Maintaining a Safe Natural Gas System

Maintaining a Safe Natural Gas System

At Corning Natural Gas Corporation, safety is our highest priority. We are committed to delivering reliable service through the continuous monitoring and maintenance of our natural gas infrastructure.

  • 24/7 Real-Time Pressure Monitoring: Corning utilizes a SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system to monitor system pressure around the clock, ensuring it remains within safe operating limits. Any planned activities that could significantly affect the flow of gas from gate stations to customer meters are coordinated and cleared through internal review. Pressure regulator stations and overpressure protection devices are routinely inspected and maintained throughout the system to ensure safe and reliable operation.
  • Leak Detection and Surveying: We conduct routine leak surveys of our distribution system using both ground patrols and advanced detection equipment-vehicle-mounted and handheld-designed to identify natural gas concentrations in the vicinity of mains and services.
  • Corrosion Control and Cathodic Protection: Our corrosion control teams regularly measure and verify the effectiveness of cathodic protection systems on steel pipelines. This process involves attaching sacrificial metals to steel mains and services, protecting them from corrosive elements in the surrounding soil.
  • Odorization for Leak Detection: Because natural gas is naturally odorless, Corning adds a chemical odorant called mercaptan, which produces the recognizable "rotten egg" smell. This allows leaks to be detected by scent, enhancing public safety.
  • Damage Prevention via UDIG NY: Corning is an active participant in the Dig Safely NY program, helping to identify nearby excavation activities and promote awareness of underground utility safety.
  • Pipeline Markers: Markers are placed at key locations-such as street intersections, rail crossings, and congested areas-to indicate the general presence of underground pipelines. However, they do not reveal depth or quantity of lines. Always contact 811 before digging-never rely on markers alone to locate underground utilities.
  • Pressure Testing of New Pipelines: Before new facilities are brought online, pipelines are filled with an inert gas and pressurized beyond normal operating levels to confirm structural integrity and ensure safe operation.