The Transportation Safety Board of Canada says it has deployed a team of investigators to a northern Alberta pipeline site following a natural gas release.
The TSB said Friday morning a release and ignition of natural gas took place from a Nova Gas Transmission Limited pipeline near Fox Creek. It happened at about 4 a.m. Thursday in a very remote area about 80 kilometres west of Fox Creek, according to TC Energy.
The Canadian Energy Regulator said Thursday afternoon a fire was observed in the area but it was extinguished.
TC Energy said it activated its emergency management and response procedures after a natural gas release on its eight-inch Simonette Lateral natural gas pipeline on the Nova Gas Transmission Ltd. system.
“We have the pipeline isolated and are working with affected customers. There are no reported injuries to our workers or members of the public,” TC Energy said.
“TC Energy technical experts and emergency management personnel are actively responding and working closely with federal and local authorities to ensure an effective and coordinated response. Air monitoring has been established at the site for the ongoing safety of personnel and contractors accessing the area.”
The company said it notified regulatory agencies, local responders and nearby Indigenous communities, municipalities and industrial operators as a precaution.
“We continue to take steps to protect the safety of the public and our employees, and to minimize any impacts in the immediate area.”
Fox Creek is located about 250 kilometres northwest of Edmonton.