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Bulletin 2007-39

November 9, 2007

Fencing and Security Requirements for Oil and Gas Facilities

Licensees are advised that the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board (EUB) will be reviewing the fencing and security requirements for oil and gas facilities. The EUB is of the view that these requirements are not as comprehensive as they should be. The intent of this review is to focus on preventing incidents of vandalism, which could have an impact on public safety or the environment.

The EUB will be pursuing a two-pronged approach:

• If a facility is currently required to have a fence with locked gates (while the site is unattended), EUB inspection staff will be enforcing these requirements. (If fences and gates have been installed at facilities that are not subject to these requirements, operators are encouraged to ensure that those gates are locked when the facilities are unattended.)
  
• The EUB will consult with industry associations to assess the adequacy of existing fencing and security requirements for oil and gas facilities and, if appropriate, effect changes that minimize risks to public safety and the environment. The nature of production, type, and location of facilities; operating practices; and arrangements with landowners will be considered when assessing the risks and determining risk management requirements.

The EUB also recommends that licensees display signs limiting access to authorized personnel only.

<original signed by>

William A. Tilleman, Q.C., J.S.D.
Chairman