Consolidated Edison violated state safety regulations in connection with a 2014 East Harlem blast that killed eight people and hurt dozens more, a state commission said Thursday.
The New York State Public Service Commission said a Department of Public Service report found the March 12, 2014, explosion happened because a gas pipe that wasn't adequately protected at a certain joint gave way under stress from eroding soil underneath it and road asphalt above it. The soil erosion from groudwater was also a contributing factor, the commission said.
The pipes were near municipal sewer facilities that hadn't been repaired in some time.
The commission directed Con Ed to respond to the report within 30 days and said it could pursue financial penalties.
Con Ed said it will respond. It said the source of the leak that led to the explosion was a cracked fitting that had been damaged in the wake of a pre-existing sewer breach.
"We also agree on the importance of doing everything in our control to prevent a tragedy like this from happening again," Con Ed said. "We implemented monthly gas leak patrols, enhanced response protocols with the Fire Department, and are working closely with the city on coordinating street infrastructure projects."
