Editor:
On behalf of Terasen Gas, I am writing in response to some of the concerns Ms. Kit Moffat has outlined in her Oct. 15 letter to the editor, "Opposed to the Neptune Connector." I would also like to share with your readers some information about the safety of our natural gas system, including the transmission pipeline on Neptune Road in Sechelt.
Safety is a top priority for Terasen Gas, and I would like to reassure the community that the Terasen Gas natural gas system has an excellent safety record. This is a direct result of our adherence to Canadian codes and safety standards and the diligence of our employees in carrying out our commitment to safety.
In an earlier letter to Ms. Moffat, I noted that the transmission pipeline on Neptune Road has been in service for less than 20 years and is inspected on a regular basis to prevent any potential risk to the pipeline, the community and our employees. We also take all prudent steps to ensure the surrounding right-of-way is well protected.
This 10-inch, high-strength steel pipeline operates at pressures that range from 1,200 to 2,100 pounds per square inch. The pipeline is installed at depths from three to six or more feet, and is deepest at road and creek crossings. Pressure and flows in our transmission pipelines and stations are continuously monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
As new works or projects are planned around our facilities or pipelines, we undergo a strict review and consultation process to ensure the ongoing compliance, safety and reliability of our natural gas system, and we regularly work with the B.C. Oil and Gas Commission and local officials, including the District of Sechelt.
Terasen Gas is extremely proud of our role as a safe and reliable energy provider in B.C., and I thank Ms. Moffat for her inquiries into the safety of our pipeline.
Carol Greaves, community relations manager, Vancouver Island, Terasen Gas
