Pipelines are the safest and most reliable way to transport energy products, including: natural gas, crude oil, liquid petroleum products, and chemical products. Pipelines are primarily underground, which keeps them away from public contact and accidental damage. It is also a fact that pipelines can move large volumes of product at a significantly lower operating cost when compared to other modes of transportation. Despite safety and efficiency statistics, increases in energy consumption and population growth near pipelines present the potential for a pipeline incident.

To meet the pipeline industry’s goal of incident-free operation, pipeline operators invest substantial human and financial resources to protect the people, property and environments near pipelines. Damage prevention measures include routine inspection and maintenance, corrosion protection, continuous monitoring and control technologies, public awareness programs, and integrity management and emergency response plans. While pipelines are generally the safest method of transporting hazardous chemicals, they are not failsafe. Pipeline product releases, whether in the form of a slow leak or violent rupture, are a risk in any community.

In the unlikely event of an incident near or involving a pipeline, it is critical you know how to respond and are prepared to work together with the pipeline operator’s representatives.