Pipeline disaster looms?

Pacific Gas and Electric Co. has identified 239 pipelines at risk of failure similar to the San Bruno pipeline explosion that killed eight people two years ago.

A PG&E assessment found more than 500 potentially troublesome sections on the pipelines ranging in length from a few feet to more than a mile, according to SFGate.com. Each of the sections have pipe-seam welds weakened by age or because PG&E pressurized the pipes beyond legal limits. In response, the company plans to replace or test the lines with high water pressure, though it maintains there are some over-pressurized lines that don’t require such precaution.

Critics point out that PG&E is obligated to hydro-test all over-pressurized lines, according to federal law. “PG&E is clearly misinterpreting the regulations, which are fairly clear,” said Richard Kuprewicz, a pipeline safety expert. “You have to inspect all the lines that qualify. You can’t pick and choose.”