Increased Monitoring of Pipeline and Oil and Gas Infrastructure
We are aware of the release on April 21, 2023, of the movie How to Blow Up a Pipeline. Based on the book of the same name, the film promotes taking violent action against oil and gas infrastructure, particularly pipelines.
The release of this movie should not be taken lightly. Provincial and federal agencies across North America are preparing for scenarios where activists, inspired by the film, may turn to sabotage to get their message across, putting themselves, their communities, and industry in danger.
We wish to remind operators that they are required to have emergency response plans in place that guide their response to incidents presenting significant hazards to the public and the environment. Directive 071: Emergency Preparedness and Response sets out the requirements for emergency preparedness and response for sites regulated under the Oil and Gas Conservation Act, Pipeline Act, Oil Sands Conservation Act, and Geothermal Resource Development Act.
Operators and licensees should increase their level of awareness, review their security and emergency response protocols, and monitor this evolving situation. Furthermore, we recommend that operators conduct enhanced surveillance and monitoring of surface pipelines and verify that leak detection systems and emergency shutdown valves are functioning properly. Operators must promptly investigate leaks and report any suspicious activity to the RCMP for further investigation.
We have taken additional measures and are prepared to respond should the need arise.
Questions regarding this bulletin may be directed to our Customer Contact Centre by phone at 403-297-8311 (1-855-297-8311 toll free) or by email at @email.