PUC Approves Settlement Addressing Safety Violations of Pennsylvania’s Underground Utility Line Protection Law After Harrisburg Gas Explosion
- Oak Tree Group
- Jan 22
- 3 min read
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has taken decisive action following a serious natural gas explosion in Harrisburg in December 2022. This incident, which caused extensive property damage and injuries, led to a thorough PUC investigation and enforcement case against Pronto Plumbing & Drain Inc. The recent approval of a settlement marks a critical step toward improving safety practices and preventing future accidents related to gas line excavation.
Background of the Harrisburg Gas Explosion
On December 13, 2022, a natural gas explosion destroyed a home at 3204 Crest Road in Harrisburg and damaged three neighboring residences. The explosion followed a gas leak caused by excavation work performed by Pronto Plumbing to repair a sewer line. During the excavation, the company struck and damaged a natural gas service line, which led to gas escaping and accumulating inside the residence. The gas later ignited, resulting in an explosion and fire that injured two people.
The incident triggered a PUC investigation by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement (I&E). The investigation found multiple safety violations related to the excavation work and handling of the gas line damage.
Key Safety Violations Identified of Pennsylvania’s Underground Utility Line Protection Law
The PUC investigation revealed several violations of Pennsylvania’s Underground Utility Line Protection Law, commonly known as the “One Call Law.” These safety violations included:
Failure to use prudent excavation techniques near underground utilities
Excavating in an unmarked area without exercising due care
Not immediately notifying the gas facility owner after damaging the gas line
Failing to properly renotify the Pennsylvania One Call System after the incident
These violations contributed directly to the gas leak and subsequent explosion. The One Call Law exists to prevent such accidents by requiring contractors to notify utility owners before digging and to follow strict safety protocols.
Details of the Settlement Approved by the PUC
The PUC voted unanimously (5-0) to approve a settlement between the Commission’s I&E Bureau and Pronto Plumbing. The settlement includes several important measures aimed at addressing the safety violations and preventing future incidents:
Monetary Penalty: Pronto Plumbing will pay a financial penalty as a consequence of the violations.
Mandatory Training: The company must provide enhanced training for its employees on excavation safety and compliance with the One Call Law.
Safety Reforms: Pronto Plumbing is required to implement new safety procedures and oversight to ensure strict adherence to excavation protocols.
The Commission adopted the Recommended Decision from Administrative Law Judge Charece Z. Collins, who found the settlement supported by substantial evidence and in the public interest.
What This Means for Gas Contractors and Gas System Operators
This case highlights the critical importance of following safety regulations and the One Call Law when working near underground gas lines. For gas contractors and small gas system operators, the Harrisburg explosion serves as a reminder to:
Always call the One Call system before excavation to identify underground utilities.
Use prudent excavation techniques, especially in unmarked or uncertain areas.
Immediately notify utility owners if any damage occurs to gas lines or other infrastructure.
Maintain clear communication and documentation with One Call services throughout the project.
Failing to follow these steps can lead to dangerous gas leaks, explosions, costly penalties, and harm to people and property.
Practical Steps to Avoid Safety Violations
Contractors can take several practical steps to reduce risks and comply with regulations:
Pre-Excavation Planning: Review site plans and utility maps carefully before digging.
Use of Detection Tools: Employ electronic locating devices to identify underground lines when markings are unclear.
Employee Training: Regularly train crews on excavation safety, emergency response, and One Call procedures.
Incident Reporting: Establish protocols for immediate reporting of any utility damage to the facility owner and One Call system.
Safety Audits: Conduct periodic audits of excavation practices to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.
By embedding these practices into daily operations, contractors can protect workers, residents, and infrastructure.
Moving Forward with Safety and Compliance
The PUC’s approval of this settlement sends a clear message that safety violations related to gas line excavation will be taken seriously. The Harrisburg explosion underscores the risks involved and the need for strict adherence to the One Call Law and other safety standards.
Gas contractors and small gas system operators should view this case as an opportunity to review their own practices and reinforce a culture of safety. Taking proactive steps now can prevent accidents, protect lives, and avoid costly enforcement actions.
The settlement also highlights the role of the PUC investigation in holding companies accountable and promoting safer utility operations across Pennsylvania.