I get up every morning knowing that I can help someone that day.
TIM FRANKLIN, MANAGER
- Length of time w/ company: Hire Date – March 15, 2006
- Based in: Demorest, GA
- Educational background:
- Gainesville College, Gainesville, GA
- Jackson County High School, Jefferson, GA
- Employment History:
- Senior Pipeline Safety Inspector for Georgia Public Service Commission
- Operations Supervisor, Crew Foreman, Training Instructor, and other positions for large investor-owned natural gas distribution company
- United States Marine Corps
- United States Army Reserve
- Professional achievements worth noting:
- Participant in APGA SIF Working Groups for development of O&M Procedures and O&M Manual Development Tool
- Member of Georgia Pipeline Emergency Response Initiative (GPERI) organizing committee
- Certifications or designations worth noting:
- PHMSA Transportation Safety Institute (now Training & Qualifying)
- General Pipeline Safety Awareness
- Pipeline Failure Investigation Techniques
- Joining of Pipeline Materials
- Pipeline Safety Regulation Application & Compliance Procedures
- Safety Evaluation of Gas Pipeline Systems
- Operator Qualification
- Fundamentals of Liquefied Natural Gas
- Liquefied Natural Gas Safety Technology Inspection
- Fundamentals of Gas Pressure Regulators
- Gas Pressure Regulation & Over Pressure Protection
- HAZWOPPER Refresher for Pipeline Safety Representatives
- External Corrosion Direct Assessment
- Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment
- High Consequence Areas
- Fundamentals of Basic DC Electricity
- Fundamentals of Pipeline Corrosion Cathodic Protection
- Corrosion Control of Pipeline Systems
- Investigating and Managing Internal Corrosion of Pipelines
- Gas Integrity Management Protocol Seminar
- Favorite thing about working with SRCS:
- Having the opportunity to help our Subscribers navigate through the maze of regulatory requirements that are necessary for the safe delivery of natural gas to their customers.
- PHMSA Transportation Safety Institute (now Training & Qualifying)
MAURICE CHANEY, ASSISTANT MANAGER
- Length of time w/ company: Hire Date – January 7, 2008
- Based in: Trion, GA
- Educational background:
- Trion High School, Trion, GA
- Employment history:
- Assistant Gas Superintendent for two Georgia municipalities
- Gas System Employee for one Georgia municipality
- Operations Specialist – United States Navy
- Professional achievements worth noting:
- Vital member of the SIF Working Group, responsible for the development and regular updates of an Anti-Drug and Alcohol Misuse Prevention Plan tool.
- Additional Skills & Interests:
- Former Pastor and Bible Teacher, honing skills in communication and leadership
- Self-taught in artificial intelligence, with a focus on regulatory compliance applications
- Favorite thing about working with SRCS:
- What truly motivates me is the ability to support operators in small communities, assisting them in navigating through intricate regulations to achieve safer and more efficient systems.
BRUCE BAGNASCO, PE, SENIOR ANALYST – ENGINEER
- Hire Date – March 1, 2020
- Based in Hartwell, Georgia
- Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering – University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Page High School, Greensboro, North Carolina
- Employment History:
- Director of Natural Gas Engineering for a national consulting engineering firm, 2013-2020
- Vice President for a regional consulting engineering firm, 1997-2013
- Project Engineer for a regional consulting engineering firm, 1987-1997
- Certifications:
- Professional Engineer, Georgia, North Carolina and New York
- Favorite thing about working with SRCS:
- Being a member of a team of professionals with a common goal of providing guidance and assistance to natural gas system operators.
LORI LAMBERTH, PE, SENIOR ANALYST – ENGINEER
- Length of time w/ company: Hire Date – May 1, 2022
- Based in: Hartwell, GA
- Educational background:
- BS in Civil Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC
- Camden High School, Camden, SC
- Employment History:
- President of Lamberth Engineering Services, Inc. 2004-2022, contracting engineering services to the gas and oil industry
- Various Engineering and Regulatory Compliance positions for a large investor-owned natural gas Local Distribution Company 1994-2004
- Project Engineer for an environmental consulting company
- Process Engineer for a pulp and paper company
- Certifications:
- Professional Engineer, Georgia
- Favorite thing about working with SRCS:
- I love the people that this position allows me to work with.
CHRIS CAWLEY, SENIOR COMPLIANCE ANALYST
- Length of time w/ company: Hire Date – June 1, 2009
- Based in: Augusta, GA
- Educational background:
- Samford University, Birmingham, AL.
- George P Butler High School, Augusta, GA.
- Employment history
- Safety and Operations Training Manager for large investor-owned natural gas distribution company
- Professional achievements worth noting:
- Presenter, AGA Training Round Table, Montreal, Canada
- Presenter, Pipeline Safety Seminar sponsored by Georgia Municipal Association.
- Adult Learning Presentation Southern Gas Association Training Roundtable
- Presenter, VNG Pipeline Safety Seminar, Virginia Beach, VA
- Presenter, Southeastern Gas Association Safety Conference
- Member, Untapped Labor Sources Subcommittee of the Georgia Energy and Industrial Consortium
- Chairman, Southern Gas Association Distribution and Transmission Committee
- Chairman, Southern Gas Association Technical Training Committee
- Member, Southern Gas Association Training Committee
- Member, Southern Gas Association Operator Qualification Committee
- Member, Atlanta Tech HVAC Advisory Board
- Certifications or designations worth noting:
- Industrial Hygienist
- OSHA Training Institute, Registered Outreach Trainer – Construction Industry, General Industry, and Disaster Site Worker
- Certified Safety Executive, World Safety Organization
- Certified Welding Inspector Plant and Pipeline, National Welding Inspection School
- Certified Smith System Driver Trainer
- OSHA 30 Construction Industry / OSHA 30 General Industry, Safety and Health
- OSHA Disaster Site Worker Training
- Certified Driving Instructor, National Safety Council
- Welder Certificate
- Favorite thing about working with SRCS:
- Having the freedom to work independently with my Subscribers while knowing I have the full support and assistance of my fellow team members.
SAM YARLEY, SENIOR COMPLIANCE ANALYST
- Length of time w/ company: Hire Date – March 8, 2010
- Educational background:
- Southwest Georgia Technical College – Welding
- Bainbridge College
- Cairo High School, Cairo, GA
- Employment history
- Pipeline Safety Inspector for Georgia Public Service Commission
- Gas Superintendent for a Georgia municipal system
- Corrosion Technician for regional natural gas consultant/contractor
- Professional achievements worth noting:
- Safety Trainer and Evaluator for municipal natural gas systems and contractors
- Volunteer Fire Fighter
- PHMSA Transportation Safety Institute (now Training & Qualifying)
- Pipeline Evaluations
- Failure Investigations
- Joining Procedures and Materials
- Corrosion Control
- Liquefied Natural Gas Requirements
- Operator Qualification
- Odorization
- Over-Pressure Protection
- Enforcement of Pipeline Safety Regulations
- Certifications or designations worth noting:
- Favorite thing about working with SRCS:
- Being part of a great team and providing a reliable service to our members
WADE SHARPE, SENIOR COMPLIANCE ANALYST
- Length of time w/ company: Hire Date – January 1, 2019
- Based in: Dublin, Georgia
- Educational background:
- Middle Georgia College
- Georgia Southern University
- East Laurens High School
- Employment history
- Gas Superintendent, Gas Compliance Officer, and Engineering Technician for a Georgia municipal system
- Estimator/Supervisor for water and sewer pipeline contractor
- Self-employed welding and fabricating company owner
- Welder and pipe fitter for various companies
- Professional achievements worth noting:
- UGA Governmental Management Training
- OFTC Customer Service Training
- GMA Personnel Management Training
- GMA Gas Section Operator Qualification Training
- GMA Gas Section Board member 2016-2019
GENE TAYLOR, TECHNICAL ANALYST
- Length of time w/ company: Hire Date – May 16, 2017
- Educational Background:
- West Georgia Technical College
- Flint River Academy
- Employment History:
- 19 Years Gas Regulations & Supply Specialist and other positions for Georgia municipal Operator
- Educational Courses Since Joining SRCS:
- Introduction to Microsoft Excel 2016 in 2017 from West Georgia Technical College
- Intermediate Microsoft Excel 2016 in 2017 from West Georgia Technical College
- Fundamentals of Technical Writing Course in 2018 from West Georgia Technical College
- Certifications or designations worth noting:
- GSWCC Soil and Erosion Control Certification
- Customer Service Courses through Electric Cities of Georgia
- Favorite thing about working with SRCS:
- Focusing on building a positive relationship with our Subscribers while providing assistance in a way that makes them feel confident in their ability to maintain compliance despite the constant changes in the Federal and State regulations.
CHRIS WELBORN, SENIOR COMPLIANCE ANALYST
- Length of time w/ company: Hire Date – January 1, 2015
- Educational background:
- West Georgia Technical College
- Troup County High School
- Employment history:
- Pipeline Safety Inspector for Georgia Public Service Commission
- Gas Superintendent and other positions for two Georgia municipal systems
- Professional achievements worth noting:
- PHMSA Transportation Safety Institute (now Training & Qualifying)
- Safety Evaluation of Distribution Integrity Management Programs
- Safety Evaluation of Gas Pipeline Systems
- Gas Pressure Regulation and Overpressure Protection
- Plastic and Composite Materials
- HAZWOPER Refresher for Pipeline Safety Representatives
- Welding and Welding Inspection of Pipeline Materials
- Pipeline Failure Investigation Techniques
- Pipeline Safety Regulation Application and Compliance Procedures
- General Pipeline Safety Awareness
- Corrosion Control of Pipeline Systems
- Evaluation of Operator Qualification
- Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Safety Technology and Inspection
- PHMSA web-based training courses
- Fundamentals of Liquefied Natural Gas
- Introduction to Pipeline Welding
- Regulatory Overview
- Fundamentals of Plastic Pipe
- Public Awareness Programs for Pipeline Operators
- Operator Qualification
- Investigating and Managing Internal Corrosion of Pipelines
- Fundamentals of Basic DC Electricity
- Drug and Alcohol Testing for the Pipeline Industry
- Fundamentals of Pipeline Corrosion and Cathodic Protection
- HAZWOPER Training
- Fundamentals of Gas Pressure Regulators
- Introduction to Part 192
- Natural Gas Odorization
- Introduction to Gas Laws
- Introduction of Distribution Integrity Management Program
- Natural Gas Firefighting
- National Incident Management System courses
- PHMSA Transportation Safety Institute (now Training & Qualifying)
- Certifications or designations worth noting:
- GSWCC Soil and Erosion Control Certification
- Favorite thing about working with SRCS:
- When I hear an Operator say, “I’m glad you showed that to me.” It’s satisfying knowing that the resources that are available to me through the SRCS can have a positive impact on the Operator and the consumer.
