When we learn about dirt and what's underground, we're often taught about layers like peat, humus, and subsoil. But in many cases, there’s a pipeline buried under your feet. This year, thanks to Leap Day, if you're planning a garden or just trying to figure out what you're standing on, you have an extra day to find out for sure by visiting your state’s pipeline profile.
There you can view maps of your state's pipeline network, read incident reports, and learn who regulates pipelines in your state. You'll also learn where to go or who to contact if you need more information.
Our Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) makes public education about pipelines a priority because at DOT we know that the more you know, the safer you are. That's why PHMSA has included a drop-down list of state pipeline profiles on its Community Pipeline Toolbox, a pipeline safety website.
That’s also why President Obama's proposed budget includes funding to hire more inspectors, strengthen coordination with states, and increase transparency about pipeline matters.
Serious pipeline incidents are preventable, and we all play an important role in making sure they don’t happen in your community. So, in addition to the state pipeline profiles, the Community Pipeline Toolbox has safety information that everyone can put to use. Whether you're an excavator planning a big dig (learn about your state's Damage Prevention Program), a first responder broadening your preparation (find pipeline emergency training), or a homeowner with spring gardening on your mind (call 8-1-1 before digging so you "know what's below"), the toolbox features useful guidelines and information.
What is a state pipeline safety portal and how can I access it?
A state pipeline safety profile features state-specific information on pipelines. To view your state’s pipeline safety profile, visit the Community Toolbox and select your state from the drop-down menu located at the upper left of the page.
What kinds of information can I access through my state pipeline safety profile?
Profiles differ slightly due to differences in pipeline locations and safety status in each state. Most profiles feature the following:
- Overview of the purposes of pipelines and the importance of pipeline safety
- Interactive map of pipelines in your area and their operators
- Records of pipeline incidents in your state
- Reports on state inspections and enforcement
- Contact information for PHMSA’s Office of Pipeline Safety and regional community assistance and technical services managers
- Links to other resources such as “Call 811 Before You Dig,” the National Association of Pipeline Safety Representatives (NAPSR), and local newspapers for news related to pipelines
America's pipelines carry important materials that help fuel our lives and our economy. DOT and PHMSA want to make sure the pipelines in your community remain safe, but pipeline safety is a shared responsibility. You can help maintain the safety of pipelines in your community by using the resources available on your state’s pipeline safety profile.
Learn more about PHMSA today at http://phmsa.dot.gov/.
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