Pipelines are the safest most reliable and efficient manner of transporting crude oil and other liquid petroleum products. Each year, billions of gallons of petroleum are transported thousands of miles quietly from production fields to refineries and on to airports, factories and distribution centers in communities throughout the country. Pipeline companies take active steps to ensure that health, safety, security and environmental concerns are addressed throughout the planning, construction, and operational phases of pipeline operations.

Pipeline companies are responsible for the safety of operations. In addition, federal and state pipeline inspectors evaluate whether operators are being diligent in meeting regulatory requirements, conducting proper inspections, and making necessary repairs. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS) oversees and regulates pipeline system operations from the design stage of a project to construction, maintenance and operations. Pipeline system operations are also subject to local, state and federal environmental and safety standards and regulations.

In addition to overseeing the safe operations of the pipeline, companies are also dedicated to making sure that employees have a safe workplace and the training and tools to do their jobs. To learn more about the extensive measures pipeline companies take to protect facilities, the public and the environment explore this section of the website.