Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996

Pipeline carrying dangerous substances are identified by the Health and Safety Executive. There is a statutory duty on the council to prepare plans to deal with a major accident occurring from these. Picture showing pipelines on the surface of the ground

Major Accident Hazard Pipeline is a pipeline that transports a flammable liquid, chemical substance or gas. Pipelines are considered one of the safest modes of transport for conveying hazardous substances; the likelihood of an explosion in a natural gas pipeline in the UK is low. However, the loss of containment following a pipeline fracture or accidental release could have disastrous consequences, measures are therefore taken to reduce the risks they pose.

The Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996 ensure that the design, construction, installation, operation, maintenance, and decommissioning of pipelines is to a very high safety standard.

In the event of an accident regarding pipelines the following emergency action should be followed unless otherwise informed by a member of the emergency services:

Go indoors unless there is an obvious risk to the property, close doors and windows and shut down ventilation systems if it is safe to do so.

Stay indoors until you know more about the situation and the appropriate action you need to take to protect yourself further.

Tune in to a local radio station.

The procedure for the reporting of gas leaks by any member of the public who, if they should smell gas or if they suspect a gas leak, should immediately contact:

Single Gas Emergency Telephone Number – 0800 111 999 (24 hour)

For further information:

Office of Public Sector Information
Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996