More than a half century of experience has proven that pipeline transport is the single safest, most reliable method of oil and petroleum transport available.

Pipelines have the safest record in energy transportation because pipeline operators like Enbridge make substantial investments in the design, construction, operation, maintenance and monitoring of our pipeline systems.

Enbridge has a preventive maintenance program for our pipeline system that includes:

• constant computerized monitoring
• routine inspections
• aerial patrols of rights-of-way
• education outreach to landowners, excavators and local officials

Enbridge is recognized as an industry leader in pipeline safety and integrity. Our activities – everything from pipeline design, construction, testing, maintenance, operation and safety practices – are subject to government regulations, which we work hard to meet or exceed.

Safety in processes and technologies

Our pipelines undergo rigorous testing during construction, before being placed in service and during normal operations, using many of the following processes and technologies to prevent and detect leaks:

• careful selection and testing of pipe prior to and during manufacturing
• x-ray or ultrasonic testing of all welds made to a pipeline section during its construction
• sophisticated monitoring and control systems that operate around the clock, 365 days a year
• research and development on technologies designed to prevent corrosion and cracking
• tests to confirm pipeline integrity on new pipelines/systems
• the use of durable coating systems and cathodic protection (use of low voltage electric current) to protect pipe from external corrosion