Mistakes over hazardous liquid pipe locations pose threat

[ensho]

http://www.contracostatimes.com/news/ci_18557362?source=rss


While the deadly San Bruno explosion highlighted the potential hazards of PG&E's natural gas lines, another enormous system of pipes -- carrying jet fuel and other hazardous liquids under Bay Area neighborhoods -- poses a danger that could be just as catastrophic.

That's because many people, including emergency responders, aren't sure where the private companies that own those pipes have buried them.

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Even local government officials don't always know the precise whereabouts of hazardous liquid pipelines. The California State Fire Marshal's Office fielded numerous calls from fire departments seeking to learn those locations after the Sept. 9 San Bruno natural gas disaster, which killed eight people and destroyed 38 homes.

-snip-

Hoping to relieve the confusion it recently discovered among fire officials, the state is considering setting up a website with pipeline-location details, said Bob Gorham, a division chief with the fire marshal. But, he said, access will be limited to emergency officials.
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there is a "national mapping system" but it is not too accurate as the info is supplied by the pipe laying company. and there is a "pipeline Safety Trust'. don't know if this is just Calif. or National.

[no_hypocrisy]

1. In my town, you must give three days notice to the town before you dig on your property.

It's the law.

[ensho]

2. sounds like a good law

nt