(a) In conducting tests under this subpart, each operator shall insure that every reasonable precaution is taken to protect its employees and the general public during the testing. Whenever the hoop stress of the segment of the pipeline being tested will exceed 50 percent of SMYS, the operator shall take all practicable steps to keep persons not working on the testing operation outside of the testing area until the pressure is reduced to or below the proposed maximum allowable operating pressure.

(b) The operator shall insure that the test medium is disposed of in a manner that will minimize damage to the environment.