{"operation":"document","citation":"PHMSA capuc2009ngprogramevaluation","title":"2009 CAPUC NG Program Evaluation - capuc2009ngprogramevaluation (California; Natural Gas State Program Evaluation)","source_type":"inspection","agency":"Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration","status":"historical","official":true,"published_on":"2009-01-01","effective_on":null,"summary":"2009 PHMSA natural gas program evaluation for California.","machine_formats":{"json":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-capuc-ng-program-evaluation-capuc2009ngprogramevaluation.json","markdown":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-capuc-ng-program-evaluation-capuc2009ngprogramevaluation.md"},"app_url":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-capuc-ng-program-evaluation-capuc2009ngprogramevaluation","source_url":"https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/docs/subdoc/321/capuc2009ngprogramevaluation.pdf","body":"1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington DC 20590 U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation for CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION Document Legend PART: O -- Representative Date and Title Information A -- General Program Qualifications B -- Inspections and Compliance - Procedures/Records/Performance C -- Interstate Agent States D -- Incident Investigations E -- Damage Prevention Initiatives F -- Field Inspection G -- PHMSA Initiatives - Strategic Plan H -- Miscellaneous I -- Program Initiatives DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 1\n\n2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation -- CY 2009 Natural Gas State Agency: California Rating: Agency Status: Date of Visit: 10/25/2010 - 10/29/2010 Agency Representative: Raffy Stepanian, Program Manager Sunil Shori, Utilities Engineer Michael Robertson, Gas Section (Los Angeles) Matthewson Epuna, Utilities Engineer PHMSA Representative: Glynn Blanton, DOT/PHMSA State Programs Tom Finch, DOT/PHMSA Western Region CATS Manager Commission Chairman to whom follow up letter is to be sent: Name/Title: Michael R. Peevey, President Agency: California Public Utilities Commissiion Address: 505 Van Ness Avenue City/State/Zip: San Francisco, California 94102-3298 60105(a): Yes 60106(a): No Interstate Agent: No INSTRUCTIONS: Complete this evaluation in accordance with the Procedures for Evaluating State Pipeline Safety Program. The evaluation should generally reflect state program performance during CY 2009 (not the status of performance at the time of the evaluation). All items for which criteria have not been established should be answered based on the PHMSA representative's judgment. A deficiency in any one part of a multiple part question should be scored as needs improvement. Determine the answer to the question then select the appropriate point value. If a state receives less then the maximum points, include a brief explanation in the space provided for general comments/regional observations. If a question is not applicable to a state, select NA. Please ensure all responses are COMPLETE and ACCURATE, and OBJECTIVELY reflect state program performance. Increasing emphasis is being placed on performance. This evaluation together with selected factors reported in the state's annual certification/agreement attachments provide the basis for determining the state's pipeline safety grant allocation. Field Inspection (PART F): The field inspection form used will allow different areas of emphasis to be considered for each question. Question 13 is provided for scoring field observation areas. In completing PART F, the PHMSA representative should include a written summary which thoroughly documents the inspection. Scoring Summary PARTS Possible Points Points Scored A General Program Qualifications 26 26 B Inspections and Compliance - Procedures/Records/Performance 25 25 C Interstate Agent States 0 0 D Incident Investigations 7 7 E Damage Prevention Initiatives 9 9 F Field Inspection 12 12 G PHMSA Initiatives - Strategic Plan 10 9.5 H Miscellaneous 3 3 I Program Initiatives 9 9 TOTALS 101 100.5 State Rating................................................................................................................................................... 99.5 DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 2\n\nPART A - General Program Qualifications Points(MAX) Score 8 8 1 Did the state submit complete and accurate information on the attachments to its most current 60105(a) Certification/60106 (a) Agreement? (NOTE: PHMSA Representative to verify certification/agreement attachments by reviewing appropriate state documentation. Score a deficiency in any one area as \"needs improvement\". Attachment numbers appear in parenthesis) Previous Question A.1, Items a-h worth 1 point each Yes = 8 No = 0 Needs Minor Improvement = 3-7 Needs Major Improvement = 2 a. State Jurisdiction and agent status over gas facilities (1) b. Total state inspection activity (2) c. Gas facilities subject to state safety jurisdiction (3) d. Gas pipeline incidents (4) e. State compliance actions (5) f. State record maintenance and reporting (6) g. State employees directly involved in the gas pipeline safety program (7) h. State compliance with Federal requirements (8) SLR Notes: Yes. Information reviewed in the 2010 Natural Gas Certification attachment 1 was found to lack information on current status or action being taken to obtain authority in note section. Attachments 2 & 3 are correct with inspection units and activities. All incident reports were submitted, information on cause codes were entered correctly. Compliance information on attachment 5 was correct with number of violations found and corrected. Training requirements for pipeline safety staff members meets the requirements of the guidelines. All federal regulations have been adopted in accordance with the three year requirement. We noted the maximum penalties amount is not the same as DOT. CA PUC may fine up to any level if it deems appropriate starting at $500/ day up to $20,000/day per violation. Each day the violation continues is considerate a separate and distinct violation. Master-meter and propane operators can be fined $1,000/day for each day a violation continues, but not to exceed $200,000 for a single violation or related series of violations. 2 Did the state have an adequate mechanism to receive operator reporting of incidents to ensure state compliance with 60105(a) Certification/60106(a) Agreement requirements (fatality, injury requiring hospitalization, property damage exceeding $50,000 - Mechanism should include receiving \"after hours\" reports)? (Chapter 6) Previous Question A.2 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes. This is address in the Utilities Safety and Reliability Branch (USRB) Incident investigation Procedure Manual on pages 5 & 6. 1 1 3 Has the state held a pipeline safety TQ seminar(s) in the last 3 years? (NOTE: Indicate date of last seminar or if 2 2 state requested seminar, but T&Q could not provide, indicate date of state request for seminar. Seminars must be held at least once every 3 calendar years.) (Chapter 8.5) Previous Question A.4 Yes = 2 No = 0 SLR Notes: from TQ staff members. Last seminar held on April 1-4, 2008 in Stockton and San Bernardino, CA. CA PUC plans to hold a TQ seminar in 2011 and have requested this seminar 4 Were pipeline safety program files well-organized and accessible?(NOTE: This also includes electronic files) (Chapter 5) Previous Question A.5 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes, a review of file folders and electronic data indicated the information on operators and other relative action by the PUC was up to date and well organized. All hard copy files of each inspection performed by staff members are maintained in the Northern (San Francisco) and Southern (Los Angles) offices in a security location. 5 Did state records and discussions with the state pipeline safety program manager indicate adequate knowledge of PHMSA program and regulations? (Chapter 4.1, Chapter 8.1) Previous Question A.6 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 2 2 SLR Notes: safety. Yes, Raffy Stepanian, Program Manager and Sunil Shori, Utilities Engineer have many years of experience in pipeline safety and understand the requirements in submitting grant application and year-end payment agreements to PHMSA. This represents over twenty years of experience in pipeline 6 Did the state respond in writing within 60 days to the requested items in the Chairman's letter following the Region's last program evaluation? (No response is necessary if no items are requested in letter and mark \"Yes\") (Chapter 8.1) Previous Question A.8 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation 1 1 California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 3\n\nNo response was required in letter to Chairman dated February 11, 2010. 7 What actions, if necessary, did the State initiate as a result of issues raised in the Chairperson's letter from the previous year? Did actions correct or address deficiencies from previous year's evaluation? (No response is necessary if no items are requested in letter and mark \"Yes\") (Chapter 8.1) Previous Question A.8/A.9 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: No response was required in letter to Chairman dated February 11, 2010. 1 1 Personnel and Qualifications 8 Has each inspector fulfilled the 3 year TQ training requirement? If No, has the state been granted a waiver regarding TQ courses by the Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety? (NOTE: If the State has new inspectors who have not attended all TQ courses, but are in a program which will achieve the completion of all applicable courses within 3 years of taking first course (5 years to sucessfully complete), or if a waiver has been granted by the applicable Region Director for the state, please answer yes.) (Chapter 4.4) Previous Question A.10 Yes = 3 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, all CA PUC pipeline safety engineers have completed the required training within the 3 year time period. 3 3 9 Brief Description of Non-TQ training Activities: Info Only = No Points For State Personnel: Staff member George Carter attended three ASME B31Q meetings being held in Dallas, TX on March 23, 2009, Denver Co on June 22, 2009 and Nashville, TN on October 19, 2009. For Operators: Two Mobil Home Park seminars were held in Fresno and San Diego, CA during calendar year 2009. The number of participates who attended the seminar in Fresno, CA was thirty-two and the number attended in San Diego was sixty-three. For Non-Operator Entities/Parties, Information Dissemination, Public Meetings: CA PUC staff attended several CGA Regional & USA North meetings on damage prevention. Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: 10 SLR Notes: Did the lead inspectors complete all required T&Q OQ courses and Computer Based Training (CBT) before conducting OQ Inspections? (Chapter 4.4.1) Previous Question A.12 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 Yes, all staff members have completed the OQ courses. 11 Did the lead inspectors complete all required TQ Integrity Management (IMP) Courses/Seminars and CBT before conducting IMP Inspections? (Chapter 4.4.1) Previous Question A.13 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, the following individuals have completed the IMP course: Sunil Shori, Mathewson Epuna, Dennis Lee and Kan Wai Tong. 1 1 12 Was the ratio acceptable of Total inspection Person-days to Total Person-days charged to the program by state inspectors? (Region Director may modify points for just cause) (Chapter 4.3) Previous Question B.12 Yes = 5 No = 0 A. Total Inspection Person Days (Attachment 2): 787.00 B. Total Inspection Person Days Charged to the Program (220 X Inspection Person Years) (Attachment 7): 220 X 9.16 = 2015.75 Ratio: A / B 787.00 / 2015.75 = 0.39 If Ratio >= 0.38 Then Points = 5, If Ratio < 0.38 Then Points = 0 Points = 5 DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation 5 5 California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 4\n\nSLR Notes: A. Total Inspection Person Days (Attachment 2) = 787 B. Total Inspection Person Days Charged to the program (220*Number of Inspection person years (Attachment 7) =2015.75 Formula: Ratio = A/B = 787/2015.75946 = 0.39 Rule:- (If Ratio >=.38 then points = 5 else Points = 0.) Thus Points = 5 Yes, The resulting ratio is 0.39 which exceeds the minimum ratio of 0.38, thus a five point score is awarded. 13 Have there been modifications or proposed changes to inspector-staffing levels? (If yes, describe) Previous Info Only Info Only Question B.13 Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: Yes, CA PUC has decided to split the Utilities Safety and Reliability Branch into two separate sections. One section will be the Gas Section and the other will be the Electric Section. The Gas Section will be responsible for performing natural gas safety inspection on those facilities under the CA PUC jurisdiction. Nine engineers will be assigned to the Gas Section and the remaining engineers will be working in the Electric Section. This change will simplify for the accounting, training and personnel who will be performing natural gas safety inspections. In June, 2010, the organization has also requested four new positions be appropriated and assigned to the Gas Section in their 2011-2012 financial budget request. 14 Part-A General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: Total points scored for this section: 26 Total possible points for this section: 26 DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 5\n\nPART B - Inspections and Compliance - Procedures/Records/ Performance Points(MAX) Score Inspection Procedures 1 Does the State have a written inspection plan to complete the following? (all types of operators including LNG) 6.5 6.5 (Chapter 5.1) Previous Question B.1 + Chapter 5 Changes + Incorporate LNG Yes = 6.5 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 50% Deduction a Standard Inspections (Including LNG) (Max points = 2) b IMP Inspections (Including DIMP) (Max points = .5) c OQ Inspections (Max points = .5) d Damage Prevention (Max points = .5) e On-Site Operator Training (Max points = .5) f Construction Inspections (Max points = .5) g Incident/Accident Investigations (Max points = 1) h Compliance Follow-up (Max points = 1) Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement SLR Notes: Yes, Item a; California Public Utilities Commission Gas Pipeline Safety Program General Order 112-E Gas safety audit and compliance inspections (GO112-E Procedures Manual), Section II & III pages 5- 7. Item b; GO112-E Procedures Manual) Section 2-a, page 5. Item c; Section 2-A, page 5. Item d; Section II & III pages 5-7. Item e; this is performed during the standard inspection, pages 5-7. Item f; Section 2-a, page 5. Item g; CA PUC Incident Investigation Procedure Manual covers all these areas. Item h; Section 5, page 13. 2 Did the written Procedures for selecting operators adequately address key concerns? (Chapter 5.1) Previous 2 2 Question B.2, items a-d are worth .5 point each Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 50% Deduction a Length of time since last inspection Yes No Needs Improvement b History of Operator/unit and/or location (including leakage , incident and compliance history) Yes No Needs Improvement c Type of activity being undertaken by operator (construction etc) Yes No Needs Improvement d For large operators, rotation of locations inspected Yes No Needs Improvement SLR Notes: 2, page 4-6. Yes, this information is contained in CA PUC GO112-E Procedures Manual , scheduling inspections, page 5 and Mobile Home Procedures Manual, section Inspection Performance 3 Did the state inspect all types of operators and inspection units in accordance with time intervals established in its written procedures? (Chapter 5.1) Previous Question B.3 Yes = 2 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, all systems were inspected in accordance with the CA PUC inspection requirements and their guidelines. 2 2 4 Did the state inspection form cover all applicable code requirements addressed on the Federal Inspection forms? (Chapter 5.1 (3)) Previous Question B.4 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, CA PUC uses the federal forms for their inspection program. 1 1 5 Did state complete all applicable portions of inspection forms? (Chapter 5.1 (3)) Previous Question B.5 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, a review of all inspection forms performed in the San Francisco office indicated all forms were complete. 1 1 6 Did the state initiate appropriate follow-up actions to Safety Related Condition Reports? (Chapter 6.3) Previous Question B.6 Yes = .5 No = 0 DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation .5 .5 California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 6\n\nSLR Notes: Yes, one safety related report was submitted and followed up on by staff members in 2009. The location of the safety related report was in the City of Woodland Hills, CA. The operator was Southern California Gas Company. 7 Did the state review operator procedures for determining if exposed cast iron pipe was examined for evidence .5 .5 of graphitization and if necessary remedial action was taken? (NTSB) Previous Question B.7 Yes = .5 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, only PG&E has cast iron pipe in the State of California. The total number of cast iron in the state is approximately 150 miles. CA PUC staff reviews PG&E company's procedures during their O&M audits. 8 Did the state review operator procedures for surveillance of cast iron pipelines, including appropriate action resulting from tracking circumferential cracking failures, study of leakage history, or other unusual operating maintenance condition? (Note: See GPTC Appendix G-18 for guidance) (NTSB) Previous Question B.8 Yes = .5 No = 0 .5 .5 SLR Notes: larger natural gas operators. Yes, this is accomplished during the Operations, Maintenance and Emergency Response (OM&E) audit. The O&M audit is performed annually and only for 9 Did the state review operator emergency response procedures for leaks caused by excavation damage near buildings and determine whether the procedures adequately address the possibility of multiple leaks and underground migration of gas into nearby buildings Refer to 4/12/01 letter from PHMSA in response to NTSB recommendation P-00-20 and P-00-21? (NTSB) Previous Question B.9 Yes = .5 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, this is reviewed and performed during the staff's Operations, Maintenance and Emergency Response (OM&E) audit. .5 .5 10 Did the state review operator records of previous accidents and failures including reported third party damage and leak response to ensure appropriate operator response as required by 192.617? (NTSB) Previous Question 1 1 B.10 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes. All California natural gas operators are required to report damages that occur on their systems to the CA PUC. This is accomplished by a dollar amount and a quarterly reporting requirement. This reporting is above the current incident reporting requirements under the pipeline safety regulations. See CA PUC General Order 112-E, Subpart B, Section 122, \"Gas Incident Reports\". Compliance - 60105(a) States 11 Did the state adequately document sufficient information on probable violations? (Chapter 5.2) Previous Question B.14 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Yes, a review of database and program files indicate all probable violations were sufficiently documented. 1 1 12 Does the state have written procedures to identify the steps to be taken from the discovery to the resolution of a 1 1 probable violation as specified in the \"Guidelines for State Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\"? (Chapter 5.1) Previous Question D(1).1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Yes, California Public Utilities Commission Gas Pipeline Safety Program General Order 112-E Gas safety audit and compliance inspections (GO112-E Procedures Manual), Section 4, page 12. 13 Does the state have written procedures to notify an operator when a noncompliance is identified as specified in the \"Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\"? (Chapter 5.1(4)) Previous Question D 1 1 (1).2 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Yes, California Public Utilities Commission Gas Pipeline Safety Program General Order 112-E Gas safety audit and compliance inspections (GO112-E Procedures Manual), Section 4, page 12. 14 Does the state have a written procedure for routinely reviewing the progress of compliance actions to prevent delays or breakdowns of the enforcement process, as required by the \"Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\"? (Chapter 5.1(5)) Previous Question D(1).3 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation 1 1 California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 7\n\nSLR Notes: Yes, California Public Utilities Commission Gas Pipeline Safety Program General Order 112-E Gas safety audit and compliance inspections (GO112-E Procedures Manual), Section 4 C, page 13. 15 Has the State issued compliance actions for all probable violations discovered? (Note : PHMSA representative 1 1 has discretion to delete question or adjust points, as appropriate, based on number of probable violations; any change requires written explanation) Previous Question D(1).4 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, California Public Utilities Commission Gas Pipeline Safety Program General Order 112-E Gas safety audit and compliance inspections (GO112-E Procedures Manual), Section 4, page 12. 16 Did the state follow its written procedures for reviewing compliance actions and follow-up to determine that 1 1 prompt corrective actions were taken by operators, within the time frames established by the procedures and compliance correspondence, as required by the \"Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\"? Previous Question D(1).5 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Yes, California Public Utilities Commission Gas Pipeline Safety Program General Order 112-E Gas safety audit and compliance inspections (GO112-E Procedures Manual), Section 4 C, page 13. 17 If compliance could not be established by other means, did state pipeline safety program staff request formal action, such as a \"Show Cause Hearing\" to correct pipeline safety violations? (check each states enforcement procedures) Previous Question D(1).6 No = 0 Yes = 1 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes, California Public Utilities Commission Gas Pipeline Safety Program General Order 112-E Gas safety audit and compliance inspections (GO112-E Procedures Manual), Section 5, page 13. 18 Did the state adequately document the resolution of probable violations? (Chapter 5.1 (6)) Previous Question 1 1 D(1).7 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Yes, a review in the electronic database indicated all probable violations are issued and tracked for compliance until the violations have been corrected. CA PUC allows the operators forty-five to ninety days to correct the violation. 19 Were compliance actions sent to a company officer? (manager or board member if municipal/government system) (Chapter 5.1(4)) Previous Question D(1).8 Yes = .5 No = 0 .5 .5 SLR Notes: Yes, a review of the electronic database and file folders for calendar year 2009 indicated all compliance action correspondence is being sent to the company officers. This procedure needs to be written and included in the GO112-E Procedures Manual. 20 Did the compliance proceedings give reasonable due process to all parties? (check each states enforcement procedures) Previous Question D(1).9 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Yes, GO112-E Procedures Manual, Section 4C, page 13. 1 1 Compliance - 60106(a) States 21 Did the state use the current federal inspection form(s)? Previous Question D(2).1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: N/A 1 NA 22 SLR Notes: N/A Are results adequately documented demonstrating inspection units were reviewed in accordance with state inspection plan? Previous Question D(2).2 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 8\n\n23 Were any probable violations identified by state referred to PHMSA for compliance? (NOTE: PHMSA representative has discretion to delete question or adjust points, as appropriate, based on number of probable violations; any change requires written explanation.) Previous Question D(2).3 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA SLR Notes: N/A 24 Did the state immediately report to PHMSA conditions which may pose an imminent safety hazard to the public or to the environment? Previous Question D(2).4 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA SLR Notes: N/A 25 Did the state give written notice to PHMSA within 60 days of all probable violations found? Previous Question D(2).5 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA SLR Notes: N/A 26 Did the state initially submit adequate documentation to support compliance action by PHMSA on probable violations? Previous Question D(2).6 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA SLR Notes: N/A 27 Part B: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: See question 19 pertaining to recommendations. Total points scored for this section: 25 Total possible points for this section: 25 DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 9\n\nPART C - Interstate Agent States Points(MAX) Score 1 Did the state use the current federal inspection form(s)? Previous Question D(3).1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: The Califorina Public Utilities Commission is not an Interstate Agent. 1 NA 2 Are results documented demonstrating inspection units were reviewed in accordance with \"PHMSA directed inspection plan\"? Previous Question D(3).2 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA SLR Notes: The Califorina Public Utilities Commission is not an Interstate Agent. 3 Did the state submit documentation of the inspections within 60 days as stated in its latest Interstate Agent Agreement form? Previous Question D(3).3 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: The Califorina Public Utilities Commission is not an Interstate Agent. 1 NA 4 Were any probable violations identified by state referred to PHMSA for compliance? (NOTE: PHMSA representative has discretion to delete question or adjust points, as appropriate, based on number of probable violations; any change requires written explanation.) Previous Question D(3).4 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: The Califorina Public Utilities Commission is not an Interstate Agent. 1 NA 5 Did the state immediately report to PHMSA conditions which may pose an imminent safety hazard to the public or to the environment? Previous Question D(3).5 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 NA SLR Notes: The Califorina Public Utilities Commission is not an Interstate Agent. 6 Did the state give written notice to PHMSA within 60 days of all probable violations found? Previous Question D(3).6 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: The Califorina Public Utilities Commission is not an Interstate Agent. 1 NA 7 Did the state initially submit documentation to support compliance action by PHMSA on probable violations? Previous Question D(3).7 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: 1 NA The Califorina Public Utilities Commission is not an Interstate Agent. 8 Part C: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: The Califorina Public Utilities Commission is not an Interstate Agent. Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 0 Total possible points for this section: 0 DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 10\n\nPART D - Incident Investigations Points(MAX) Score 1 Are state personnel following the procedures for Federal/State cooperation in case of an incident? (See Appendix in \"Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\") (Chapter 6.1) Previous Question E.1 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes. All procedures have been followed for Federal/State cooperation during all reportable incidents during calendar year 2009. This was confirmed by PHMSA Western Region Office. 2 Are state personnel familiar with the jurisdictional authority and Memorandum of Understanding between NTSB and PHMSA? (See Appendix in \"Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program\") (Chapter 6 ? Appendix D) Previous Question E.2 Yes = .5 No = 0 .5 .5 SLR Notes: Yes, Sunil Shori response, \"the memorandum of understanding is located in the Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety\". 3 Did the state keep adequate records of incident notifications received? Previous Question E.3 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes, CA PUC keeps telephonic incident reports in an electronic data base program located on the commission's computer system. All incident reports submitted in attachment 4 of the 2010 Certification document was checked and verified as complete and accurate. 4 If an onsite investigation of an incident was not made, did the state obtain sufficient information by other means to determine the facts and support the decision not to go on-site? Previous Question E.4 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Yes, all incidents reported by the operators are investigated and maintained in the CA PUC incident database. 1 1 5 Were investigations thorough and conclusions and recommendations documented in an acceptable manner? Previous Question E.5, comprehensive question worth 2 points total Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 a. Observations and Document Review 2 2 b. Contributing Factors c. Recommendations to prevent recurrences where appropriate Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement SLR Notes: manner. Yes, a review of five incident reports completed by CA PUC staff indicated the investigations were thorough and conclusions were made in an acceptable 6 Did the state initiate enforcement action for violations found during any incident investigation(s)? Previous Question E.6 Variation Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes, a review of the incident reports and letters indicated adequate enforcement action was taken when a violation was cited by CA PUC. 7 Did the state assist region office by taking appropriate follow-up actions related to the operator incident reports .5 0.5 to ensure accuracy and final report has been received by PHMSA? (validate annual report data from operators concerning incidents/accidents and investigate discrepancies) (Chapter 6) Previous Question E.7/E.8 Yes = .5 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes. California Public Utilities Commission has responded to the PHMSA Western Region within one to two days of an accident or information pertaining to incident reports or other follow-up information requested. 8 Part D: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Info Only Info Only California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 11\n\nTotal points scored for this section: 7 Total possible points for this section: 7 DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 12\n\nPART E - Damage Prevention Initiatives Points(MAX) Score 1 Has the state reviewed directional drilling/boring procedures of each pipeline operator or its contractor to determine if they include actions to protect their facilities from the dangers posed by drilling and other trench less technologies? Previous Question B.11 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 2 2 SLR Notes: Yes, this is checked during the Operations, Maintenance and Emergency Plan inspection. The CA PUC using PHMSA forms 1 & 2, Standard Inspection Plan of Gas Distribution and Gas Transmission Pipeline, check this item under section entitled Damage Prevention Program Procedures. 2 Did the state inspector check to assure the pipeline operator is following its written procedures pertaining to notification of excavation, marking, positive response and the availability and use of the one call system? New 2008 Yes = 2 No = 0 2 2 SLR Notes: Yes, this is checked during the standard inspection or incident investigations performed by CA PUC staff on all operators. Additionally, each member checks the operator's records on a sample basis to insure requests for locate were responded to correctly and timely. 3 Did the state encourage and promote the adoption of the Common Ground Alliance Best Practices document to 2 2 its regulated companies as a means of reducing damages to all underground facilities? Previous Question A.7 Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 SLR Notes: Yes, California Public Utilities Commission has been working with organizations in promoting best practices to adoption of the Common Ground Alliance Best Practices Version 7 document in areas to improve their state damage prevention. This action is conducted at California CGA Meetings and committee discussions. 4 Has the agency or another organization within the state collected data and evaluated trends on the number of pipeline damages per 1,000 locate requests? New 2008 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes, CA PUC has a requirement that all operators have to submit quarterly summary reports on the damages that occur on their systems. This information is posted in a CA PUC Damage Prevention database program. This information is reviewed quarterly and is being considered by the agency as a base for risk assessment of operators. 5 Did the state review operators' records of accidents and failures due to excavation damage to ensure causes of failure are addressed to minimize the possibility of recurrence as required by 192.617? Yes = 2 No = 0 2 2 SLR Notes: Yes, this is reviewed in the incident database program. 6 Part E: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 9 Total possible points for this section: 9 DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 13\n\nPART F - Field Inspection Points(MAX) Score 1 Operator, Inspector, Location, Date and PHMSA Representative Info Only = No Points Info Only Info Only Name of Operator Inspected: Redwood Mobile Estates Name of State Inspector(s) Observed: Dennis Lee, Utilities Engineer Location of Inspection: City of Redwood, California Date of Inspection: October 27, 2010 Name of PHMSA Representative: Glynn Blanton, PHMSA State Programs, Tom Finch, PHMSA Western Region SLR Notes: Sunil Shori Utilities Engineer and Tom Finch, PHMSA Western Region was present during the inspection visit. A standard inspection and records review was performed in the Redwood Mobile Estates office. 2 Was the operator or operator's representative notified and/or given the opportunity to be present during inspection? New 2008 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes, Redwood Mobile Estates was notified by letter from the California Public Utilities Commission about the scheduled inspection on October 18, 2010. 3 Did the inspector use an acceptable inspection form/checklist and was the form/checklist used as a guide for the inspection? (New regulations shall be incorporated) Previous Question F.2 Yes = 2 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, Dennis Lee used the California Public Utilities Commission Mobilehome Park Gas/Propane System Inspection Report form. 2 2 4 Did the inspector thoroughly document results of the inspection? Previous Question F.3 Yes = 2 No = 0 2 2 SLR Notes: Yes, Dennis Lee, Utilities Engineer was very thorough in the review of the operator's records and the performance of the operator's facilities. In this regard, he reviewed the operator's meter sets, valve locations, master meter regulator station, and obtained cathodic protection readings at the inlet and outlet side of the master meter station. Several areas of concerns were found and noted in the inspection form. 5 Did the inspector check to see if the operator had necessary equipment during inspection to conduct tasks viewed? (Maps, pyrometer, soap spray, CGI, etc.) New 2008 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, Dennis Lee requested at the start of the inspection review to see the operator's tools and equipment used to maintain the system. 1 1 6 What type of inspection(s) did the state inspector conduct during the field portion of the state evaluation? (i.e. Standard, Construction, IMP, etc) New 2008 Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: Master Meter Inspection was performed. Info Only Info Only 7 Did the inspector adequately review the following during the field portion of the state evaluation? (check all that apply on list) New 2008, comprehensive question worth 2 points total Yes = 2 No = 0 Needs Improvement = 1 a. Procedures b. Records c. Field Activities/Facilities 2 2 DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 14\n\nd. Other (Please Comment) SLR Notes: Yes. Dennis Lee reviewed the operator's procedures, records and conducted a field activity review of the entire system. 8 Did the inspector have adequate knowledge of the pipeline safety program and regulations? (Liaison will document reasons if unacceptable) Previous Question F.8 Yes = 2 No = 0 2 2 SLR Notes: Yes, Dennis Lee demonstrated an adequate knowledge of the pipeline safety regulations and the California Public Utilities Commission's rules. 9 Did the inspector conduct an exit interview? (If inspection is not totally complete the interview should be based on areas covered during time of field evaluation) Previous Question F.10 Yes = 1 No = 0 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes, an exit interview was performed by Dennis Lee with Maria Martinez, Park Manager, Redwood Mobile Estates after the inspection was completed. 10 During the exit interview, did the inspector identify probable violations found during the inspections? Previous 1 1 Question F.11 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, several probable violations were found, noted and discussed with the operator during the exit interview. The operator was provided a copy of the violations found and an action plan to be provided to the California Public Utilities Commission on steps that will be taken to correct the violations. 11 What did the inspector observe in the field? (Narrative description of field observations and how inspector Info Only Info Only performed) Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: Observed several meter sets that were not installed correctly, found numerous service lines that were not cathodically protected from corrosion, failure to install pipeline markers along the gas main, and failure to repair leaks found during the most recently performed leakage survey. 12 Best Practices to Share with Other States - (Field - could be from operator visited or state inspector practices) Info Only Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: No best practices were found or observed that could be shared with other states during the field inspection. Info Only 13 Field Observation Areas Observed (check all that apply) Info Only = No Points a. Abandonment b. Abnormal Operations c. Break-Out Tanks d. Compressor or Pump Stations e. Change in Class Location f. Casings g. Cathodic Protection h. Cast-iron Replacement i. Damage Prevention j. Deactivation k. Emergency Procedures l. Inspection of Right-of-Way m. Line Markers n. Liaison with Public Officials o. Leak Surveys p. MOP q. MAOP Info Only Info Only DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 15\n\nr. Moving Pipe s. New Construction t. Navigable Waterway Crossings u. Odorization v. Overpressure Safety Devices w. Plastic Pipe Installation x. Public Education y. Purging z. Prevention of Accidental Ignition A. Repairs B. Signs C. Tapping D. Valve Maintenance E. Vault Maintenance F. Welding G. OQ - Operator Qualification H. Compliance Follow-up I. Atmospheric Corrosion J. Other SLR Notes: This was a very thorough and detailed review of the operator's facilities. 14 Part F: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: This was a very thorough and detailed review of the operator's facilities. DUNS: 947393922 2009 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 12 Total possible points for this section: 12 California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 16\n\nPART G - PHMSA Initiatives - Strategic Pla","truncated":true,"body_characters":56395}