Colonial Pipeline Currently Operating Normally as Additional Steps Ensure System Resiliency During Widespread Freeze

ALPHARETTA, GA (February 17, 2021) – Colonial Pipeline’s system continues to operate normally as proactive measures help to ensure continued safe and reliable operations during the sustained cold temperatures and winter weather bringing life-threatening conditions to a wide swath of the United States. The nation’s largest refined products pipeline made operational and scheduling adjustments as needed to ensure continuous delivery of critical heating and transportation fuels across its 5,500-miles system.

As of this morning, Wednesday, February 17, Colonial Pipeline is operating the system as scheduled. At this time, Colonial continues to anticipate normal operations going forward.

“Our thoughts are with our neighbors across the region as we continue to navigate this extreme weather event. We know that millions of Americans, along with our customers and other businesses, rely on our system for critical fuel supplies at times like these,” said Wes Dunbar, Colonial’s Vice President of Operations.

“The system remains operational and is capable of receiving product from facilities across the Gulf Coast,” said Dunbar. ​“It is our responsibility to be as prepared as possible for weather events through our continuous planning that prioritizes the safety of the public, our employees and contractors, and the reliable operation of our pipeline.” 

In conjunction with its weather preparedness and response plans, Colonial took numerous steps aimed at maintaining safe and reliable operations, including:

• Proactive and continuous communications with customers, suppliers and government agencies.
• Coordination on commercial power supply.
• Ensuring emergency response equipment is inventoried and in top working condition. 
• Placing additional equipment and supplies at appropriate facilities. 
• Minimizing travel by Colonial employees, including implementing remote work for non-operator personnel, and securing accommodations near facilities for operators.

Colonial Pipeline has an extensive emergency preparedness program in place as part of its ongoing business continuity program. In alignment with Colonial’s ​“Commitment to Excellence,” and Safety Management System, the company’s plans, training programs and equipment are continuously evaluated and improved. Colonial also conducts regular emergency preparedness exercises to ensure employees are trained to respond, while effectively collaborating with federal, state and local response agencies. 

About Colonial Pipeline: Colonial Pipeline Company, founded in 1962, connects refineries ­– primarily located in the Gulf Coast ­– with customers and markets throughout the Southern and Eastern United States through a pipeline system that spans more than 5,500 miles. The company delivers refined petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, home heating oil, and fuel for the U.S. military. Colonial is committed to safety and environmental stewardship across its operations. More information about Colonial is available at www.colpipe.com.

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Colonial Media Contact:
Kesley Tweed
[email protected]