Damage due to drainage problems, environmental disasters and unexpected changes to depth of cover are the highest-risk activities for pipelines. The heavy equipment and depths involved can put you and the pipeline in imminent danger.
Water is a constant issue for farmers and excavators. Whether too much or too little, it needs to be managed, especially when your crop or livelihood is at stake.
This means undertaking some of the highest risk activities for pipelines, by installing things like drain tile, irrigation lines, drainage trenches and more. These activities involve digging deep with heavy equipment that can easily damage a pipeline.
That’s why it is crucial that you contact your local One-Call service before doing any drainage or trenching activities near a pipeline right-of-way. You can reach them by using www.Call811.com in the United States, or www.ClickBeforeYouDig.com in Canada.
Even if you see the pipeline markers, they don’t always indicate the exact location or depth of the pipeline, and the line may not travel in a straight path.
Watch the video to see how one family narrowly missed a serious incident when installing drain tile on their farm.
Many people have assumptions about pipelines, like how deep they are buried and how to know where they are located. But the truth is, depth and location can vary depending on factors like geological formations, bodies of water, environmental conditions and other factors.
Here are just a few examples of when a pipeline may not be where you expect it, causing you to strike it even during a seemingly harmless, shallow activity:
In Canada, visit www.clickbeforeyoudig.com.
In the United States, dial 811 or visit www.Call811.com.
If you spot any major changes on a pipeline right-of-way or see any exposed pipe, contact South Bow’s emergency number at 1-866-920-0007 to report it.
If you need assistance using the portal or understanding the information required, please reach out to our Crossings team at 1-888-229-6788 or at crossings@southbow.com.
What if I already have a landowner agreement?
If the work is not included in the existing agreement, you would need a new request or agreement in place before starting work.
What if I already know where the pipeline is?
Even if the line is marked, a representative must be present to accurately read the depth and to ensure South Bow processes are followed.
I’ve done similar work in the area, why do I need a new approval?
Pipeline depth and route can vary, or the depth of cover may have changed due to erosion or other factors. Each project needs a new approval.
Did you know that in most provinces and states, it is a legal requirement to contact your local One-Call service before digging or excavation?
South Bow is obligated to report unauthorized activity to the regulators, who may investigate and determine potential fines or penalties.
Consequences of unsafe digging may include:
Although a pipeline leak is rare, it is important to know how to recognize the signs. Use your senses of smell, sight and hearing to detect a potential pipeline leak.
If you witness any of the signs listed above, or any other unusual sights, sounds or smells near a pipeline location, follow these steps immediately:
I know where the pipeline is, do I still need to make a One-Call?
You can never be sure where underground utilities are unless they have been marked by a professional. Utilities can shift from erosion or natural forces or additional utilities may exist in the right-of-way or nearby. Using the free One-Call service allows you to conduct your work safely.
How do I contact my local One-Call service?
Luckily there are resources to help you reach your local service easily. In Canada, you can visit www.ClickBeforeYouDig.com to find your local One-Call service, as well as other useful safe-digging rules and regulations in your province. In the U.S. you can dial 811 or visit www.call811.com to get in touch with your state’s provider.
When do I need to make a One-Call?
You need to make a locate request anytime you are disturbing the ground (with the exception of some pre-approved agricultural activities). This includes digging, piling material, paving or even driving equipment over a right-of-way. Any action that could impact something below the surface counts as ground disturbance.
What is a crossing agreement?
A crossing agreement is an agreement between you and the pipeline operator that allows you to conduct your work safely with the permission and understanding of the pipeline operator. Any changes to your work need to also be approved to ensure your safety.
How do I know if I need a crossing agreement?
If you plan to do any work directly on a right-of-way or access the right-of-way while conducting your work, there’s a good chance you need a crossing agreement. To find out for sure, you can either make a One-Call and wait for the pipeline operator to contact you, or you can contact the us directly through our crossings team at crossings@southbow.com.
What is the “right-of-way” or “prescribed area”?
The prescribed area is the term used in Canada for the right-of-way and describes the area that extends 30 metres on either side of the pipeline centerline. Ground disturbance within this area requires written consent. In the US, the size of the right-of-way can vary, but typically cover an area 50 feet wide where digging and other activities are restricted. Call 811 or visit call811.com to make certain and avoid costly mistakes.
