Every day, over two million miles of pipelines safely transport natural gas, gasoline, and other essential products across the United States. Understanding the location of these pipelines, potential hazards, and how to identify and respond to a potential leak is crucial for the safety of families, employees, and communities.

Kinder Morgan’s pipelines transport natural gas, gasoline, crude oil, CO2, and other products, implementing rigorous safety measures to ensure public safety and secure pipeline operations.

Call 811 Before You Dig

 

If planning any project involving digging or ground disturbance, such as building a fence, planting a tree, or installing a swimming pool, it is essential to call 811 or your local One-Call Center before starting.

811 is the national call-before-you-dig phone number. This free service locates and marks underground utilities, protecting you, your family, and your property. It is often legally required to call 811 or your local One-Call center at least two to three business days before commencing any digging or ground disturbance projects to have pipelines and underground utilities marked.

Always remember to call 811 at least two working days before digging, wait for the lines to be marked, dig with care, and report any dents, scratches, or damage to a pipeline or underground utility to the utility owner immediately.

Locating Pipelines and Pipeline Facilities

 

In addition to calling 811 or your local One-Call Center before digging, there are other resources to identify the approximate location of pipelines.

Pipeline markers, located along pipeline routes, at road and railroad crossings, and at all above-ground pipeline facilities, indicate the general area of a pipeline. These markers specify the type of product transported, the operator’s name, and an emergency contact number. However, they do not provide the exact location or depth of the pipeline and should never be used as a substitute for calling 811 before excavation.

Damaging, removing, or destroying a pipeline marker is a federal crime.

The National Pipeline Mapping System, maintained by the federal government, also provides maps showing the approximate location of transmission pipelines. Government and safety officials can access additional information and download electronic files for emergency preparedness GIS mapping systems.

Recognising and Responding to a Pipeline or Pipeline Facility Leak

 

Although rare, pipeline leaks can be dangerous and require immediate action. Recognising the signs of a potential pipeline leak and knowing how to respond is crucial for protecting people, property, and the environment.

Signs of a potential pipeline leak include:

  • Dead vegetation, stains, or liquid on the ground near the pipeline, dirt being blown into the air, fire at or below ground level, dense white cloud or fog, or frozen ground near the pipeline
  • Colorful sheens on water surfaces, bubbles coming from bodies of water
  • Hissing or roaring sounds
  • Strong petroleum scent, mild fragrant odor (ethanol), or pungent odor such as sulfur (rotten eggs or garlic-like); natural gas may also be odorless

 

If you suspect a leak or a leak occurs:

  • Leave the area immediately in an upwind direction and warn others to stay away
  • If near a school, evacuate students and staff as outlined in the school’s emergency response plan
  • Avoid using ignition sources such as matches, engines, telephones, or electrical appliances
  • Once at a safe distance, call 911 and Kinder Morgan
  • Do not drive into the suspected leak area, and avoid operating pipeline valves or making contact with escaping liquids or vapors

 

Protecting Pipelines, Pipeline Facilities & Right-of-Way

 

Kinder Morgan has 24-hour safety and security procedures in place but relies on government and safety officials and local residents to notify about potential damage, right-of-way issues, or suspicious activity.

The right-of-way is the land over and around a pipeline, typically 25 feet on either side, shared by Kinder Morgan and the landowner. To ensure pipeline safety, certain restrictions apply to right-of-way usage. Unauthorized usages, such as placing buildings or planting trees and shrubs, can interfere with pipeline operations.

Regular maintenance is conducted to trim trees and remove shrubs or structures obstructing the pipeline route during aerial or foot patrols.

You can help protect pipelines by always calling before you dig and reporting any suspected damage, including scrapes or dents. Prompt inspection and repairs of any damage are essential to prevent future leaks or serious accidents.

For more information visit www.kindermorgan.com

11th June 2024