U.S. Department of Transportation
Office of Public Affairs
Washington, D.C.
 www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

PHMSA 01-06
March 17, 2006
Contact: James Wiggins 202-215-6615
Patricia Klinger 202-557-5641
Office: 202-366-4831

Statement from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration Regarding BP Exploration¿s Pipeline Leak

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is requiring BP Exploration to take a number of corrective actions prior to restarting a pipeline in Alaska.

These actions include:

• A complete internal and external line inspection;
• Successful repair of all defects to PHMSA¿s satisfaction; and
• Submission to PHMSA of comprehensive corrosion and cleaning management plans.

The company must meet these standard corrective actions before receiving approval from PHMSA to restart the line and must operate the line at reduced pressure until PHMSA has determined a higher operating pressure is warranted.

"This order will ensure that public safety and the environment are protected before this pipeline can be restarted," said PHMSA Acting Administrator, Brigham A. McCown.

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