homeWelcome, sign in or click here to subscribe.login
     


 

 

Construction


Subscriber content preview

February 16, 2011

Pipeline explosions highlight industry's lax rules

  • One report says it would cost more than $300 million to install automatic shut-off valves across the nation's 300,000-mile gas transmission system.
    • By GARANCE BURKE
    Associated Press

    SAN BRUNO, Calif. — First, the pipeline exploded. Then the flames, like a blowtorch, set the neighborhood overlooking San Francisco Bay ablaze.

    Flaming chunks of asphalt hurled into the air from the blast blew through the roof at Bill Magoolaghan's house. As he watched from a nearby hillside in San Bruno, one question came to his mind: Why can't someone stop the tower of fire?


     
    . . .


    To read this story in full login or purchase a subscription.



    
    Email or user name:
    Password:
     
    Forgot password? Click here.