North Coast Gas Transmission (NCGT) is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety.  NCGT, in conjunction with Buckeye Pipeline, regularly perform pipeline patrols observing surface conditions and searching for leaks, construction activity, and other factors that could affect operations and safety.  Signs and line markers are used to indicate the approximate location of our buried pipelines.

PIPELINE MARKERS ARE IMPORTANT.  Our pipelines are marked with yellow markers, as shown below, at road crossing, railroad crossings, rivers, creeks, etc.  Markers display the product transported, the name of the pipeline operator, and a telephone number to reach the operator.  Federal law mandates the installation of pipeline markers and landowners should notify the operator if markers are damaged or accidently removed on their properties.  DO NOT REMOVE PIPELINE MARKERS.

RECOGNIZING A GAS LEAK. Leaks can occur or be caused by external forces between our periodic patrols and surveys.  Immediately report suspected leaks or any activity on or near our pipeline rights-of-way which might cause damage or put others at risk.

Natural gas is colorless and odorless unless treated with an odorant.  NCGT adds a harmless chemical to the natural gas stream to give it the distinctive odor of ‘rotten eggs’ to help detect the smallest amounts which might escape.  Below are significant signs of a leak on or near the pipeline rights-of-way:

1. “Rotten egg” odor or petroleum odor
2. A hissing sound or shrill blowing / roaring noise
3. Dirt or water being blown or thrown into the air
4. Bubbles appearing on the surface of water
5. Patches of brown vegetation in a green field
6. Dry spot on a moist field

WHEN YOU SUSPECT A GAS LEAK, CONTACT NCGT IMMEDIATELY.  Perform the following steps without delay:

1. Shut down and abandon any equipment being used on or near the right-of-way
2. Avoid open flame and other ignition sources, including motor vehicles
3. Evacuate the area
4. Do not attempt to extinguish a fully involved fire
5. Do not operate any pipeline valves
6. Remain upwind
7. Notify NCGT at 1-888-497-5665

For more information during business hours, please contact North Coast Gas Transmission at (614) 505-7210.