We are very proud of our safety record. Our safety programs and operational philosophy have protected the public and the environment for more than 50 years. At the same time, we are aware of public concern about pipeline safety. Specifically, people want to know if a pipeline incident will affect them.Every situation is unique, but we believe our safety procedures and pipeline integrity management program have served it and its pipeline neighbours well over the years.

Here are some things you should know about pipelines and about our approach to safety:

  • Statistics compiled by the U.S. Department of Transportation confirm that the age of a pipeline is not a leading cause of pipeline incidents. On the contrary, well-maintained pipeline can operate safely for decades.
  • Regulations for pipeline materials and operation are different in rural and urban areas. In general, pipelines in urban areas are thicker and inspected more frequently than those in the open countryside.
  • The vast majority of our pipelines are in rural areas well away from population centres.
  • Our pipelines are monitored 24 hours a day by trained operators who respond immediately to any indication of abnormal operation.
  • Our pipelines are cathodically protected, which means a low voltage electric current is induced in the vicinity of the pipeline to inhibit external corrosion.
  • Special internal monitoring tools are used to detect anomalies involving loss of wall thickness, including corrosion. When certain anomalies are detected, the pipeline segment in question is excavated and visually inspected. It is either repaired on the spot or replaced. Internal inspection tools, called “pigs,” are pushed along inside the pipeline using the pressure of the natural gas itself. Our crews operate under the ‘Eat Sleep Pig’ mind-set.
  • Pipeline right-of-way is routinely patrolled from the air. Ground patrols with hand-held leak detectors are also employed in some instances
  • The pipeline industry is strictly regulated for safety. Our assets are routinely audited by relevant state, provincial and federal agencies. For additional information about pipeline operations and safety, please visit the following web sites: