D O G S C O M P L E M E N T P I P E L I N E D E T E C T I O N SYST E M S
The Canadian Energy Pipeline Association (CEPA) and its members recognize the critical importance of leak detection and are continually seeking ways to improve their technology. “Companies have automatic leak detection alarm systems, automatic shut-off devices and devices that monitor the internal condition of the pipe,” says CEPA spokesperson Leanne Madder. “The use of leak detection dogs is a unique form of monitoring that complements an operator’s existing leak detection system.” Phil Graham was a trainer and instructor at the RCMP Police Dog Service Training Centre for six years and has been involved in operational searches for narcotics and explosives searching for more than 20 years. Today, he runs PVA Canine Services near Red Deer. The company’s clients are in the oil and gas industry, along with the hydro and mining sectors. Launched six years ago, PVA specializes in canine searches for illicit substances. Oil and gas companies have mixed views about canine detection for drugs, Graham says. Some companies don’t allow dogs on their work sites. Nonetheless, he is certain that he and his dogs are beneficial. “We know we are a deterrent against substance abuse when we visit a safety-sensitive worksite with our dogs,” he says. “Our dogs (sporting breeds such as labs and spaniels) are very good at identifying illicit items. I can say anecdotally that when we are consistently at a site, there is a reduction in events.” Roger Miller, security manager at North West Redwater Partnership Sturgeon Refinery, south of Redwater, Alta., says PVA Canine provides proactive safety and security. “We use their dogs inside the gates and it is a demonstration of our commitment to safety and our workforce.” C A N I N E S W O R K TO M A K E U S S A F E
Working in the oil and gas industry is part of the bigger picture in a modern working dog’s life. Police and border guards also use dogs to detect drugs. Some arson investigators count on dogs to find clues after fires. Search and rescue teams depend on dogs to detect people lost in natural disasters. Some canine companies, including PVA, have used their dogs to detect bedbugs. Bill Allen, founder of Out West Canine Consulting in Saskatchewan, has two pipeline-sniffing dogs: Kaaxan, a black lab, and Ruff, a chocolate lab. “Sometimes we’re the company’s first resort, sometimes we’re the last,” Allen says. In good years, Out West averages more than 25 jobs a year in oil and gas. “Most of our work is right after construction, if a pipeline fails the initial pressure test. So typically, we are pre-startup.” Dogs working in the oil and gas sector help companies meet safety standards and their owners collect a paycheque. What do the dogs get? Their reward is a bouncing ball, a training device that most dogs love.
Frontline Spring 2017
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