The safety of humans and the environment is a top priority for ARG. In our pipeline operations, the high requirements set by lawmakers and authorities are the essential criteria for the routing and safety of our pipelines. These requirements apply to every change, no matter how small.
Operations may only be launched on a pipeline after the technical facilities have been widely tested and checked. In Germany, the approval is granted by independent experts such as TÜV Rheinland or TÜV Nord.
A Control Room in the Netherlands staffed around the clock ensures safety in operation. From there, the pipeline is constantly monitored with the latest technology. In the unlikely event of a leakage, remote-controlled shut-off stations ensure only minimum quantities of ethylene can escape. The shut-off stations are located at intervals of 3 to 18 kilometres along the 495-kilometre route.
In addition to modern safety technology, periodic checks that include aerial surveys and on-site route inspections ensure trouble-free and safe operation. Possible external influences, such as construction projects near the pipeline, are detected early, and necessary safety measures are taken on the ground.
What’s more, the ARG pipeline is continuously monitored by a process control system. In second intervals, the relevant data of all connected organizations and the pressure and temperature changes at the approximately 90 remote controlled valve stations of the pipeline system are transferred to the control room and constantly evaluated by a leakage detection and positioning system. The central control room is always staffed with highly qualified staff that responds to changes in the operating conditions in the pipeline network with necessary measures. There is also a 24-hour readiness service available, which can perform any checks or action on the ground.