Pipelines

How can you tell where a pipeline is located?
Since pipelines are buried underground, line markers, like the ones shown here, are used to indicate the approximate location of a pipeline at points along its right-of-way. Though helpful, pipeline markers are limited in the information they provide. Markers are placed near pipelines, but not necessarily on top of them. Marker signs do not provide information on the exact location, depth, diameter or number of pipelines they mark.

If you live or work near a pipeline, how can you tell where a pipeline is located? Look for these signs:

• Located near roads, railroads, and along the pipeline right-of-ways
• Marker for pipeline patrol plane
• Pipeline casing vent
• Painted metal, plastic or fiberglass posts

Excavation Safety
Underground pipelines are the safest way to move natural gas and you can help keep it that way. Damage from excavation-related activities is a leading cause of pipeline accidents — the primary cause being earth-moving and construction equipment and tools. A gouge, scrape, dent, crease or other damage to the pipeline or its external coating may lead to a leak or break., 

How To Recognize a Pipeline Leak

• A pool of liquid on the ground near a pipeline, a dense white cloud or fog over a pipeline, discolored vegetation surrounding the pipeline, an unusual dry spot in an otherwise moist field, bubbling in marshland, rivers or creeks, or an oily sheen appearing on water surfaces may be signs of a leak.
• An unusual noise coming from the pipeline, such as a hissing or roaring sound, may be a sign of a leak.
• An unusual smell or gaseous odor will sometimes accompany a pipeline leak.
• Frozen ground at the pipeline in warm weather.
• Dirt blowing up from the ground.

What To Do If You Suspect A Leak

• Immediately leave the area.
• If possible turn off any equipment being used in or near the suspected leak. Abandon any equipment being used and move upwind from the suspected leak.
• Avoid introducing any sources of ignition to the area such as cell phones, pagers, and 2-way radios.
• From a safe location, call 911 or your local emergency response number and the pipeline company. Call collect, if needed, and give your name, phone number, description of the leak and its location.
• Warn others to stay away when possible.

DO NOT:

• Touch, breathe, or make contact with the leaking liquids or gas. Stay upwind if possible.
• Light a match, start an engine, use a telephone, turn on or off any type of electrical switch such as a light, garage door opener, etc., or do anything that may create static or a spark.
• Attempt to extinguish any pipeline fire that may start.
• Drive into a leak or vapor cloud area. Automobile engines may ignite the vapors.
• Attempt to operate valves.
• Try to repair the line yourself.