Actions Needed to Enhance Pipeline Security

The Nations pipeline infrastructure is a network of approximately 2 million miles of pipelines that move millions of gallons of hazardous liquids and billions of cubic feet of natural gas daily. Within the United States, there are about 2,200 natural gas pipeline operators and 300 hazardous liquids pipeline operators. DOTs Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is responsible for overseeing the safety of the Nations pipeline system. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) within DHS is responsible for securing the Nations transportation infrastructure, including pipelines. Safeguarding the Nations massive pipeline infrastructure from catastrophic events (i.e., terrorism or natural disasters) is a continuing challenge for DOT and DHS. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast region and demonstrated the vulnerabilities of the Nations critical infrastructure. Loss of electrical power to pumping stations forced three major pipeline operators to shut down. This eliminated most fuel sources to the entire eastern seaboard and caused a vast array of economic disruptions, including hoarding and severe price spikes.

• Corporate Authors:

  Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

  Department of Transportation
  East Building, 2nd Floor, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Publication Date: 2008

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Pagination: 26p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Freight security; Hazardous materials; Infrastructure; Liquids; Natural gas; Pipeline safety; Pipeline transportation; Pipelines; Security
• Subject Areas: Pipelines; Safety and Human Factors; Security and Emergencies; Terminals and Facilities;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01113377
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: AV-2008-053
• Files: TRIS, USDOT
• Created Date: Oct 21 2008 12:39PM