On the same day as the Pipeline Safety Forum in DC (April 18), PHMSA launched a new Pipeline Safety Awareness website that will provide the public, community planners and developers an easy to understand, accessible place for information and guidance on locating area pipelines. The new website is part of the Department’s pipeline safety action plan to address immediate concerns in pipeline safety, such as ensuring pipeline operators know the age and condition of their pipelines; and proposing new regulations to strengthen reporting and inspection requirements.

“Most people have no idea about the pipelines running under their houses and through their neighborhoods,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “As part of my national call to action on pipeline safety, we are launching this website to provide the public with information about the location of these pipelines and the safety record of the companies that operate them.” The web site includes safety advisories on specific pipelines, as well as maps, reports, research, frequently asked questions and other resources to help inform the public on their local pipeline infrastructure. PHMSA will continue to update and add new information to the website as it becomes available. “Ensuring the public has access to information about local pipelines will help keep people safe and reduce the potential for serious accidents,” said PHMSA Administrator Cynthia Quarterman.