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Safety Practices
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Environment and Safety Policy
Pipeline Standards NGC has a long history of safe natural gas transmission. The Company has maintained pipeline standards to ensure transmission reliability. Pipelines are therefore installed, operated, maintained and repaired to international specification. New pipelines are carefully inspected to ensure that they meet quality standards according to the best industry practice. Moreover, to ensure minimum external corrosion, the outside surface of the pipe is treated with a protective coating. Once the pipe is 'grounded' electric current is applied. This is known as cathodic protection. The pipes are then buried five feet below the surface of the ground and an underground warning tape is placed two feet above the pipe. Pipeline Surveys and Inspections Extensive surveys and inspections of the "Rights of Way" are regularly undertaken by NGC to detect leaks, encroachments and soil erosion. NGC also does aerial surveys of its routes. Oil Spill Contingency Plan NGC has an Oil Spill Contingency Plan in place in the event that there is a hydrocarbon release. The Plan focuses on the environment and addresses methods for clean up. Should there ever be a spill in the south-east coast marine area where most of the crude oil and natural gas production activities take place, NGC will play its role in the team co-ordinated by bpTT which has responsibility for the area. Adherence to Legislative and Regulatory Requirements NGC conducts Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for all projects that have the potential to do damage to the environment. The EIA is an analytical procedure that encompasses all aspects of the project to determine preventive and corrective actions needed to ensure minimal harm to the environment. Waste Management NGC has introduced a waste management procedure within its operations in accordance with the "Prevent, Reduce, Re-use, Recover and Re-cycle" principle. However, if these actions are not applicable, pre-treatment and disposal actions are taken. NGC's waste management practices also extend to contractors who are required to comply with company policy to remove waste after a given project. An example of this can be found during the 'pigging operations' of pipelines, in which all liquids removed from the pipelines are collected and recycled at bpTT or PETROTRIN. Another example is that all waste oils on board the offshore platforms are collected and used for deep well injection. Well-marked 'Rights of Way' NGC works with government agencies and ministries to design pipeline routes that impact minimally on the public and environment. Pipelines are located in what is known in the industry as 'Rights of Way' or land corridors. The presence of a 'Right of Way' is clearly marked with yellow marker posts which indicate the proximity of pipelines. These posts are intended to reduce the possibility of pipeline damage by third parties involved in agriculture, road construction or other activities. Pipeline Risks Pipelines are the safest form of transporting of products. Your individual risk of loss of life is 300-3,000 times greater traveling in a car than living near a pipeline. Emergency Preparedness NGC has a strong track record of testing and updating its emergency response plans. We work routinely with the local jurisdictions. However, everyone can work together to prevent third party damage to our pipelines. What to Do In the Event of a Release Natural gas and natural gas liquids are potentially flammable and hazardous under certain conditions. If you experience a pipeline emergency situation, go upwind to a safe location and call 800-4GAS (800-4427) toll free immediately. Keep others away. |
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