Minnesota Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS) officials inspect natural gas, propane and hazardous liquid pipelines, and investigates leaks and accidents. OPS also enforces the “Call Before You Dig” laws. 

Services Provided

OPS has three major program areas

• Inspection program: OPS routinely reviews pipeline operator procedures, training, and records. OPS also observes practices and conditions in the field to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Inspections are conducted to ensure pipeline systems are operated safely.
• Investigations: In the event of a pipeline incident, OPS conducts investigations to ensure the pipeline operator followed proper procedures, maintained regulatory compliance, and takes steps to prevent future recurrence.
• Damage prevention program: OPS is the education and enforcement authority for the "Call Before You Dig" law. The law requires any individual or company to call the Gopher State One Call Center before digging so that operators can be notified to mark underground utilities. Education activities throughout Minnesota aim to prevent excavation-related damage to pipelines and other underground facilities.