Plains Midstream Gets Approval to Restart Pipeline Operations

The Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB) has given conditional approval to Plains Midstream Canada to resume operations of the NPS 20 Rainbow Pipeline in Alberta, Canada.

The pipeline, which runs from Zama to Edmonton, ruptured in April 2011 and at least 28,000 barrels of crude spilled into a muskeg.

Plains Midstream must ensure that the pipeline can be safely operated within all regulatory requirements and implement weekly aerial surveillance of the pipeline to monitor geotechnical hazards.

The firm should also improve procedures and operations to ensure effective response in case of failures and implement a community consultation plan including meeting local stakeholders.

Plains will also submit monthly progress reports and attend monthly meetings with ERCB personnel to ensure effective implementation of conditions of approval and regulatory requirements.