Identifying a Leak

Detecting a pipeline leak

Pipeline leaks are rare but it’s important for you to know how to recognize the signs of a leak. In most cases you may see, hear or smell the leak.

You may see:

Water bubbling in creeks, ponds and rivers
Amber or black coloured liquid
A rainbow sheen on the surface of water
Dead or dying vegetation on or near a pipeline ROW
Stained or melted snow or ice on or near the ROW

You may hear:

A hissing or roaring sound – oil and gas travel through the pipeline under pressure
Flowing liquid sound as pressure is released

You may smell:

Tar, oil, rotten egg, or skunk odour

What to do if a leak occurs

Leave the area immediately in an upwind direction and warn others to stay away
Do not light a match, start an engine, use a telephone or cell phone or turn on/off any electrical appliances, and avoid potential ignition sources which may cause an explosion or fire
Do not drive into an area where you suspect a leak or vapor cloud, and do not touch or operate pipeline valves
Avoid making contact with escaping liquids or vapors as potential hazards
Call ‘911’ or your local emergency services number from a safe location
Contact the regulatory agency by telephone

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