Call Before You Clear
Know the risk of potential cross-bores.
Cross-bores occur when natural gas lines are unintentionally installed through sewer and septic lines. This becomes hazardous when mechanical equipment is used by plumbers to clear sewer blockages. Equipment of this kind is capable of penetrating a natural gas line, causing a dangerous and unintended release of natural gas.
What does CenterPoint Energy do to reduce this hazard?
CenterPoint collaborates yearly with several natural gas utility companies in Minnesota to spread awareness about the danger of cross-bores. Plumbers intending to clear a blockage are instructed to call their local utility who will then determine if an in-sewer inspection is needed. Any costs associated with a sewer inspection are covered by the utility company. For more information visit CallBeforeYouClear.com.
Before construction on CenterPoint's natural gas infrastructure begins, a contractor will come on site to verify the location of sewer lines in relation to gas lines. This important safety measure adheres to mandates from the Minnesota Office of Pipeline Safety and reduces future cross-bores and unintended gas leaks. If you are unsure if a company has been authorized by CenterPoint to perform this work, ask technicians to see their CenterPoint Energy identification cards before allowing them on your property.
If you are a plumber or a sewer cleaning contractor, call 1-855-820-0127 before clearing a sewer line.
