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Political Factoid
More than a half dozen cities around
the country have suffered terrifying
natural gas explosions in the last
two years.
- A safety device, known as the excess flow
valve, was invented way back in 1975.
- It is cheap and effective in shutting off
gas lines that become nearly or completely severed.
- It has long been recommended by the
National Transportation Safety Board.
- It has been actively opposed by the natural gas
industry.
... where safety obviously does not come first.
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A partial requirement was approved by Congress
in 2006 (effective June 2008) but was limited
to new lines serving single family residents.
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- The safety board continues to push for a requirement
for valves on new lines serving multi-family
residences and small businesses.
- The industry trade organization continues to lobby
against the safety board recommendations.
... and to maximize its profits.
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