Bill > S1969

This bill aims to improve gas worker field safety in the following ways: 1. It requires the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) to establish regulations for inspecting and reporting on gas pipelines, including service lines connected to inside meters, notifying occupants of the inspection process and any findings, and setting repair and replacement requirements when hazards are discovered. It also mandates the replacement of any gas service line over 30 years old concurrent with scheduled or unscheduled visits to the structure. 2. It establishes a uniform classification system for natural gas leaks, defining "Grade 1" leaks as those posing an immediate hazard, "Grade 2" leaks as non-hazardous but requiring scheduled repair, and "Grade 3" leaks as non-hazardous and expected to remain so. It sets specific timelines and requirements for the repair and reevaluation of these leak grades. 3. It requires gas companies to maintain accurate and up-to-date records of their infrastructure, including maps and data, and to report any disruptions in their ability to provide this information to their workforce and contractors. 4. It mandates that gas companies survey project areas for leaks, ensure critical valves are operational and accessible, and provide written confirmation of these actions to municipalities or the state before and after excavation or blasting work. 5. It directs the DPU to establish a certification program for contractors and their employees performing work on gas infrastructure, with requirements for gas companies to report on their use of outsourced contractors and their oversight of such work. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the safety of gas infrastructure and field operations through improved inspection, reporting, and contractor oversight.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S1969