ATTENTION—PIPELINE STAKEHOLDERS

The message below is being sent on behalf of Sonya T. Proctor, Assistant Administrator, Surface Operations, Transportation Security Administration and Alan K. Mayberry, Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety, Pipeline Hazardous Materials and Safety Administration, Department of Transportation.

UNCLASSIFIED

ATTENTION—PIPELINE STAKEHOLDERS

Protests continue across the United States.  At least 40 cities have imposed curfews and National Guard members have been activated in at least 23 states as well as Washington, DC.  While many protests have been peaceful, some involve violence and destruction of property in the wake of civil unrest.

Violent protests have potential to disrupt aspects of the oil and gas pipeline industry.  While TSA has no information regarding a specific, credible threat to pipeline infrastructure at this time as a result of civil unrest, stakeholders are being encouraged to take appropriate precautions and to consider the following:

• Review facility security plans and protocols with staff
• Take steps to make facilities less vulnerable to tampering or damage (e.g., reinforce locks or boots, install temporary barriers, etc.)
• Identify and ensure access to critical isolation valves in the proximity of protests and communicate this with local law enforcement
• Work with local law enforcement and emergency responders to be contacted as soon as possible if a specific location needs to be isolated
• Request escorts from law enforcement, as necessary, to ensure safety and security of pipeline operator personnel
• Reach out to Fusion Center representatives to ensure contact information is up to date and communication lines are open
• Promptly report pipeline related security incidents to the Transportation Security Operations Center (TSOC) by calling (866) 615-5150 or via email at: [email protected]; any reportable pipeline failures must be reported to the National Response Center (800) 424-8802
• Reiterate the importance of awareness and vigilance among pipeline personnel, especially those with work locations near impacted cities

For additional information or assistance with Law Enforcement and/or Fusion Center contact, pipeline operators may reach out to one of the Regional Pipeline Security Assessment Team (PSAT) personnel using the attached regional map and contact information provided below: