September 8 , 2005 

Artesia News

Pipeline Safety Depends on All of Us

Living Near Pipelines - A Message from Exxon Pipeline Company

America's Pipeline Network


Did you know that Americans consume more than 860 million galloons of petroleum products each day in the form of gasoline, diesel fuel, heating oil, and jet fuel?

Much of these products are transported through underground pipeline systems. Each day, millions of gallons are safely and quietly delivered. According to the U.S. Dept. of Transportation, pipelines are the safest means of petroleum transportation.

To ensure that our pipeline facilities are well maintained and operated safely, we have developed an extensive Operations Integrity Management System that guides us in all we do.

Pipelines . . . Your Quiet Neighbor

Written agreements, or easements, between landowners and pipeline companies allow pipelines rights-of-way across privately owned property.

If you are uncertain whether a pipe line runs through your property:
• Check for pipeline markers posted on your property or in your neighborhood.
• Check your property records at your county clerk’s office.
• Check the website of the National Pipeline Mapping System (www.npms.rspa.dot.gov).
• You can also call us at (800) 537-5200 for information on our pipelines in your community.

Introducing Your Neighborhood Pipeline

For your safety, markers are used to show the approximate location of pipelines and the companies that own them. You should be aware of any pipeline markers in your neighborhood. Write down the name and phone number of the pipeline company that is listed on the marker in case of an emergency.

Call Before You Dig

A pipeline emergency is very unlikely to occur. However, the most likely type of an emergency is a leak caused by excavation and construction equipment owned by parties other than the pipeline company.

Before you dig or excavate, you should contact your local “One-Call” system to determine exactly where pipelines are located. You can contact your local One-Call office by calling (888) 258-0808, or by contacting the pipeline company.

Do not assume the location or depth of the pipeline. The pipeline marker may not show the exact location of the line. Advise us immediately if you make any contact, however minor, with the pipeline so we can investigate for any possible damage.

Please call us if you would like a copy of our damage prevention program which provides detailed information for safely excavating near lines we operate.

Recognizing a Leak

Pipelines carry both gaseous and liquid materials. Many liquids form gaseous vapor clouds when released into air. Some pipelines contain colorless and odorless products. Some gases are lighter than air and will rise. Other heavier-than-air gases and liquids will stay near the ground and collect in low spots. Any pipeline leak can be potentially dangerous.

You can recognize a leak:
By Sight: A pool of liquid on the ground near a pipeline, a dense white cloud or fog over a pipeline, or discolored vegetation surrounding the pipeline may be signs of a leak.

By Sound: An unusual noise coming from the pipeline, like a hissing or roaring sound, may be a sign of a leak.

By Smell: An unusual smell will oftentimes accompany a pipeline leak.

What toDo If a Leak Occurs

1. IMMEDIATELY AND SAFELY LEAVE THE LEAK AREA.
2. Do not touch, breathe, or make contact with leaking liquids.
3. Do not light a match, start an engine, use a telephone or light switch, or do anything that may create a spark.
4. Do not drive into a leak or vapor cloud area.
5. 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, a description of the leak and its location.
6. Warn others.

Once an emergency is identified, we will immediately dispatch personnel to the site to help handle the situation and coordinate with emergency response agencies. We will also take the necessary operating actions to minimize the impact of the event. We regularly work with emergency response officials in your area regarding emergency response execution and drills.

Thank you for helping us keep your neighborhood safe.

 

 

  
     


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