19.122.035 - Pipeline company duties after notice of excavation -- Examination -- Information of damage -- Notification of local first responders. - Washington Statutes

Pipeline company duties after notice of excavation — Examination — Information of damage — Notification of local first responders.

(1) After a pipeline company has been notified by an excavator pursuant to RCW 19.122.033 that excavation work will uncover any portion of the pipeline, the pipeline company shall ensure that the pipeline section in the vicinity of the excavation is examined for damage prior to being reburied.

     (2) Immediately upon receiving information of third-party damage to a hazardous liquid pipeline, the company that operates the pipeline shall terminate the flow of hazardous liquid in that pipeline until it has visually inspected the pipeline. After visual inspection, the operator of the hazardous liquid pipeline shall determine whether the damaged pipeline section should be replaced or repaired, or whether it is safe to resume pipeline operation. Immediately upon receiving information of third-party damage to a gas pipeline, the company that operates the pipeline shall conduct a visual inspection of the pipeline to determine whether the flow of gas through that pipeline should be terminated, and whether the damaged pipeline should be replaced or repaired. A record of the pipeline company's inspection report and test results shall be provided to the utilities and transportation commission consistent with reporting requirements under 49 C.F.R. 195 Subpart B.

     (3) Pipeline companies shall immediately notify local first responders and the department of any reportable release of a hazardous liquid from a pipeline. Pipeline companies shall immediately notify local first responders and the commission of any blowing gas leak from a gas pipeline that has ignited or represents a probable hazard to persons or property. Pipeline companies shall take all appropriate steps to ensure the public safety in the event of a release of hazardous liquid or gas under this subsection.

     (4) No damaged pipeline may be buried until it is repaired or relocated. The pipeline company shall arrange for repairs or relocation of a damaged pipeline as soon as is practical or may permit the excavator to do necessary repairs or relocation at a mutually acceptable price.

[2000 c 191 § 19.]

Notes: Intent -- Findings -- Conflict with federal requirements -- Short title -- Effective date -- 2000 c 191: See RCW 81.88.005 and 81.88.900 through 81.88.902.