CPUC To Hold Workshop on Implementation of NTSB Safety Recommendation
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) will hold a virtual workshop to discuss the implementation of the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) Safety Recommendation for utility natural gas pipeline projects, facilities, structures, and infrastructure.
WHEN: January 13, 2022, 1-4 p.m.
WHERE: Remote access via webcast or phone only:
- Live webcast with English or Spanish captions: http://adminmonitor.com/ca/cpuc/workshop/20220113/
- Participants who choose to participate via webcast will have audio and video, but will not be able to make verbal comment. If you would like to make comments during the meeting, refer to the phone-in information below.
- For English or Spanish webcast captions, after clicking on the name of the workshop, click the green button below the video for captions. Then select captions by clicking on the white icon next to the word “live” at the bottom of the video.
- The webcast will also be recorded and archived for future viewing.
- Phone (English): 1-800-857-1917, passcode: 6032788#
- Participants will have audio (in English) and will be able to make comments or ask questions.
- Phone (Spanish): 1-800-857-1917, passcode: 3799627#
- Participants will have audio (in Spanish) and will be able to make comments or ask questions.
BACKGROUND
In response to the NTSB’s Merrimack Valley gas pipeline incident investigation, the NTSB’s Chair sent California Governor Gavin Newsom a Safety Recommendation P-19-016 letter on October 24, 2019, recommending that California remove exemptions to Professional Engineer approval and stamping for natural gas infrastructure projects so that all future natural gas infrastructure projects require licensed Professional Engineer approval and stamping. A copy of the NTSB Safety Recommendation is at: https://www.ntsb.gov/safety/safety-recs/recletters/P-19-014-018.pdf. CPUC staff analyzed Safety Recommendation P-19-016, its effects on gas utilities under CPUC jurisdiction, and its impact on public safety and have determined the recommendation, if adopted, may be beneficial to gas pipeline safety. The purpose of this workshop is to discuss current utility industry gas pipeline Professional Engineering stamp and approval practices and the CPUC’s options for implementation of the NTSB’s safety recommendation.
This is an informational workshop not associated with a proceeding. No decisions will be made. Staff of the CPUC’s Safety Policy Division will present background information and options for future implementation of the NTSB Safety Recommendation. Representatives from Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas), San Diego Gas & Electric Company (SDG&E), and Southwest Gas will provide an overview of current utility Professional Engineering work for natural gas projects, benefits and challenges of implementing the NTSB’s Safety Recommendation P-19-016, and utility recommendations. There will also be an opportunity for public comment.
For the agenda and more information, please visit www.cpuc.ca.gov/events-and-meetings/spd-workshop-01-13-2022.
In response to Governor Newsom’s directive concerning restrictions on public gatherings to protect customers and community members during COVID-19, this workshop will not have in-person attendance. Members of the public can view the workshop via the Internet or listen and make comment by toll-free phone line. Those who would like to make public comment must participate by phone.
While a quorum of Commissioners and/or their staff may attend, no official action will be taken on this matter.
If specialized accommodations are needed to attend, such as non-English or sign language interpreters, please contact the CPUC’s Public Advisor’s Office at public.advisor@cpuc.ca.gov or toll free at 866-849-8390 at least three business days in advance of the workshop.
The CPUC regulates services and utilities, protects consumers, safeguards the environment, and assures Californians’ access to safe and reliable utility infrastructure and services. For more information on the CPUC, please visit www.cpuc.ca.gov.
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