Safety Panel Calls for Temporary Shutdown of Michigan Twin Pipeline

Line 5 carries oil from Superior, Wisconsin, to refineries at Sarnia.

SEATTLE (Oil Monster): The Michigan Pipeline Safety Advisory Board has called for temporary shutdown of twin oil pipelines until the operator carries out necessary repair works to fill the gaps in protective coating. The panel expressed deep concerns on the serious impacts of a potential oil leak.

The state officials consider shutting down the pipeline for good. They called for more robust studies on alternatives to Line 5. State inspection has revealed coating gaps on the pipeline, which itself is a clear violation of the easement. Environmentalist groups expressed concerns over the gaps found in its exterior layer of protective enamel coating. The officials demanded temporary shutdown until the coating issues are fixed forever.

Board member Jennifer McKay expressed the hope that due consideration is given to the resolution by the Governor. Members also highlighted that the governor had struck the deal with the Canadian firm without considering their input.

Meantime, the Canadian firm Enbridge Inc., which operates the twin pipeline, stated that Line 5 is safe. The recent pressure tests carried out in summer have confirmed that the line is still in good condition, said Ryan Duffy, company spokesperson. At the same time, he stated that the company appreciates the concerns expressed by some state officials and will do everything to restore its faith. The company is currently evaluating possible measures, added Duffy.

Line 5 carries oil from Superior, Wisconsin, to refineries at Sarnia. High winds and waves had led to temporary shutdown of the underwater pipeline last week. As per agreement, the operations are to be stopped whenever waves exceed 2.4 metres for longer than one hour. Last wek, waves had exceeded 2.7 metres.