Learn how to recognize potential natural gas leaks and how to respond to them with Grove Municipal Services Authority's brochure."

Outside Pages of the Scratch 'n Sniff Brochure
(click on the image for a larger version)

Inside Page of the Scratch 'n Sniff Brochure
(click on the image for a larger version)

Pipelines are tools for moving, or transporting, the natural gas and hazardous liquids that America depends on for everyday activities such as cooking, air travel, and heating homes and businesses. PHMSA issues regulations to maintain the safety of these pipelines and pipeline facilities.

There are 2.6 million miles of pipelines in the United States of America. Over 97 percent of the nation's transportation energy needs are met by petroleum products, and 64 percent of these products are moved through America's pipelines.

Figure 1.
Natural Gas Pipeline Systems:
From the Wellhead to the Consumer.
[large view]

Figure 2:
Petroleum Pipeline Systems: From the Wellhead to the End User.
[large view]

A Hazardous Material is any substance or material that can cause a significant risk to human health, safety or the environment when it's transported, used incorrectly, or not properly stored or contained. PHMSA issues regulations to make sure that hazardous materials are transported safely. Hazardous materials are also referred to as hazmat.

Placards must be used in the transportation of hazardous materials.

Hazardous materials are vital to the economy, because we all depend on these materials to heat our homes, provide fuel for our transportation system, and deliver chemicals to enhance food production and drugs to diagnose and treat illnesses. Over 3.1 billion tons of hazardous materials are shipped annually, equaling 28 percent of all ton miles of annual freight.