All Plains Emergency Response Plans (ERPs) and first responder activities for our regulated pipelines and facilities are coordinated through the overarching Emergency Management program.

We have federal-, state- and provincial-governed ERPs and have established site-specific plans for our areas of operation.

Emergency responses are guided by our ERPs which are required by regulation and include the following components:

  • Immediate actions to protect worker and public safety
  • Criteria for assessing emergency situations, including information about potential hazards
  • Procedures for mobilizing personnel and other responders
  • Information about stakeholders in order to immediately notify anyone who may be potentially affected by the incident
  • Methods for establishing communication and coordination between Plains and other responders

Our ERPs have established emergency planning zones (EPZ) or a calculated Worst Case Discharge (WCD). For Canadian Operations, an EPZ is determined by using approved methodology set out by the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER), the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP). Our risk management protocols include the engagement of key stakeholders to identify hazards, assess risks and develop controls to ensure protection of the public and the environment. For US Operations, the WCD is determined by our Integrity Risk program, Risk Intelligence Platform (RIPL) which uses the approved methodology set out by regulators, PHMSA & EPA.

How to Use the Emergency Response Plans for our Canadian Assets

Our emergency response plans are in line with the Canada Energy Regulator (CER) issued order MO-006-2016 which requires CER-regulated oil and gas pipeline companies to publish emergency response plans. The public’s desire to have more information about emergency management is in line with our commitment to clear communications and transparency to stakeholders. Please click here for more information regarding our ERPs for our Canadian assets.