OREANDA-NEWS. The American Petroleum Institute welcomed the Senate passage of new pipeline safety legislation that will enhance industry’s goal of zero incidents.

“The oil and gas industry remains committed to continuous improvement in pipeline safety,” said API Executive Vice President Louis Finkel. “The industry is devoted to zero incidents. We continue to lead in protecting the public and the environment. API has released several new standards, and operators continue to spend billions of dollars every year to evaluate, inspect, and maintain pipelines.”

Natural gas and liquids interstate pipelines deliver 99.999 percent of product without incident, but pipeline operators recognize more can be done to ensure that the U.S. continues to have the safest, most robust pipeline network in the world.

“Pipelines continue to be one of the safest modes for transporting energy across the country. As domestic production grows, they will be the critical link to connect our abundant oil and natural gas resources to refineries, chemical plants, business and consumers.” said Finkel.

API thanked the Senate for approving a bill that will enhance our energy infrastructure so Americans can continue to enjoy reliable, affordable fuels.