Safety overview
Public safety is at the foundation of all we do. The safety of the public around our natural gas system influences every decision we make. We take a proactive approach to public safety by implementing safety measures before, during and after construction.
The West Metro Natural Gas Project has been designed to meet federal and state standards and safety requirements for installing, maintaining and operating natural gas infrastructure.
During construction and installation of the line, we protect your safety by:
- Implementing a corrosion prevention system designed to eliminate metal loss.
- Verification of pipe welds by an independent third party.
Once the line has been installed and prior to putting it into service, we take the following steps:
- Internally inspect the line.
- Performing internal pressure tests to verify the line’s integrity.
During the lifetime of the line, we:
- Regularly inspect the line.
- Conduct annual hazard patrols and leak surveys.
- Monitor (24/7) the line and other infrastructure through our staffed gas control center.
Staying safe around construction areas
We are committed to maintaining a safe working environment in your community. For your safety and the safety of our crews, remember these tips:
- Watch for construction crews and equipment.
- Do not enter construction areas.
- Obey signage and directions from crews.
- Reduce speeds while traveling.
- Observe parking restrictions.
- Remain flexible as work progresses and work areas change.
Learn to recognize a natural gas leak
If you ever suspect a natural gas leak, leave your home or business immediately. Once you are safely away, call 911, then Xcel Energy at 800-895-2999.
It is important to know how to recognize potentially dangerous natural gas leaks, so use your senses. Signs of a natural gas leak include:
- A “rotten egg” or sulfur-like odor, though it may smell differently to you.
- Hissing, whistling or roaring sounds outside near the natural gas line or inside near an appliance.
- Dirt spraying into the air or continuous bubbling in a pond or creek.
- Unexplained dead or dying vegetation.
For additional information on our commitment to safety, please visit our Public Safety page.
Call before you dig
A common cause of natural gas incidents is improper or unauthorized digging near underground natural gas lines. Before you dig, call 811 or visit colorado811.org to have buried lines marked.
Locating buried lines before digging prevents potentially dangerous natural gas conditions that result from damaging a buried line.