{"operation":"document","citation":"PHMSA capuc2010ngprogramevaluation","title":"2010 CAPUC NG Program Evaluation - capuc2010ngprogramevaluation (California; Natural Gas State Program Evaluation)","source_type":"inspection","agency":"Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration","status":"historical","official":true,"published_on":"2010-01-01","effective_on":null,"summary":"2010 PHMSA natural gas program evaluation for California.","machine_formats":{"json":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-capuc-ng-program-evaluation-capuc2010ngprogramevaluation.json","markdown":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-capuc-ng-program-evaluation-capuc2010ngprogramevaluation.md"},"app_url":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-state-evaluation-capuc-ng-program-evaluation-capuc2010ngprogramevaluation","source_url":"https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/docs/subdoc/326/capuc2010ngprogramevaluation.pdf","body":"1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington DC 20590 U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 2010 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 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 1\n\n2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation -- CY 2010 Natural Gas State Agency: California Rating: Agency Status: Date of Visit: 09/19/2011 - 09/23/2011 Agency Representative: Julie Halligan, Deputy Director Raffy Stepanian, Program Manager Michael Robertson, Supervisor Dennis Lee, Senior Utilities Engineer PHMSA Representative: Glynn Blanton, US DOT/PHMSA State Programs Don Martin, US DOT/PHMSA State Programs Commission Chairman to whom follow up letter is to be sent: Name/Title: Michael R. Peevey, President Agency: California Public Utilities Commission Address: 505 Van Ness Avenue City/State/Zip: San Francisco, CA 94102-3298 60105(a): Yes 60106(a): No Interstate Agent: Yes 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 2010 (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 15 B Inspections and Compliance - Procedures/Records/Performance 25 24.5 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 10 H Miscellaneous 3 3 I Program Initiatives 9 9 TOTALS 101 89.5 State Rating................................................................................................................................................... 88.6 DUNS: 947393922 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 2\n\nPART A - General Program Qualifications Points(MAX) Score 8 6 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: Attachment 1, Stats on Operators; the number of inspection units indicates 15 intrastate transmission and does not match the total number in attachment 3, Inspection Units for Operators. Therefore, this is an error in entry of data into FedStar and a loss of one point is charged for section c. Attachment 7, Staffing and TQ Training; information was recorded incorrectly pertainng to the successful completion of one Engineer in meeting the training requirements. Therefore, a loss of one point was charged in section g. We note the maximum penalties amount in section h is not the same as US DOT PHMSA. Additionally, the civil penalty amounts are different for gas and LPG operators. 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 addressed in the Utilities Safety and Reliability Branch (USRB) Incident Investigation Procedure Manual on pages 4 & 5. 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 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: Last seminar held in calendar year 2009. 2 2 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 pipeline safety data base programs and files indicated all information was well-organized and accessible. A random number of electronic inspection reports were reviewed by this writer. Information in the documents was found to be complete and accurate with items observed by the engineer during the inspection visits. 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: Yes, Raffy Stepanian has an excellent knowledge and understanding in meeting the federal guidelines for states participating in the pipeline safety program and submittal of the pipeline safety certification, grant application and year-end payment requests. 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 1 1 DUNS: 947393922 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 3\n\nYes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, Chairman Peevey response was received on February 25, 2011 to Zach Barrett, Director PHMSA State Programs. 7 What actions, if necessary, did the State initiate as a result of issues raised in the Chairperson's letter from the 1 1 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: Action was taken by the CPUC to address the deficiencies noted in the state evaluation. In Chairman Peevey's letter he stated, \"CPUC continues to work toward achieving complete oversight over all intrastate operators as it did when it established its Mobile home Park and Propane Gas Safety Programs.\" \"The CPUC shares your concern and as such has hired an additional four Utilities Engineers for its Program. Currently, the CPUC has 13 inspector positions dedicated to its Program.\" The CPUC is in the process of revising its General Order 112-E, Rules Governing Design, Construction, Testing, Operation and Maintenance of Gas Gathering, Transmission and Distribution Piping Systems. As part of the revision, the CPUC is exploring establishing an expedited enforcement process for issuing penalties to gas pipeline operators.\" Personnel and Qualifications 8 Has each inspector fulfilled the 3 year TQ training requirement? If No, has the state been granted a waiver 3 0 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: No. A review CA PUC individual transcripts on T&Q training requirements found one engineer has not fulfilled the 3 year training requirements. Therefore, no points were awarded for this question. 9 Brief Description of Non-TQ training Activities: Info Only = No Points For State Personnel: For Operators: For Non-Operator Entities/Parties, Information Dissemination, Public Meetings: Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: Due to the on-going San Bruno investigation by CA PUC staff members, they were unable to attend non-T&Q training activities in calendar year 2010. 10 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 SLR Notes: Yes, all engineers have completed the OQ training requirements before performing an inspection on a natural gas operator. This information was verified and checked in the T&Q database. 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 1 0 SLR Notes: No, a review of TQ data base indicated all engineers have not completed the required courses. Several individuals have not completed the WBT course, PL31C. Therefore, a loss of one point is charged for failure to complete within the required time schedule. 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): 736.00 B. Total Inspection Person Days Charged to the Program (220 X Inspection Person Years) (Attachment 7): 220 X 9.47 = 2084.50 DUNS: 947393922 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation 5 0 California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 4\n\nRatio: A / B 736.00 / 2084.50 = 0.35 If Ratio >= 0.38 Then Points = 5, If Ratio < 0.38 Then Points = 0 Points = 0 SLR Notes: A= Total Inspection Person Days (Attachment 2) = 736 B= Total Inspection Person Days Charged to the program (220*Number of Inspection person years (Attachment 7 shows 9.47) =2084.499 Formula: Ratio = A/B = 736/2084.49 = 0.35 Rule: (If Ratio >=.38 then points = 5 else Points = 0.) The resulting ratio is 0.35 which does not meet the minimum ratio of 0.38, thus no points are awarded. 13 Have there been modifications or proposed changes to inspector-staffing levels? (If yes, describe) Previous Question B.13 Info Only = No Points Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: Yes, three engineers were hired in 2010. The agency anticipates hiring four additonal engineers by the end of calendar year 2011. 14 Part-A General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: Loss of points occurred in questions A.1, A.8, A.11, and A.12. See each question for jusification of point deductions. Total point loss in section A is 11. Total points scored for this section: 15 Total possible points for this section: 26 DUNS: 947393922 2010 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 a & b & 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 2 2 SLR Notes: Yes, all systems were inspected in accordance with the CA PUC inspection requirements and their guidelines as established by the program manager. 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 all of their inspection performed by staff members. 1 1 5 Did state complete all applicable portions of inspection forms? (Chapter 5.1 (3)) Previous Question B.5 1 1 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: timely manner. Yes, a review of all inspection forms performed by Don Martin, PHMSA State Program in the Los Angeles office indicated all forms were completed in a 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 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation .5 .5 California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 6\n\nSLR Notes: Yes, two safety related conditions reports were reported and CA PUC performed the follow-up action. 7 Did the state review operator procedures for determining if exposed cast iron pipe was examined for evidence of graphitization and if necessary remedial action was taken? (NTSB) Previous Question B.7 Yes = .5 No = 0 .5 .5 SLR Notes: Yes, PG&E is the only operator that has cast iron pipe in the State of California. The total number of miles in the state is sixty-three. CA PUC staff continue to review 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 1 1 Question B.14 Yes = 1 No = 0 Needs Improvement = .5 SLR Notes: Yes, a random selection of the 2010 inspection reports and violations issued indicated the State agency was adequately documenting all information. They use the PHMSA inspection forms. 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 2010 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. The CA PUC data base also provides an opportunity to review the progress being made by the operators in correcting violations cited. 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 and 14. 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 thirty 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 0 SLR Notes: No, a review of the electronic database and file folders for calendar year 2010 indicated the compliance letters were not sent to the company officer. Letters were mailed to the Director of Engineering or Administrator of Compliance which are not an official officer of the company. Therefore, a loss of 0.5 point is assessed.. 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 addresses this item. 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: 1 NA 22 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 SLR Notes: DUNS: 947393922 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation 1 NA 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: 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: 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: 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: 27 Is the program manager familiar with state process for imposing civil penalties? Were civil penalties considered for repeat violations (with severity consideration) or violations resulting in incidents/accidents? (describe any actions taken) Info Only = No Points Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: Yes, the program manager is familiar with this process and has considered using civil penalty for repeat violations by the operator. 28 Part B: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: points. Loss of 0.5 points occurred in question B.19. See question and comment section for justification and reason for reduction. Total point loss in section B is 0.5 Total points scored for this section: 24.5 Total possible points for this section: 25 DUNS: 947393922 2010 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 1 NA SLR Notes: 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: 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 1 NA SLR Notes: 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 1 NA SLR Notes: 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: 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: 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 1 NA SLR Notes: 8 Part C: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 0 Total possible points for this section: 0 DUNS: 947393922 2010 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 2010. 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, they are familiar with the memorandum of understanding and item described in the Guidelines for States Participating in the Pipeline Safety Program. 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 2011 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 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes, all incidents reported by the operators are investigated. Information about the investigation is maintained in the CA PUC incident database. 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 SLR Notes: Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes No Needs Improvement Yes, a review of three incident reports in 2010; 790 Linda Vista Road, Riverside & Kirby Intersection and 9586 San Benito Avenue completed by CA PUC staff indicated the investigations were thorough and conclusions were made in an acceptable manner. 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 considered and 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. This was noted during the San Bruno, CA incident. 8 Part D: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: No loss of points occurred in Section D. DUNS: 947393922 2010 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 2010 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 inspections. 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. Also, 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, CA PUC has been working with organizations in promoting best practices to adoption of the Common Ground Alliance Best Practices document in areas to improve their state damage prevention. 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 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. The 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 SLR Notes: Yes, this is reviewed in the incident database program and checked during their annual audit visit of the operator. 2 2 6 Part E: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: No loss of points occurred in Section E. Info Only Info Only Total points scored for this section: 9 Total possible points for this section: 9 DUNS: 947393922 2010 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 Name of Operator Inspected: Southern California Gas Company (Socal) Name of State Inspector(s) Observed: Mathewson Epuna, Utilities Engineer Location of Inspection: Downey , California Date of Inspection: September 21-22, 2011 Info Only Info Only Name of PHMSA Representative: Don Martin, US DOT PHMSA State Programs SLR Notes: The inspection was performed at the gas company's offices located in Downey, CA and pipeline facilities in the Downey and Anaheim, CA area. The inspection covered Operator Qualification requirements. 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 SLR Notes: Yes, the operator was notified three weeks prior to the date of the inspection. 1 1 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, the CAPUC inspector used the Operator Qualification Protocol 9 - Field federal form. 2 2 4 Did the inspector thoroughly document results of the inspection? Previous Question F.3 Yes = 2 No = 0 SLR Notes: Yes, the inspector documented his observations and results on the federal form. 2 2 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 1 1 SLR Notes: Yes, the inspector confirmed that the operator's personnel was using the test equipment specified in the operator's Operator Qualification Plan and Operating Procedures Manual. He confirmed if proper calibration of the equipement had been completed with the timeframes specified by the operator or equipment manufacturer. 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 Info Only Info Only SLR Notes: level testing. The inspector performed Operator Qualification Protocol 9 - Field for the covered tasks of class location determination, leak survey, locate/mark and odorant 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 2010 Natural Gas State Program Evaluation California CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, Page: 14\n\nd. Other (Please Comment) SLR Notes: The inspector properly covered all the areas required to conduct a thorough inspection. 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, the inspector has twenty years of experience inspecting for compliance with pipeline safety regulations. He was very thorough and asked very good questions of the operator's personnel. 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: The exit interview was scheduled for the next day to review the results for the complete inspections. He communicated any concerns as he progressed through his inspection but there were no probable violations identified during the evaluation observation. 10 During the exit interview, did the inspector identify probable violations found during the inspections? Previous Question F.11 Yes = 1 No = 0 SLR Notes: During the evaluation observation there were no probable violations identified. 1 1 11 What did the inspector observe in the field? (Narrative description of field observations and how inspector performed) Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: Class location identification, leak surveying, locating/marking and odorant level testing. Info Only Info Only 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: There were no best practices identified. 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 2010 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: 14 Part F: General Comments/Regional Observations Info Only = No Points SLR Notes: There were no issues identified for Part F of this evaluation. DUNS: 947393922 2010 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 PU","truncated":true,"body_characters":59975}