In this episode of the Failure Files series, Pipeline Things tackles one of the most persistent and arguably preventable causes of pipeline failure in North America: third-party damage.

Rhett and Christopher walk through four real-world incidents, ranging from farmland to construction sites, where pipelines were struck. In some of these cases, lives were lost, all because no one called 811, or location information was ignored. From Brandon, MN to Dixon, IL, these stories reveal a pattern of missed warning signs, incomplete communication, and public awareness efforts that failed to translate into action.

This episode breaks down the responsibility on both sides of the fence and how even well-intentioned outreach can fall short without boots-on-the-ground follow-through.

Highlights:

• Why do over 160,000 third-party damages still happen each year, despite widespread awareness campaigns?
• A bulldozer strike in Georgia that turned deadly for a contractor’s family
• The repeat offender: a pipeline in Kansas hit multiple times by the same excavation crew
• How Kinder Morgan’s years of landowner outreach still couldn’t prevent a fatal accident
• What does DIRT data tell us about who’s not calling 811, and why?
• The limitations of signs, mailers, and brochures when human behavior doesn’t change
• What can pipeline professionals do to prevent future third party damage incidents?

“Three Seconds Later” (Dixon Incident Video): https://youtu.be/Ejxvrnfk2uE

Connect:  

Rhett Dotson  

Christopher De Leon  

D2 Integrity  

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Pipeline Things is presented by D2 Integrity and produced by FORME Marketing.   

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