Natural gas and biogas

Legislative requirements related to natural gas and processed biogas include a construction licence issued by Tukes, inspections by an inspection body and use of professional operators approved by Tukes.

The Finnish natural gas network consists of transmission, distribution and installation pipework as well as natural gas filling stations. Natural gas is also stored at several sites.

The same requirements that regulate the use of natural gas also apply to transmission, use and filling station operations of processed biogas.

Natural gas and processed biogas are flammable gases and they involve risk factors such as leaks, ignitions, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.

The transmission, distribution and use of natural gas and biogas have been regulated throughout the history of natural gas usage in Finland The operational safety of natural gas has remained high, and damage and accidents have been kept at a low level.

Legislation pertaining to natural gas

The Act on the Safe Handling and Storage of Dangerous Chemicals and Explosives 390/2005 (in Finnish) acts as the frame for legislation related to technical use and safety of natural gas.

The Natural Gas Decree 551/2009 (in Finnish) has been adopted under the above act. The Natural Gas Decree lays down all the basic requirements for construction, installation, inspection, use and operational supervision as well as measures to be taken in the event of damage or accident.