Operator compliance with state and federal pipeline safety regulations is monitored through a comprehensive inspection and enforcement program. The program is comprised of field inspections of operations, maintenance, and construction activities; programmatic inspections of operator procedures, processes, and records; incident investigations and corrective actions; and through direct dialogue with operator management. The Minnesota Office of Pipeline Safety (OPS) works in partnership with the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to assure pipeline operators are meeting requirements for safe, reliable, and environmentally sound operation of their facilities. 

The summary of probable violations discovered and compliance actions taken by OPS as a result of these activities can be found on the State Enforcement Program page. These data are reported annually as part of the state's annual pipeline safety program certification or agreement to PHMSA.