Key Components of Leak Detection and Response Plans
Under California Senate Bill 1137, operators of oil and gas production wells and production facilities within a health protection zone will be required to submit a leak detection and response plan. In summary, there are four key components of the plan as follows:
- Installation of a continuously operating emission detection system to provide rapid detection of leaks
- An effective and reliable alarm system that alerts the operator of leaks when triggered
- A Response protocol that provides for the rapid identification and repair of leaks
- Provisions for notifying local communities when the leak source cannot be identified or fixed within 48 hours