b'IAntprpoednudcitxio AnPipeline IntegrityThe industry uses a wide range of tools and technologies to maintain safe operations. In-line inspection tools known as smart pigs, hydrostatic test-ing, electro-magnetic testing, and other techniques are employed to identify defects that could threaten pipeline integrity. They visually inspect aboveg-round pipes and related equipment for corrosion and damage. Operator personnel walk, drive and fly over pipeline rights-of-way inspecting them for unauthorized activities, leaks, and other conditions that might endanger the pipeline or the public. Pipeline control center personnel continuously monitor pipeline operations and will initiate corrective actions if any prob-lems are identified.Emergencies Affecting PipelinesManytypesofemergencysituationscanaffectburiedpipelines.These include train derailments, floods, earthquakes, wildland fires, structure col-lapses, and other similar events where earth has been disturbed or will be moved as part of the response efforts. In these situations, pipeline compa-nies should be notified as soon as possible so they can monitor and verify the integrity of nearby pipelines. Incertainstates,respondersmaybeabletonotifypipelineoperatorsof theemergencybycalling811andinformingtheOneCallCenterofthe situation. If the call center procedures allow these types of notifications, all operators with buried facilities in the area will be notified and will respond. Coordinationwithpipelineoperatorsduringthesetypesofemergency situations will ensure the safety of the response team and the surrounding community.Excess Flow Valves (EFV) and Curb ValvesExcess Flow Valves will automatically restrict the flow of gas in service lines that have been cutordamaged.Theyarenowrequiredin new and replaced service lines that supply gas tosingle-familyresidences.Forlargercom-mercial and industrial users, gas distribution companies are required to install curb valves, manuallyoperatedshutoffvalvesnearthe service main, or Excess Flow Valves in all new or replaced service lines with meter capacities exceeding 1,000 standard cubic feet per hour. Policies regarding the operation of curb valves by response personnel should be coordinated with local gas companies so all parties have Excess Flow Valves (EFVs) restrict the flow of gas aclearunderstandingaboutwhatmightbeas an additional safety measure when services lines expected in an emergency. are cut or damaged.Source Xcel Energy31 2023 by Pipeline Association for Public Awareness'