PREVENTION

The U.S. oil and natural gas industry has made a commitment to meeting the nation's energy needs while maintaining safe and environmentally sound operations. This requires preparedness and continuous improvement in every phase of operations where oil is produced, transported, stored or marketed. Exploration and production facilities use advanced technologies, materials and practices, with multiple back-up safety systems. Pipelines employ computers, electromagnetic instruments, and ultrasonic devices to detect weak spots so they can be repaired before a leak develops. Marine terminals and vessels are being designed differently -- tankers, for example, are being built with double hulls. And storage tanks are constructed of special materials to withstand corrosion. Prevention, however, is not just the job of industry; consumers also play an important role in keeping oil and other fuels out of the environment by observing proper handling and disposal practices.