The Utilities' Gas Division is required by the Pipeline & Hazardous Material Safety Administration to track all system failures that result in the release of natural gas. The majority of system failures in the City of Charlottesville are cased by 3rd party excavators working around our gas infrastructure. Although damage to gas infrastructure cannot be completely avoided, the City continues to keep the number of events to a minimum even while the City is consistently expanding and under development. 

By tracking our system failures we are able to compare the safety and reliability of our natural gas pipeline system to other gas operators, as well as compile critical data that is used to evaluate in-house policies, procedures, and safety measures. Utilizing this data allows the Department of Utilities to identify weaknesses and implement solutions for a greater quality service, and has lead to the development of a state recognized Public Awareness Program that has played a critical role in the reduction of system failure events.