State Pipeline Damage Prevention Program Grants

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) announced over $1.5 million in grants to 22 states to strengthen and support pipeline damage prevention programs. States will use the damage prevention grants to continue implementation of the nine elements of an effective damage prevention program, outlined in the Pipeline Inspection, Protection, Enforcement and Safety Act of 2006. Program elements include effective communications, partnerships, fair and consistent enforcement, training and technology.

Excavation damage is the number one cause of pipeline accidents resulting in fatality or injury. Since 2002, excavation damage resulted in over $190 million in property damage nationwide. Between 2002 and 2011, more than 28 % of all serious pipeline accidents were caused by excavation damage, resulting in 38 fatalities and 148 injuries.

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