In a recent Letter to the Editor in Chester County’s Daily Local News, there was misinformation about our Mariner East Pipeline system. Let’s set the record straight. The following points refute exact wording from the Letter.
CLAIM: “The operator should pay for a total and complete hazard and environmental risk assessment.”
FACT: We have conducted all the required assessments of this pipeline in coordination with the appropriate regulatory bodies. Environmental assessments are part of our filings with the DEP and Army Corps of Engineers.
CLAIM: “The operator should pay for the development of early detection and warning systems.”
FACT: Way ahead of you here. We have long had warning and early detection systems in place that monitor any variances in pressure, temperature, flowrate, product type and more. If a variance is detected, our sophisticated Computational Pipeline Monitoring (CPM) system alerts trained personnel and computerized values are closed immediately.
CLAIM: “The operator should pay for public awareness programs.”
FACT: We have a robust Public Awareness Program that includes annual mailing of safety brochures to all parties along the pipeline route, using the same wording as PHMSA, explaining how to identify and react to a pipeline emergency. We follow the requirements of CFR 195.440 which states that all pipeline operators must develop and implement a written continuing public education program that follows the guidance provided in the American Petroleum Institute’s (API) Recommended Practice (RP) 1162. We are also a member of Pennsylvania 811 that publishes a version for kids.
CLAIM: “The operator should pay for evacuation plans.”
FACT: Each county’s emergency response department develops its own preparedness and evacuation plans. We have trained more than 2,000 first responders, offered annual training to civil authorities, and met with school officials to provide information and training. We ARE doing our part and go above and beyond federal requirements to ensure public safety. Recently at a House Committee hearing, David Padfield from the PA Emergency Management Agency said that the agency has reviewed every county’s emergency response plans to ensure they are adequate.
CLAIM: “The operator should pay for proper equipment and training for our first responders.”
FACT: Did you know we have donated more than $1 million to first responder departments across Pennsylvania to help provide equipment and training? We work and train with local first responders and county emergency services officials to ensure a coordinated response.
CLAIM: “Pipeline development degrades economic vitality.”
FACT: Completely false. Oil and gas has been one of the biggest contributors to Pennsylvania’s economy since the 1850’s. Pipelines mean well-paying jobs, home energy savings, and literally millions pouring back in to the local economy.
CLAIM: “The pipeline development costs the taxpayers money to prepare and mitigate.”
FACT: We pay for it all. Surveys, engineering, permits, construction, restoration, operation, and any necessary clean up and repairs.
