About the Piney Point Pipeline
The
pipeline is approximately 52 miles long and traverses three
Maryland counties-St, Mary's, Charles and Prince George's.
It is a thermally insulated run of pipe that is specially
designed for the transport of fuel oil used in electric
utility operating stations. Fuel oil is a thick, heavy
petroleum product that is heated prior to shipment to ensure
flow consistency.
Petroleum products play a
fundamental role in our everyday lives. Americans consume
more than 700 million gallons of petroleum products each
day. To meet both household and industrial use, pipelines
silently transport half of all the petroleum products
shipped domestically.
According to United States
Department of Transportation statistics, pipelines are the
safest method of transporting petroleum. Pipelines conti9nue
to operate safely for indefinite periods of time with proper
maintenance and protection by pipeline operators and the
public's cooperation.
GenOn (Formally MIRANT) owns
and operates the Piney Point pipeline. In addition to a
procedure of routine inspections, corrosion protection,
maintenance and testing programs, and employee training, we
have an advanced computer monitoring system installed to
continuously monitor the pipeline. This program exceeds
current DOT requirements. We're committed to the safe
operations of pipelines for the public and the environment.
Look for Pipeline Markers
As a property owner, you
may not be aware that a pipeline runs
through, or near your property. You can
check your property plat or title report for
pipeline easements. Easements are written
agreements between pipeline owners and
landowners that permit pipeline owners to
operate and maintain the pipeline through
the landowner's property.
Easements
give the pipeline operators the right to
access the pipeline area or "right-of-way".
The pipeline right-of-way must be kept clear
of any buildings, structures, or other
encroachments that might restrict access to
the pipeline. Rights-of-way easements
protect the public and the pipeline.
Since pipelines are often buried
underground, line markers are used to show
the approximate location at numerous points
along their routes, Markers are located at
public roads, rail and river crossings, and
at approximately one-half mile intervals
along the path of the pipeline. Markers will
list the product transported, the operators
name, and emergency numbers. Take the time
to familiarize yourself with the location of
any markers that might be in your
neighborhood.
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Call Miss Utility before you
DIG!
Excavation damage to
pipelines is the leading cause of pipeline
accidents. Markers do not reveal the exact
location or depth of the pipeline. Always
use the 800 number listed before digging
anywhere. Excavators and homeowners should
call 811 or 1-800-257-7777 at least 48 hours
before starting any digging project.
Flagpoles, fences, landscaping, storage
buildings, foundations, swimming pools, deep
plowing, ground clearing and laying of
underground pipe or wiring are all examples
of projects that require notification. Let
the Piney Point operators assist you
in locating the pipeline before you begin
your project. |
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Educate
yourself
Learn the signs of a
potential pipeline problem:
 Unusual
odor in the area of the pipeline.
Dead
or discolored vegetation in an otherwise green
location (may indicate signs of a slow leak)
Liquid
petroleum product on the ground
If you suspect a problem
Leave
the area immediately
Avoid
direct contact with suspicious product
Avoid
creating sparks or heat that could cause
liquids/fumes to ignite
Turn
off any running machinery or vehicles
If you come
upon a suspicious area, do not drive into the
area. |
Report the problem by
calling:
1-866-645-7473
For a
life threating emergency
call
911
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