Natural Gas Safety

Safety is the natural gas industry's top priority.

The pipeline infrastructure, which includes 1.4 million miles of natural gas pipeline, is the nation's safest energy delivery system, according to U.S. government statistics. Together, gas utility and pipeline companies spend billions annually to ensure that natural gas is delivered in a safe and reliable manner.

The rate of incidents in the region and nationally over the last decade and more has been declining, at the same time that the number of customers and pipeline mileage on the system has increased.

Natural gas utilities in the region have procedures in place, overseen by federal and state agencies, to reduce the occurrence of system incidents.

The Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA) notes: "Pipelines are the safest way to move large amounts of energy. While all forms of transportation have risks, pipeline safety is continually improving, thanks to government regulation and industry initiatives. The three main causes of pipeline leaks are corrosion, material/weld flaws and excavation damage. Data collected by the Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration show that the frequency of leaks from all causes are decreasing."

To address system safety, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued new recommendations for pipeline systems, and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced several steps regarding pipeline safety.

The industry takes all incidents seriously and is constantly working to ensure the integrity of its system, including regular maintenance and replacement of line segments on an approved schedule.

In February 2022, the National Association of Pipeline Safety Representatives (NAPSR) released the 3rd edition of its comprehensive report entitled: "Compendium of State Pipeline Safety Requirements & Initiatives Providing Increased Public Safety Levels." The report's preface notes: "Over 1,477 specific pipeline safety initiatives in 23 categories ranging from enhanced reporting to record keeping to cathodic protection to design and installation requirements have been adopted by states to assist in pipeline safety oversight. Formalized pipeline replacement programs have been employed by many states to address the aging pipeline infrastructure. To date 45 states have implemented at least one initiative above and beyond the minimum requirements of the Code of Federal Regulations that apply to one or more pipeline operators within their states. It is hoped that this report will serve as a detailed resource for examining some of the pipeline safety best practices established by the states." The report is online at: http://www.napsr.org/compendium.html


As new technologies are developed in pipeline design, construction, inspections, and operations, the industry will continue to invest in pipeline integrity programs that will allow for the safe and secure delivery of natural gas.

The industry works with emergency responders, state and local agencies to prevent and prepare for emergencies through training and periodic drills. These exercises test procedures, logistics, communications and more. Emergency plans and procedures are periodically updated and made available to state authorities.

The natural gas industry is committed to greater safety awareness among its customers, its workers, and the general public. NGA has on its home page a link called "Gas Safety Public Awareness" which contains information on a Regional Public Awareness and Education Program adopted by members of the Northeast Gas Association (NGA). It is intended to increase awareness about pipeline operations, emergency response, and damage prevention. The site includes links to participating member utility companies while offering coordinated information on natural gas safety issues.

The link can be found here: NGA Gas Safety Public Awareness

NGA Advisories:

"Being Nosey Can Keep You Safe"

Safety Awareness Info for Public, in Multiple Languages

Natural Gas Detectors

A Collaborative Approach to PSMS in the Northeast

First Responder Utility Safety Online Training

NGA Safety Bulletin on Odor Fade

NGA Advisory on Dangers of Snow And Ice Build-Up Around Natural Gas Equipment

Also:

NFPA Fact Sheet on Carbon Monoxide click here

Link to government and industry sites