NY PSC Makes 'Tapping Tees' Statewide Priority After Brewster Fire

BREWSTER, NY — As a result of a gas leak and devastating fire in Brewster in 2022, the New York State Public Service Commission on Thursday ordered gas utility companies to review, examine, and report on their use of a component called a 'tapping tee' in their distribution systems.

“The Commission seeks to ensure that public utilities maintain constant vigilance over their gas distribution systems, with public safety as a paramount concern,” said Commission Chair Rory M. Christian.

The PSC looked into tapping tees while investigating the inferno that destroyed a two-family home on Carmel Avenue a year ago. An improperly installed underground tapping tee 40 feet from the house was the source of the leak.

Tapping tees are mechanical devices used to connect gas distribution pipes, the PSC investigators said. Their investigation revealed that NYSEG had been alerted to the risks associated with incorrect installation of PermaLock Mechanical Tapping Tee Assemblies a decade before the fire. SEE: NYSEG Settles With New York For $2.75M Over Brewster Gas Leak, Fire

Meanwhile, the PCS staff reviewed a federal report concerning tapping tees. In mid-2018, the National Transportation Safety Board issued a safety recommendation derived from its investigation of a fatal accident involving a leak, explosion, and fire in Millersville, Pennsylvania as well as other incidents in Tennessee and Pennsylvania.

On Aug. 11, the Commission ordered NYSEG to submit a remediation plan to investigate the installation of similar tapping tees and confirm their safe and intended operation, or repair or replace improperly installed devices in its service territory. On Nov. 17, the Commission approved NYSEG's plan.

Now, the PSC will require all gas distribution companies in New York State to confirm their receipt of the NTSB report, whether they currently use the PermaLock Tapping Tees in their gas systems — and, if they do, provide details about the use. They have 30 days after the formal order is issued.

Thereafter, the Department and Commission will evaluate each company’s response to determine appropriate follow-up steps, officials said.

"The Commission holds public utilities responsible for the continuous maintenance and safety of their gas facilities," Christian said. "This order initiates a process to promptly identify and proactively address potential issues identified concerning installation of certain components."

The decision may be obtained by going to the Commission Documents section of the Commission’s Web site at www.dps.ny.gov and entering Case Number 23-G-0083 in the input box labeled "Search for Case/Matter Number." Many libraries offer free Internet access. Commission documents may also be obtained from the Commission’s Files Office, 14th floor, Three Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12223 (518-474-2500). If you have difficulty understanding English, please call 1-800-342-3377 for free language assistance services regarding this press release.