Some cases call for extra vigilance

If you try to clear a blocked sewer line using mechanical tools or a high-pressure water jet, you could inadvertently damage a natural gas line. 
This could cause a gas leak, creating a potentially dangerous situation.

Solutions

Énergir has implemented three solutions to the cross-bore problem: 

  • Inform, train and alert plumbers, drainage companies and municipalities about the possibility of this situation on the natural gas network;
  • Implement a program to identify and correct cross bores on the network;
  • Improve installation methods and prevention techniques for drilling installations before beginning the work. This may involve an inspection of sanitary and storm water sewers by camera or a verification by excavation.
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Important safety precautions

Before you start work on unblocking a sewer service line, certain safety measures must be followed to prevent any risks or dangers.

  • Contact Info-Excavation at 1 800 663-9228 and select the emergency requests option.
  • If Info-Excavation confirms that there is no interference between the natural gas and sewer service lines, you will be given verbal authorization and a file number indicating you can proceed.
  • If there are natural gas lines, a crew will be sent to the site to locate the natural gas and the sewer service lines.
  • If a natural gas line does interfere with the blocked sewer service line, the situation will be corrected immediately and you will be issued a document, allowing you to proceed with the work. (Note that Énergir will assume the costs of the work and wait time.)
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Prevention basics

While natural gas is one of the safest and cleanest energy sources, it is nevertheless important to follow the basic rules of prevention, maintenance and installation for natural gas equipment.

Learn more
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In case of emergency, call 9-1-1.If service is not available in your region, call 1 800 361-8003.