Aliso Canyon 'Root Cause Analysis' Shows Gross Negligence

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—May 17, 2019

Contact: Alexandra Nagy, [email protected], 818-633-0865

Today, the long-awaited Root Cause Analysis for the Aliso Canyon Gas Blowout at SS-25 was released by Blade Energy Partners in conjunction with the California Public Utilities Commission.

Statement by Alexandra Nagy, Food & Water Watch California Director

“This root cause analysis highlights gross negligence by SoCalGas and the failure to conduct basic inspections to determine safety of a highly dangerous operation at Aliso Canyon. Due to the company’s neglect by putting profit over prudent inspections and maintenance, thousands of families were sickened, relocated for months, saw school schedules disrupted and lost loved ones. Many continue to suffer the health effects today.

“It is time for Governor Gavin Newsom to keep his promise and shut down Aliso Canyon immediately. SoCalGas has demonstrated negligence before and after the blowout. No amount of regulation will keep this facility safe, especially in the face of the seismic risks and the ongoing daily leaks that make nearby residents very sick.

“Since the well was capped there have been more than ten leaks, spills and fires at the facility. SoCalGas cannot be trusted to safely operate Aliso Canyon. Nothing short of the immediate shut down of Aliso Canyon will protect residents from harm.”

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