Pipelines and Public Safety: Damage Prevention, Land Use, and Emergency Preparedness

摘要

The safety performance of transmission pipelines is better than those of most other modes of transportation. However, because the materials that pipelines carry are flammable, explosive, or toxic, pipelines pose a danger to people or property if these materials are released to the environment as the result of a pipeline failure. Damage caused by excavation is a leading cause of pipeline failure. In response to a recommendation by the National Transportation Safety Board that the adequacy of public policies for land use near pipelines be examined, the Transportation Research Board assembled a study committee of eight members with expertise in pipeline operations, accident analysis, land use planning, and safety program management. The result of their study is a synthesis of policies and practices used by government and industry to enhance public safety near long-distance transmission pipelines and recommendations for strengthening those policies and practices.