Yes, pipelines are the safest way to transport energy products.

The US Department of Transportation Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) regulate pipelines in Texas.

Serious pipeline problems are rare.  But if a problem occurs, it is important that you know how to quickly respond.  Damaged pipelines may release flammable products into soil or the air or chemicals that can be harmful to people and the environment.

• Learn more about pipeline safety statistics in Texas.
• Review the signs of a pipeline leak and how to quickly respond.

Your Role in Pipeline Safety

Most serious pipeline incidents are preventable.  According to government and industry statistics, improper or unauthorized digging near a pipeline is the most common cause of serious pipeline problems. Calling 811 before digging on your property or near a pipeline right-of-way protects you, your family and your community.

If you have a pipeline easement on your property, protect the pipeline by knowing the details of your easement agreement and avoiding activities that could endanger underground lines, such as planting trees or shrubs or placing buildings or structures on the right-of-way.

If you have gas appliances in your home:

• Have the lines that connect to these appliances periodically inspected by a professional. Some distribution pipeline companies can inspect these lines and their connections for you. A licensed plumber can also help.
• Know about carbon monoxide poisoning and how to prevent it. Never use natural gas ranges for heating. Using a range as a source of heat can cause dangerous levels of carbon monoxide to build up in your home or building. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that is colorless, odorless, tasteless and non-irritating.  It can also be toxic.  This poisonous gas can cause serious illness and even death. Consider installing a carbon monoxide monitor.

How Pipeline Operators Keep Lines Safe

Pipeline companies carefully build and maintain their lines. These operators monitor pipelines around-the-clock.

They place pipeline makers to identify the general location of pipelines and provide an emergency contact number. Operators patrol their lines to identify potential problems by plane and on foot and regularly trim trees and remove shrubs or structures that are too close to the right-of-way and can impact safety.

Pipeline companies often take samples of the products they transport to identify early signs of a pipeline problem. And they employ a number of preventative maintenance procedures to test valves and visually map the inside of pipelines using sophisticated technology. In addition, pipeline operators train their employees how to quickly identify and respond to a pipeline problem. They also invest in communication programs to increase the general public’s awareness of pipelines in their community.