PHMSA Fines Kinder Morgan $425,000 for New Jersey Pipeline Leak
The accident caused about 8,600 gallons of hazardous liquid to be released into the dike containment area around the company’s Perth Amboy Terminal.
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous
Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) recently announced a proposed $425,000 fine against Kinder Morgan Products Pipelines for alleged pipeline safety violations. The proposed fine follows a PHMSA investigation into Kinder Morgan’s October 2009 accident in Perth Amboy, N.J.
“We will hold pipeline operators accountable when they put the public or the
environment at risk," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “Pipeline
operators must be vigilant about following safety regulations to prevent accidents and keep our communities safe without disrupting energy supplies.”
As a result of PHMSA’s investigation, the agency found a total of seven probable
violations related to the accident. These violations include allegations that the company failed to have and follow written startup and shutdown procedures, and failed to have and use other measures to detect abnormal operating conditions. The accident caused about 8,600 gallons of hazardous liquid to be released into the dike containment area around the company’s Perth Amboy Terminal.
“PHMSA is committed to making sure operators do not delay in assessing the integrity of their pipeline systems,” said PHMSA Administrator Cynthia Quarterman. “Today’s action underscores the importance that all pipeline operators address threats their systems may pose to public safety and the environment.”