Public Awareness » Compliance Programs

New Initiative to Improve Pipeline Public Awareness Compliance

TESS Began Statewide Emergency Responder Training in 2005.

TESS will expand its Regulatory Services to include 75 training sessions for Emergency Responders and Excavators across the state. A web based documentation system provided by Celeritas Technologies is used to provide the necessary records for auditing. The Public Awareness Manager allows sponsoring companies to access their documentation from any internet accessible computer. It provides true database functions for sorting the information based on audience type such as excavators or public officials. The pricing for this additional service is a flat rate based on number of asset counties. This allows sponsoring companies to know the exact cost of the program before committing to participation.

If you would like more information on these services contact Jack Garrett at 817-431-6077 or Email: jackgarrett@digtess.org



Texas Excavation Safety System is taking another step to help pipeline companies with their compliance requirements. In 2003 TESS organized a service for pipeline companies required to perform public awareness mailings along their right-of-way. The project concept is to share the cost of data processing, postage and printing among as many pipeline companies as possible, thereby lowering the cost for each company. As more companies participate, the savings for each company will increase. In 2006 this program included 137 pipeline companies in 26 states. The program will expand to 30 states in 2007 with nearly 200 companies participating.

Each participating pipeline company will supply TESS with their facility locations. TESS will generate an address list for each company, based on their facility location plus the appropriate buffer (660 feet or any specific footage). When addresses appear on more than one company's list, the cost of the mailing is shared between the companies. For two operators sharing a right-of-way, the cost will be half of what it would be if each company mailed to the addresses individually. In areas with several operators the total cost may actually be lower for each company than the cost of postage would be alone. TESS will provide documentation of the mailing to each company as well as maintain web based documentation for the program.

TESS members and non-members can participate in this project. Operators have several options, from mailing along their entire system or to specific districts. This will allow operators to perform door-to-door awareness in areas where that is feasible. By participating in this joint venture, small operators will benefit from the purchasing power of all the participants. Distribution operators participate in the program as well as transmission and liquids operators. Surveys are conducted in conjunction with the mail out to meet the .measuring effectiveness. requirement of API RP 1162 and all material used is focus group tested before delivery to the appropriate audience.

The mailing provides clear, concise information in English and Spanish. A feedback form will be included for property owners and residents to respond to the information they receive. TESS will compile the feedback and supply it to all participants.

For further information, contact Jack Garrett, TESS Damage Prevention Director, at 817-431-6077.