Media contact: 360-664-1116 or media@utc.wa.gov
Docket number: PG-150120
Editor’s note: This news release reflects the position of the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission Pipeline Safety staff and NOT the views of the commissioners. It discusses a Pipeline Safety staff investigation that the commissioners have not yet reviewed. Any positions taken or comments offered by Pipeline Safety staff regarding this proceeding should be attributed clearly to Pipeline Safety staff and NOT to the UTC or the commissioners.
LACEY, Wash. – The Utilities and Transportation Commission Pipeline Safety staff has recommended a penalty of $5,668,595 against the Cascade Natural Gas Corporation after alleging 66 pipeline safety violations. These violations, identified during the investigation, resulted in the release of liquefied natural gas (LNG), leading to a fire that caused injuries and one fatality.
On Sept. 22, 2023, a Southern Pines Trucking driver hauling an LNG trailer pulled away from an active LNG transfer in Toppenish, releasing around 83 barrels of LNG. The escaping LNG formed a vapor cloud, which ignited upon contact with a nearby ignition source.
One contractor on-site sustained severe burns and passed away two days later despite receiving advanced medical care; the other contractor escaped unharmed. The truck driver was treated for burns from the fire and released from the hospital. The fire caused damage to equipment and vehicles but did not lead to further injuries or environmental harm.
The Pipeline Safety staff investigation found multiple violations of state and federal pipeline safety laws and regulations. They have requested that the commission impose penalties on Cascade. The commission, which is not obligated to follow the Pipeline Safety staff’s recommendation, will review the complaint and supporting evidence before making a final decision.
Kennewick-based Cascade Natural Gas Corporation serves more than 222,000 residential and business customers in 67 communities throughout Washington state, including Aberdeen, Bellingham, Bremerton, Kennewick, Longview, Moses Lake, Mount Vernon, Sunnyside, Walla Walla, Wenatchee, and Yakima.
Established by the Legislature in 1955, the UTC’s Pipeline Safety Program regulates the safety practices of 41 pipeline operators and conducts safety inspections on more than 47,000 miles of natural gas and hazardous-liquid pipelines in Washington. The UTC also regulates private, investor-owned natural gas, electric, water, and telecommunication utilities in the state. More information on the UTC Pipeline Safety Program can be found at www.utc.wa.gov.
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