Crime & Safety

Washington Gas Settles After Chantilly Explosion

The company must pay a penalty and make safety improvements.

Washington Gas reached a settlement with the State Corporation Commission (SCC) which concludes an conducted after a on Dec. 19, 2010.

While Washington Gas did not admit or deny any safety violations, the investigation revealed nine alleged violations of the SCC’s gas pipeline safety standards.

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As part of the settlement, Washington Gas is required to pay the Commonwealth of Virginia $154,800 and make safety improvements, including replacing the copper service lines in the Brookfield neighborhood.

The replacement of the copper service lines must be completed by Nov. 30 of this year. The company must also test the lines as they are replaced and use the information to assess the safety of other service lines in its Virginia territories. Washington Gas is also required to report this information to the SCC and take appropriate actions based on the results.  

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 Washington Gas must also revise some of its procedures, including its emergency response procedures. All field employees and contractors will also be required to receive training on reporting abnormal operating conditions by July 31.

If Washington Gas doesn't comply with these terms, the company must pay another $219,700 to the Commonwealth of Virginia. 

 

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