Pipeline Safety

Plains All American is committed to public safety, protection of the environment and operation of our facilities in a prudent and safe manner.

Substantially all of our pipeline systems are controlled or monitored from one of two central control rooms with computer systems designed to continuously monitor real-time operational data, up to and including measurement of crude oil quantities injected into and delivered through the pipelines, product flow rates and pressure and temperature variations. This monitoring and measurement technology allows us to efficiently batch differing crude oil types with varying characteristics throughout the pipeline systems.

Our systems are designed to enhance leak detection capabilities, sound automatic alarms in the event of operational conditions outside of pre-established parameters and provide for remote-controlled shut-down of pump stations on the pipeline systems.

Pump stations, storage facilities and meter measurement points along the pipeline systems are linked by telephone, microwave, satellite or radio communication systems for remote monitoring and/or control, which reduces our requirement for full-time personnel at most of these locations.

We perform scheduled maintenance on all of our pipeline systems and make repairs and replacements when necessary or appropriate. We attempt to control corrosion of the mainlines through the use of corrosion inhibiting chemicals injected into the crude stream, external coatings and cathodic protection systems. Maintenance facilities containing equipment for pipe repairs, spare parts and trained response personnel are strategically located along the pipelines and in concentrated operating areas.

We believe that all of our pipelines have been constructed and are maintained in all material respects in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations, standards prescribed by the American Petroleum Institute and accepted industry practice.