OSHA Pipeline Safety

Function

• OSHA creates pipeline safety regulations and also works with the American Pipeline Contractors Association to identify pipeline hazards. Some common pipeline hazards include gas leaks and pipes that shift during testing procedures. The two organizations work together to develop training methods for construction workers who install or work near pipelines, especially at excavation and trenching sites.
  
  

Features

• OSHA produces bulletins alerting workers and employers to past injuries from damaged pipelines and suggesting ways to prevent the same types of incidents in the future. It also conducts seminars and lectures to discuss pipeline safety.
  
  

Types

• Before new pipelines are deemed safe for natural gas, workers test them for leaks by running water through them. Some reminders that OSHA gives pipeline industry workers are to call 911 if pipeline damage causes natural gas exposure and to alert pipeline operators right away if workers accidentally damage a pipeline. It also tells employers to make sure that pipelines have secure anchors during water testing and to ensure employees have enough training to perform pipeline work and testing safely. Additionally, OSHA tells employers only to allow necessary workers near the pipeline during testing.