New mutual emergency assistance agreement for Canadian pipeline industry

The Canadian Energy Pipeline Association (CEPA) has announced a mutual emergency assistance agreement between its member companies that will strengthen the existing emergency response process.
“This agreement will formalize an already existing practice whereby our member companies can share resources during an emergency,” said Brenda Kenny, president and CEO of the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association. “It will allow employees to get the job done by removing legal barriers that can sometimes cause delay.”

During an emergency situation, CEPA member companies can call upon each other to share additional human resources, equipment and tools that can increase their existing emergency response capabilities. This industry agreement will help facilitate an even quicker response to protecting people, the environment and property, if necessary, said CEPA.

Canadians have repeatedly indicated that when emergencies occur, they expect a rapid and complete emergency response.

“Our member companies are committed to zero incidents. However, in the off-chance that an incident does occur on any of our members’ pipeline systems, this agreement will enable our member companies to work quickly and collaboratively, without hesitation.” Kenny said. “This industry level agreement is a firm indication that the industry is listening and working collectively to meet the needs and expectations of Canadians.”

The agreement will be effective as of Jan. 1, 2014.

CEPA member companies include Access Pipeline, Alliance Pipeline, ATCO Pipelines, Enbridge Pipelines, Inter Pipeline, Kinder Morgan Canada, Pembina Pipeline Corporation, Plains Midstream Canada, Spectra Energy Transmission, TransCanada PipeLines, TransGas Limited and Trans-Northern Pipelines.