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Call before you dig
In the event of an emergency you can call Enbridge's 24-hour, toll-free emergency number at
1 (877) 420-8800
Understanding The Right-Of-Way
While permanent pipeline markers are located at roads, railways and other intervals along the right-of-way, these show only the approximate location of the buried pipelines.
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Pipeline Safety
Pipeline Safety: Central to our Operations
We ensure we meet or exceed all applicable industry standards and governmental regulations. We are recognized as an industry leader in pipeline safety and integrity, ensuring that regardless of age, our pipelines are safe. We maintain each line’s integrity with regular monitoring and proactive maintenance practices.
Safety and environmental protection are our highest priorities. Here are some of the steps we take:
| Step 1. |
We purchase high-quality steel pipe that is coated with tough, impervious coatings to prevent future corrosion of the steel. We source locally where possible, with a significant portion of our pipeline produced in Saskatchewan. |
| Step 2. |
We ensure that multi-layer welds are completed on newly installed pipe. The anti-corrosion coating on the pipe is supplemented by the use of a cathodic protection system – installing metal rods along the pipeline, connected to a surface power source that draws corrosion away from the pipeline. These early safety measures add to the strength and longevity of our pipelines. |
| Step 3. |
Newly installed pipe is pressure tested and monitored to ensure its strength prior to being placed into service. |
| Step 4. |
The condition of the pipeline is monitored on an ongoing basis through the use of sophisticated In-Line Inspection tools that utilize ultrasonic and electromagnetic sensors to look for any defects or anomalies and to confirm the integrity of the pipeline. These tools, sometimes called "smart pigs," are sent through our pipelines at regular intervals, checking both the inside and outside of the pipeline along its entire length. |
| Step 5. |
If Enbridge identifies a section of pipe that is subject to corrosion, cracks or other problems that could affect the integrity of the pipeline, we excavate the section for closer examination and make any needed repairs. |
| Step 6. |
Every hour of every day, we monitor pipeline integrity electronically using our Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) computer systems and our Computational Pipeline Monitoring sensor system that can detect even small releases. If required, this system can immediately shut down operations of a pipeline. |
Working in Partnership with our Landowners and Communities
Good working relationships between Enbridge Pipelines and property owners and tenants along the pipeline right-of-way are essential to the safety and reliability of the system.
Enbridge takes its responsibility for pipeline safety very seriously. Being responsible for pipeline safety, however, does not mean working alone. Employees work year-round to ensure safe, reliable operations, and the company regularly communicates important information to local governments; community fire, police and ambulance services; utilities, contractors; landowners and neighbours.
Preparedness means developing integrated response plans based on open communication and teamwork. Enbridge Pipelines ensures that local fire, police and ambulance services have the information they require. The company holds regular training exercises in select locations throughout the year to keep employees' skills fresh. Landowners and neighbours also make an important contribution to the team. By observing right-of-way safety precautions and keeping in touch, they can help prevent accidents.
All of these inspection steps enable us to deal proactively with integrity and safety issues.
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