Every year, thousands of people across the UK safely carry out farming, construction, drainage and land management activities near buried pipelines. However, new figures published by the United Kingdom Onshore Pipeline Operators’ Association (UKOPA) highlight why it is so important to know what lies beneath the ground before any work begins.
According to UKOPA’s latest Infringement Database Report, 880 pipeline infringements were recorded across the UK’s buried pipeline network during 2024 – a 33% increase compared with the previous year. While many of these incidents did not result in damage, three involved actual damage to pipelines, demonstrating that the risks remain very real.
The report, which is compiled annually by UKOPA’s Infringement Working Group, found that the majority of incidents occurred on farmland and private land, accounting for more than 73% of all reported infringements. Activities such as excavation, ditching, fencing and installation works were among the most common causes. Landowners were associated with more than 60% of reported incidents, while contractors also accounted for a significant proportion.
For BPA, which operates a network of high-pressure fuel pipelines and is a member of UKOPA, these findings reinforce an important message: most pipeline incidents are preventable.
Buried pipelines are critical national infrastructure, transporting products safely and efficiently across the country. Although they are generally located underground and out of sight, they can be at relatively shallow depths in some locations. Activities such as fencing, drainage installation, ditch maintenance, tree planting and excavation all have the potential to damage a pipeline if appropriate precautions are not taken. Damage can pose serious risks to people, property, the environment and the continuity of essential fuel supplies.
The good news is that help is readily available. Before carrying out any work near a pipeline, landowners, contractors and anyone managing land should contact the pipeline operator. BPA can provide free advice, identify the location of pipelines, explain safe working requirements and, where necessary, arrange supervision to ensure work is completed safely.
UKOPA’s report also highlights the positive impact that awareness campaigns can have. Fencing-related infringements reduced following targeted safety initiatives and guidance, demonstrating that greater awareness and communication can significantly reduce risks.
At BPA, we are committed to working closely with landowners, farmers, tenants and contractors to promote safe working practices. By planning ahead, checking for buried infrastructure and speaking to the pipeline operator before work starts, everyone can play a role in protecting themselves, their colleagues and the UK’s vital pipeline network.
If you’re planning work near a pipeline, don’t take chances. Contact BPA’s dedicated Lands Team before you begin and make sure you know what’s below.
