CAUTION IF WORKING NEAR TO BPA’S BURIED PIPELINES
Not taking the correct precautions when working near to BPA’s buried pipelines can have serious consequences.
BPA is however here to help by raising awareness of the issues and providing information and resource at no cost to those working in the vicinity of the buried pipelines. With the right information and advice, we hope to reduce the risk of a serious incident on the pipelines that we manage.
The buried pipelines carry large volumes of highly flammable petroleum or natural gas products at very high pressure. BPA’s land team supports landowners across the country by providing advice and support should works need to be carried out near to BPA’s buried pipelines.
The Pipeline Safety Regulations 1996 states that no person shall cause such damage to a pipeline as may give rise to a danger to persons. Breaking these conditions can lead to prosecution, injury or even death as well as potentially some significant environmental damage.
If damage occurs to a buried pipeline, those commissioning the works (or their contractor) are responsible for any liability under the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974. Additionally, should there be any environmental damage, landowners may face prosecution by the Environment Agency as damage to a pipeline can cause serious pollution of soil, water and the atmosphere which is likely to lead to prosecution.
As well as potential prosecution or environmental damage, landowners could face a significant financial penalty as the repair and subsequent clean-up costs of a pipeline incident are typically in the region of £10m.
BPA is empowered to stop all works near the pipeline if it is considered to be unsafe to the pipeline. The team is however on hand to offer free consultations over the phone or visit the site to help provide support and advice to those looking to operate near to the pipeline network.
Don’t risk damaging a buried pipeline. Contact a member of BPA’s lands team if you are considering undertaking works near to BPA’s buried pipeline network.
