Who Watches Out for Pipeline Safety?

First and foremost... pipeline companies are responsible for the safety and reliability of their own pipeline systems. Additionally, federal and state regulators oversee compliance with a host of regulatory requirements.

Almost all aspects of the pipeline business and pipeline operations are regulated.

The safety aspects of pipeline operations are audited and inspected frequently by the federal Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS) in cooperation with the states in which pipelines are located.

When new oil pipelines are being considered, operators must work with both state and federal permitting agencies, which are responsible for protecting wetlands, wildlife, ecosystems, and drinking water resources.

Whenever new pipe is installed in the ground, workers are protected by requirements of the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Facilities including pipeline terminals and tank farms fall under local requirements based on codes published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

The tariffs pipelines charge for the transportation services they provide are overseen by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

For links to these regulatory agencies, visit the Pipeline 101 - Links page.