Pipeline Safety
What We Do
Nebraska State Fire Marshal (NSFM), Fuels Division, Pipeline Safety Section inspects natural gas pipeline in accordance with 49 CFR Parts 191, 192, 193, 196, and 199, as well as Title 155, Chapter 1, Nebraska Administrative Code, and investigates leaks and incidents that occur on jurisdictional intrastate natural gas pipelines. Refer to PHMSA for information regarding interstate natural gas pipelines or all liquid gas piplelines.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is the agency charged with evaluating whether the proposed route should be approved. FERC also coordinates with a variety of local and state agencies; however, the State Fire Marshal Agency does not participate in permitting or route approval. For citing and routing, please visit the FERC website.
Inspection Program
NSFM Pipeline Safety Section uses a risk-based method for scheduling pipeline inspections. Inspections include an evaluation of the operator's policies, procedures, training, qualification records, and construction, along with field observation of practices and conditions.
Damage Prevention Program
The Nebraska Pipeline Safety Program works closely with all industry stakeholders to reduce third party damage to natural gas pipelines and helps to support the One Call Board of Directors and the Common Ground Nebraska organizations. At least 48 hours before excavating, any individual or company is required to contact the Nebraska 811 call center (dial 811, Online, or 800-331-5666) so that operators can be notified to mark facilities. If an accident occurs, the NSFM Pipeline Safety Section investigates to determine whether the intrastate gas operator's damage prevention program was followed and also works with stakeholders to help prevent recurrences. The Office of the Nebraska Attorney General has the authority to issue civil penalties for violations of Nebraska pipeline laws.
Nebraska Pipeline Operators Facts
- 31 pipeline operators in Nebraska
- Nearly 600,000 gas meters
- Over 12,600 miles of pipeline
- 400 inspection days annually
List of Nebraska pipeline operators and their contact information
Map of pipelines in your county
Other
The Pipeline Safety Section holds a seminar for pipeline operators each year to inform them of the latest in pipeline safety policies and operations. Periodically, representatives from the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) participate in the seminar. The Nebraska One Call Board has a strong outreach program with schools in the state in order to provide educational programs concerning the "Call Before You Dig" law. They also hold educational seminars on excavation damage prevention each year with gas operators and other interested parties.
