Enbridge Inc. will have to conduct hydrostatic testing on Line 9B to determine the pipeline’s safe operation, Canada’s National Energy Board (NEB) said June 18. NEB, an independent federal regulator, must approve testing results of three segments around Hilton, Ontario; between Kingston and Brockville, Ontario; and Mirabel, Quebec.

The pipeline in the heavily urban area is near waterways which would receive any released material, NEB said. Through MO-045-2015, NEB is requiring Enbridge to conduct biweekly ground patrols to inspect for pipeline leaks during the first two years of operations. The company must also conduct quarterly integrity testing for the first two years, and submit requested results to NEB. Enbridge must conduct an additional internal inspection in the first year of operation and submit results to NEB.

"With each project we regulate, and at each step of the process, public safety and the protection of the environment are our greatest priorities," said Peter Watson, chair and CEO of NEB. "The public dialogue surrounding this project reiterates the necessity for the NEB to deliver on those priorities. Our expectation of companies is zero incidents and an unwavering commitment to safety."