Reporting Suspicious Activities Near Buried High-Pressure Pipelines: A Guide to Community Safety

Reporting Suspicious Activities Near Buried High-Pressure Pipelines

High-pressure pipelines are vital to transporting natural gas, oil, and other critical resources that power our homes, industries, and vehicles. These pipelines often run underground, hidden from view but essential to our daily lives. While they are built to be safe and resilient, their importance makes them potential targets for damage, vandalism, or even product theft.

Identifying and reporting suspicious activities near these pipelines can help ensure safety, environmental protection, and the integrity of our energy infrastructure.

Why is Monitoring Pipeline Safety Critical?

Buried high-pressure pipelines carry highly pressurized and potentially hazardous materials. A breach or damage to these pipelines can lead to severe consequences, including:

  • Explosions or Fires: The release of flammable gases or liquids can ignite, leading to catastrophic events.
  • Environmental Damage: Spills can contaminate soil, waterways, and ecosystems, causing long-term harm.
  • Service Disruption: Damage can interrupt the supply of critical resources, impacting businesses and households.
  • Safety Risks: Nearby communities and workers may face serious health and safety hazards.

Because of these risks, communities play a crucial role in safeguarding pipeline infrastructure by staying vigilant and reporting unusual or suspicious activities.

Recognising Suspicious Activities

Here are some examples of what might be considered suspicious near buried high-pressure pipelines:

  1. Unauthorized Digging: Excavations or digging near pipeline markers without visible permits or official signage.
  2. Unmarked Vehicles or Equipment: Vehicles parked or equipment operating near pipeline sites without logos or identifiers.
  3. Unusual Behaviour: Individuals loitering or taking photos near pipeline markers, pumping stations, or related facilities without a clear reason.
  4. Tampering with Equipment: Attempts to open valves, break locks, or interfere with monitoring systems.
  5. Unauthorised Construction: Projects or installations that seem to be encroaching on a pipeline’s right-of-way.

If you observe any of these activities, it is better to err on the side of caution and report your concerns.

Steps to Report Suspicious Activities

If you notice anything unusual or concerning near a pipeline, follow these steps:

  1. Note Key Details: Record the location, time, and description of the activity or individuals involved. Take note of vehicle license plates or distinguishing features if safe to do so.
  2. Avoid Direct Confrontation: Do not approach individuals or attempt to intervene. Your safety is the priority.
  3. Contact Authorities: Call your local emergency services or the pipeline operator’s emergency hotline, which is usually listed on nearby pipeline markers.
  4. Follow Up: If required, provide additional information to authorities or pipeline representatives to assist with their investigation.

Understanding Pipeline Markers

Pipeline markers are placed to indicate the presence of buried pipelines and often include the operator’s contact information and an emergency number. These markers do not indicate the exact location or depth of the pipeline but serve as a reminder to exercise caution in the area.

Protecting Pipelines is a Shared Responsibility

Maintaining the safety and security of buried high-pressure pipelines is not just the responsibility of pipeline operators—it’s a collective effort. By staying alert to suspicious activities and acting promptly to report them, you play a critical role in preventing accidents and protecting both people and the environment.

If you’re unsure who to contact, start with the number on the pipeline marker, BPA’s lands team on 0800 585 387 or call your local authorities. Together, we can ensure that these vital resources remain secure and reliable for generations to come.

/by BPA Management

DO NOT DIG NEAR BURIED PIPELINES UNTIL YOU KNOW WHAT’S BELOW

Don't dig near to buried pipelines

Each year we write to the landowners and tenants along our pipeline network to remind them to not undertake any digging, excavation, fencing, ditching, mole ploughing or the installation of land drainage within 50m of the buried pipeline without prior authorisation from BPA.

We recognise that these activities are necessary, however for critical safety reasons landowners are required to liaise with us as the pipeline operator first. To assist landowners, we have a dedicated ‘Landowner Services’ team who are available to provide support and advice over the phone or visit the site to free of charge.

If you are looking to undertake works near to buried pipelines, BPA’s lands team ask that those who are looking to undertake any works within 50 metres of a buried BPA pipeline follow the following guidelines:

  • Give a minimum of 7 days-notice before works begin. This will ensure we can fully support you with your proposed activities.
  • Never assume you can go ahead unless consent is given. BPA’s team is on hand to support your work, however works should not begin until permission is granted
  • Be aware that pipeline depths vary across the country and can often be found only a metre below the surface, they are also seldom protected with concrete slabs.
  • Care should be taken when looking to clear ditches as the pipeline depths vary and may even not have protective cover in places
  • Pipelines do not always run in straight lines between marker posts. Although posts are used to mark the location of a pipeline at a field boundary, not all pipelines run in straight lines between posts. BPA’s team is available to help mark out the exact location.
  • Be aware that other infrastructure, such as cables, can be buried shallower than the pipeline. There are often other potentially hazardous or safety critical infrastructure buried along the pipeline lengths, these can be found at even shallower depth to the pipeline.

It is also the landowner’s responsibility to ensure that employees and contractors operating on their land comply with regulations as damage to pipelines can pose a significant risk to life, as well as potentially serious environmental damage if a product is released.

Landowners who do not comply with the requirements could also be prosecuted by the HSE as Regulation 15 of the Pipelines Safety Regulations Act states: “No person shall cause such damage to a pipeline as may give rise to dangers to persons”.  It is the landowner’s responsibility to ensure that employees, contractors and others operating on their land comply with regulations.

As well as potential prosecution, damage to the pipeline could lead to environmental harm through serious pollution of soil, water, and the atmosphere, which is likely to lead to prosecution by the Environment Agency. The cost of repair and subsequent clean-up is likely to exceed £1m.

To support landowners needing to undertake works near to buried pipelines, BPA’s Landowner Services team is on hand and able to support landowners regarding any questions or queries that they may have.  Our team is available 24/7 to offer advice and support landowners.  Contact us via the website or call 0800 585 387.

/by BPA Management

Line Walking Surveys for Buried Pipelines

Line walking BPA's pipeline network

Throughout the year, the BPA Lands Team constantly monitors and inspects our buried pipeline network to identify any potential threats or problems along the route. Among the various inspection methods, line walking surveys are perhaps the best at detecting issues that might not be apparent through other monitoring techniques.

What is a Line Walking Survey?

A line walking survey involves physically walking along the route of a buried pipeline to establish the condition of the surrounding environment. This practice is particularly effective in identifying localised issues such as ground movement, shallow cover, or encroachments that could pose a threat to the pipeline’s integrity.

While other survey methods like aerial or overline inspections provide a broader overview, line walking allows us to undertake a close-up assessment that can reveal subtle changes and potential hazards that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Legislative and Standard Requirements

In the UK, the maintenance of pipelines is governed by the Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996 (PSR), which, while not specifying line walking as a mandatory practice, emphasises the need for regular maintenance and inspection to ensure pipeline safety.

Regulation 13 of the PSR mandates that pipelines be maintained in an efficient state and in good repair. This regulation underscores the importance of regular inspections, including line walking surveys, to validate and maintain pipeline safety.

Industry standards also provide guidance on the frequency and conduct of line walking surveys. It is recommended that pipeline routes be walked at least once every four years unless a risks require a different frequency. Similarly, it is important for regular inspections to identify factors that could affect pipeline safety, such as third-party activities, ground movement, or environmental changes.

Risk-Based Approach to Line Walking

Given the varying environments through which pipelines traverse, a one-size-fits-all approach to line walking is not practical. Instead, a risk-based approach is undertaken where the frequency and focus of line walks are tailored to the specific risks associated with different sections of the pipeline. This approach considers factors such as the potential for ground movement, the proximity of the pipeline to populated areas, and the likelihood of third-party interference.

For example, pipelines located in areas prone to flooding, ground erosion, or significant human activity may require more frequent inspections. Conversely, sections of the pipeline in stable, less populated areas might be inspected less frequently. The risk-based approach ensures that resources are allocated efficiently, with more attention given to high-risk areas that are more likely to experience issues.

Our inspectors are equipped with the necessary tools to document their findings, such as GPS devices, cameras, and notebooks. They also have clear guidelines on what to look for, including the condition of marker posts, signs of ground movement, and any new developments in the area that could impact the pipeline.

What we Look For During a Line Walk

During a line walking survey, inspectors focus on identifying any signs of degradation or potential threats to the pipeline. Key areas of concern include:

  • Marker Posts and Cathodic Protection (CP) Test Posts: These are critical for maintaining pipeline integrity. Inspectors ensure that they are intact and functioning properly.
  • Signs of Ground Movement or Shallow Cover: Changes in the landscape, such as soil erosion or ground subsidence, can reduce the cover over the pipeline, increasing the risk of damage.
  • New Developments: Construction activities or new buildings near the pipeline can pose a threat if not properly managed. Inspectors should be vigilant for any changes in land use.
  • Third-Party Activities: Unauthorized activities near the pipeline, such as excavation or construction, are a significant risk and should be reported immediately.

Responding to Immediate Threats

If an immediate threat to the pipeline is identified during a line walk, our inspectors will take prompt action. This could involve stopping any nearby construction activities or marking the area for further investigation. Aquick response is crucial to preventing potential accidents or damage.

Post-Survey Actions

After completing a line walk, the team documents all findings comprehensively. This includes recording any issues identified, actions taken, and recommendations for further inspection or repair. Proper documentation ensures that all concerns are addressed and provides a record for future reference.

Line walking surveys are a vital component of pipeline integrity management. By allowing for close-up inspection of the pipeline and its environment, they help identify potential threats before they become critical issues.

If you see a member of BPA’s Lands Team undertaking a line survey on land near you, feel free to ask them any questions or concerns you may have about the buried pipeline network in your area.  Alternatively, contact the BPA’s lands team by clicking here.

/by BPA Management
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DON’T DIG NEAR TO BURIED PIPELINES

With the unseasonably wet weather the UK has experienced this year, here we remind landowners “Don’t dig near to pipelines” without permission from the pipeline operator.

Britain has more than 27,000 km of buried pipelines used to transport a range of products at high pressures of up to 100 bar. This includes flammable and explosive products such as oil, natural gas, ethylene, and petroleum, as well as less obviously hazardous materials such as water.

Prior to working in the vicinity of high-pressure pipelines, landowners are required to contact the pipeline operator. BPA asks its landowners that they are notified for any works within 50m of a pipeline, particularly if the pipeline is known to be at a shallow depth.

When we are contacted we can provide safety guidance and advice including coming out and marking out the pipeline to enable the farmer or landowner to carry on with the required activities.

Contractors, employees and temporary staff working on the land also need to be informed of the pipeline locations to discuss and agree on the necessary precautions before starting work.

Agricultural activities that pose a significant risk to pipelines include the installation or repair of drainage pipes or clearing ditches near buried pipelines. Such activities often require heavy machinery and can easily excavate close to the pipeline’s nominal depth of 1m.

To prevent risks to landowner and pipeline, anyone planning works within 3 metres of a our buried pipelines must obtain permission from BPA. This is not to prevent the works, but simply to ensure they are undertaken safely.

Pipeline marker posts

The locations of pipelines are normally indicated by marker posts at the edges of fields; however, marker posts can be accidentally moved or damaged, and pipelines may not run in a straight line between posts and aerial markers.

Who to contact for buried pipelines

Pipeline marker post

The depth of the pipeline’s cover may also be reduced in parts, so contact our lands team so we can advise on the exact location of the pipeline. We can arrange to visit the site, trace and accurately mark out the exact pipeline location, and provide guidance on safe working while near to the pipeline.

To help ensure the best and safest outcomes for all, farmers or contractors are advised not to undertake any works within three metres of a buried pipeline. If planning works, please:

  • Never assume the route or depth of pipeline.
  • Give pipeline operators sufficient notice before works begin.
  • Do not proceed with works until consent is given by the pipeline operator.
  • Be aware that pipeline depths vary and can often be found less than 1m below the surface.
  • Remember pipelines do not always run in straight lines between marker posts.
  • Be aware that other safety-critical infrastructure, such as cables, valve chambers and standpipes, can be buried along the pipeline lengths; these can be found at even shallower depths than the pipeline.

Landowner Responsibilities

Damage to pipelines can pose a significant risk to life, as well as potentially serious environmental damage if a product is released. It can also lead to prosecution by the HSE as Regulation 15 of the Pipelines Safety Regulations Act states: “No person shall cause such damage to a pipeline as may give rise to dangers to persons”.

Working near pipelines without taking the correct precautions can have serious consequences and potential prosecution.  It is the landowner’s responsibility to ensure that employees, contractors and others operating on their land comply with regulations.

As well as potential prosecution, damage to the pipeline could lead to environmental harm through serious pollution of soil, water, and the atmosphere, which is likely to lead to prosecution by the Environment Agency. The cost of repair and subsequent clean-up is likely to exceed £1m.

If in doubt, contact BPA as we are here to help. More information and videos on what to do and not do near to buried pipelines can be found here.

/by BPA Management

BE AWARE OF BURIED PIPELINES WHEN EXTENDING HOMES

Be aware of pipelines when developing homes

Since 2015, homeowners have been able to benefit from ‘Permitted Development Rights’ that allow them to carry out certain building works on a property without the need for local authority planning permission or ‘approval’ from neighbours. However, home owners should be aware of buried pipelines when developing homes.

The rules generally apply to single-storey side or rear extensions, loft conversions, front porches, double storey extensions, outbuildings, pools, solar panels, skylights of dormer windows and new windows or doors. However, extensions beyond a certain size or height are still bound by the relevant Neighbour Consultation Scheme and the Local Authority will still need to be informed.

However, before a landowner carries out an extension, lays a driveway or constructs an outbuilding or pool they still need to consider whether they are within a pipeline easement and, if so, need to inform and seek permission from the pipeline operator. Without doing so, undertaking works within a pipeline’s easement is not only in breach of the Pipelines Safety Regulations Act (1996) but also poses a serious safety risk to the homeowner, contractor as well as the environment.

Please note that crucially, the planning system is separate from and does not override the existing rules and requirements as detailed within the existing pipeline lease.

To protect the pipeline network and ensure that there are no breaches of the Pipeline Safety Regulations (1996), BPA not only monitors the pipelines remotely but undertakes bi-weekly helicopter patrols, regular line-walking and visual surveys. Homeowners who live within the easement of a pipeline also receive an annual letter reminding them of the pipeline and the regulations and notifications required if a homeowner is proposing to carrying out works in a pipeline’s vicinity.

It is therefore important that landowners respond to BPA’s annual letter to ensure that their contact details are up to date so both parties can easily be informed, should works need to be carried out near to pipelines.

If you are planning to extend or alter your home or garden under permitted development rights (or via the conventional planning application route), to prevent potential damage to buried high pressure pipelines always contact the pipeline operator in advance of works (and ideally the application) so they can advise you of good practices, locate and mark out the pipeline and ultimately supervise works if required.

If you do construct a building over the pipeline or within it’s easement, you are not only endangering your own life in the process, but the building will ultimately also need to be removed, at your cost.

We hope this information is useful regarding permitted development and pipelines. If in doubt, contact a member of BPA’s lands team and we will be happy to assist.

/by BPA Management

WHO TO CONTACT ABOUT BURIED PIPELINES?

Pipeline marker post - Who to contact for buried pipelines

There are more than 27,000 KM of buried pipelines in the UK, but who should landowners contact about buried pipelines if they have any questions or are looking to undertake works in proximity of them?

There are numerous organisations who can assist and point landowners in the right direction if they are looking to inform the pipeline operator of any scheduled works. Most pipeline operators write to landowners and tenants to ensure that they have their contact details in case of emergencies or if they need to ask for supervision of any works being undertaken. This documentation should have the operator’s contact details.

In BPA’s case the contact number if 0800 585 387. This number is manned 24/7 and is there in case of emergencies and to forward calls to BPA’s lands team should landowners have any specific questions.

If you are unsure of who operates the pipeline there are other organisations who will be able to assist and point you in the right direction.  The first is LinesearchbeforeUdig (LSBUD) which is a free to use service that any individual can use to check their works against over 140 operators who own and manage buried utility assets.

These assets include hundreds of thousands of kilometres of underground pipelines and cables in the electricity, gas, high pressure fuel, water and fibre optic networks. The service processes over 3.7 million enquiries per annum – that’s more than one every 10 seconds.

If you are on site and near to a pipeline, it’s likely that you will see a marker post that informs the public that there is a pipeline in close proximity.  The details of the pipeline operator are also available on the marker post itself to assist landowners.

If looking to contact the pipeline operator, we would advocate giving them as much notice as possible so that they can offer advice, come out to site or help supervise works as well as mark out exactly where the pipeline is located.

By working with landowners, utility companies or other bodies that may be required to dig in the vicinity of buried pipelines LSBUD and BPA aim to ensure a prompt and accurate response to all enquiries in an effort to reduce injuries and deaths due to asset strikes.

BPA also writes to landowners and tenants to ensure that the contact details are correct so that the organisation can contact them should they need to inform them of repairs or other works that need to be undertaken on the pipeline infrastructure. Please help us by responding to the letters and keeping your details up to date.

Details can be kept up to date by clicking here.

We hope this information is useful on who to contact about buried pipelines. If in doubt contact a member of BPA’s lands team and we will be happy to assist.

/by BPA Management

WORKING SAFELY NEAR HIGH PRESSURE PIPELINES

advice on working safely near to buried high pressure pipelines

Safe working near to buried high pressure pipelines is critical to protect both people and the planet. Here we outline some good practice guidelines for those working near to high pressure pipelines when undertaking agricultural work such as fencing, clearing ditches or installing drains, as well as any other activity that could pose a risk to the pipeline’s integrity.

Britain has more than 27,000km of buried pipelines used to transport a range of products at pressures of up to 100 bar. This includes flammable and explosive products such as oil, natural gas, ethylene and petroleum as well as less obviously hazardous material such as water.

Damage to these pipelines can pose a significant risk to life as well as potentially serious environmental damage if product is released. It can also lead to prosecution by the HSE as under the Pipelines Safety Regulations Act; “No persons shall cause such damage to a pipeline as may give rise to dangers to persons.”

Prior to working in the vicinity of high pressure pipelines, other than routine agricultural activities up to 300mm deep such as ploughing, seeding or harvesting – landowners should contact the pipeline operator who will provide any guidance or advice required.  Contractors and temporary staff working on the land also need to be informed of where the pipelines are to discuss and agree with them the precautions they need to take before they start work.

One area of agricultural activity that has been identified as posing a significant risk to pipelines is the installation of drainage pipes. Installing drainage often requires heavy machinery and excavating close to the pipeline’s nominal depth of 1m. To prevent risks, anyone planning works within 3 metres of a buried pipeline needs to obtain permission from the pipeline operator. This is not to prevent the works, but simply to ensure that they are undertaken safely.

The location of pipelines is normally indicated by marker posts at the edges of fields, however, be advised that marker posts can be accidentally moved or damaged and that pipelines may not run in a straight line between posts. The depth of the pipeline’s cover may also be reduced in parts, so contact the pipeline operator in advance of any works and they can visit your land to locate and mark out the pipeline and advise what activities can and cannot be done safely.

If physical contact is made with a pipeline, shut down all working machinery and remove all sources of ignition.  Evacuate all people from the immediate area and if the pipeline is leaking dial 999 to inform the emergency services.  Do not attempt to seal a leaking pipeline and do not attempt to extinguish the fire (if one is present).

When the area is secure, contact the pipeline operator’s emergency telephone number that can be found on a nearby pipeline marker post, or from the communications you will have had from the pipeline operator.  The pipeline operator will advise of next steps and will make the area safe.

To prevent damage to buried high pressure pipelines, and any subsequent prosecutions, always contact the pipeline operator in advance of works so they can advise you of good practices, locate and mark out the pipeline and supervise works if required.

BPA are available 24/7 to offer advice and support landowners.  Contact us via the website or call 0800 585 387.

/by BPA Management

CLEARING DITCHES NEAR TO BURIED PIPELINES

Ditch clearing near buried pipelines

With the unseasonably wet weather the UK has experienced this summer, BPA’s Landowner Services team is asking landowners to be aware of buried high pressure oil pipelines before clearing ditches.

Many farmers and landowners are taking the opportunity to clear ditches to help alleviate the potential for flooding or water damage.  As part of BPA’s Know What’s Below campaign, the company regularly communicates with landowners to warn them of the risks to pipelines if the right procedures are not followed when clearing ditches along the company’s 1000km of buried oil pipelines.

Keeping watercourses well maintained benefits the community, particularly if an area experiences flooding as poorly maintained watercourses can be a nuisance, restrict access to property and can result in considerable expense and inconvenience for those that have been flooded.

Issues arise when landowners or contractors clear ditches with an excavator or other mechanical equipment as they have the potential to damage the buried high pressure oil pipelines.  Farmers or other landowners looking to operate in the vicinity of buried pipelines should contact the pipeline operator in advance before starting any works.

To help ensure the best and safest outcomes for all, BPA’s lands team ask that those who are looking to undertake any works within three metres of a buried BPA pipeline:

  • Give a minimum of 7 days-notice before works begin. This will ensure we can fully support you with your proposed activities.
  • Never assume you can go ahead unless consent is given. BPA’s team will be on hand to support your work, however, works should not begin until permission is granted.
  • Be aware pipeline depths vary under ditches and are not always protected with slabs. Be aware that pipeline depths vary across the country and can often be found only a metre below the surface, they are also seldom protected with concrete slabs.
  • Seek advice as pipelines do not always run in straight lines between marker posts. Although posts are used to mark the location of a pipeline at a field boundary, not all pipelines run in straight lines between posts. We’re here to help mark out the exact location.
  • Be aware that other infrastructure, such as cables, can be buried shallower than the pipeline. Often there are other potentially hazardous or safety critical infrastructure buried along the pipeline lengths, these can be found at even shallower depth to the pipeline.

Landowner’s responsibilities

It is also the landowner’s responsibility to ensure that contractors operating on their land comply with regulations.  Working near pipelines without taking the correct precautions can have serious consequences.

BPA’s Landowner Services team is on hand and able to support landowners regarding any questions or queries that they may have.  Our team is available 24/7 to offer advice and support landowners.  Contact us via the website or call 0800 585 387

/by BPA Management

Know What’s Below 2023

Know What's Below Campaign to keep landowners informed about buried high pressure oil pipelines

As part if its annual ‘Know What’s Below’ campaign, each year BPA’s lands team write to more than 2000 landowners across the country asking them to confirm that their contact details are correct so the company can get in contact with them should any work need to be carried out on the buried high pressure oil pipelines that run under their land.

The communication also gives landowners the opportunity to update their contact details and acts as a reminder as to the best practice guidelines, should landowners need to work in the vicinity of the pipeline.

As part of BPA’s Know What’s Below campaign and to support the process, BPA’s lands team has developed several ways in which landowners can contact the company to ensure their contact details are correct.  Not only is there a pre-paid envelope to respond to the letter but there is also an opportunity to respond via the website, via SMS or by calling the company’s freephone number.

Contacting landowners is also important as it reminds them of best practice and to contact BPA should they need to carry our works near to buried high pressure oil pipelines.  Below is a list of typical activities that may require pre-notification and approval from the pipeline operator. This is not an exhaustive list of works so contact should always be made prior to works beginning.

  • New or Replacement Fencing
  • Ditch clearance
  • Excavation activities
  • Subsoiling
  • Mole ploughing
  • Drainage work
  • Planting of trees and shrubs
  • Tree/Shrub removal
  • Building/Construction work
  • Installation of new services
  • Installation/Repair of roads and tracks

Having improved communications channels helps ensure that both the landowner and the pipeline operator have the correct contact details should there be an emergency or if BPA’s team need to access the land to undertake emergency works.

Due to the good communications between BPA and its landowners, illegal infringements have been kept to a minimum.  Pipelines in the UK are protected by The Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996 which makes it illegal to cause any damage to the pipeline intentionally or unintentionally. As such, anyone working within 3 meters either side of the pipeline should contact the pipeline operator as working near to the pipeline without contacting the pipeline operator is generally illegal.  BPA advises that even if a landowner is aware of the pipeline, it is always best to contact the operator if planning works.  The operator can then send someone to supervise the works at no expense to the landowner.

If you receive a letter from BPA as part of the Know What’s Below campaign, please respond even if your contact details are correct.  That way we can be sure to have the correct contact information if needed.  Equally if you are planning any works near to the pipeline, please remember to contact a member of the BPA team and we can help ensure all works are undertaken safely.

/by BPA Management

FACTS ABOUT BURIED PIPELINES IN THE UK

Buried pipelines in the UK

Buried underneath the UK run a network of pipelines safely and efficiently carrying a range of products (including fuel, gas and chemicals) to strategic points across the country.

BPA is responsible for managing more than 2000km of buried pipelines that carry fuel at high pressure from ports and refineries to storage and distribution points across the UK.  Here we outline some fun facts about the UK’s buried pipeline network:

Did you know..?

  • The United Kingdom Pipeline Operators’ Association (UKOPA) manage more than 27,000 km of pipelines in the UK (nearly 5 times the distance between London and New York). Of that pipeline, more than 14,000km are buried oil and gas pipelines.  The pipelines run under agricultural land as well as through towns and cities.
  • The pipelines are actually shallower than many people realise and are often at a nominal dept of only 3 feet. In places they can be even shallower and are sometimes visible when crossing canals and rivers.
  • Damaging a pipeline can be very expensive – it is estimated that a damaged pipeline can cost around £15m to repair, this cost can escalate dramatically if there is a loss of product into the environment or the damage leads to explosion or a serious incident / injury.
  • Pipelines are protected by The Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996 which makes it illegal to cause any damage to the pipeline intentionally or unintentionally. Working within 3 meters either side of the pipeline, without contacting the pipeline operator is generally illegal, so even if you have some knowledge about the pipeline it is always best to contact the operator if planning works.
  • The original pipelines were installed during the second world war to safely deliver fuel to British and US airbases around the country.
  • High-pressure oil and gas pipelines are laid in welded steel sections and carry products at high pressure – up to 50 times that of a car tyre.
  • Transporting product by pipeline greatly reduces the amount of tankers on the road and helps efficiently meet the UK’s fuel needs.
  • For anyone working within the vicinity of a pipeline, typically 50 metres, it’s essential that the pipeline operator knows about your presence.  This means contacting the pipeline operators if you are installing drains or pipes, deepening ditches, putting up fences, or doing any other construction or excavation work.
  • The route of the pipelines is constantly checked, both on foot and from the air.  Any infringements or unauthorised works will be detected.
  • The pipelines are indicated by a series of marker posts at key locations, however pipelines do not always travel in straight lines between marker posts so it is always best to contact the pipelines operator if you have any questions.

If you have any questions about the location of a pipeline on your land or if you would like to contact a member of BPA’s team to discuss undertaking some works near to the buried pipelines, contact a member of BPA’s Lands Team on 0800 585 387.

/by BPA Management