It seems that we sometimes learn most from our worst mistakes..

Twenty Lessons from Asbestos, Dr. Irving J Selikoff, EPA Journal, May 1984

Getting smart about pipeline safety

NRDC Report

Evaluate the need for new U.S. pipeline safety regulations. Older safety standards designed for conventional oil may not provide adequate protection for communities and ecosystems in the vicinity of a DilBit pipeline. The Department of Transportation (DOT) should analyze and address the potential risks associated with the transport of DilBit at the high temperatures and pressures at which those pipelines operate and put new regulations in place as necessary to address these risks. READ MORE www.pstrust.org


The entire report can be download by clicking here

Natural Gas Safety Awareness Can Mean the Difference Between Life and Death

A Leading Energy Company Reminds People Safety is Key Following Deadly Pennsylvania Gas Explosion

Read full article: http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/news.html?d=213805

... "This terrible tragedy in Pennsylvania illustrates just how deadly natural gas can be," says Jeffrey Mayer, President and CEO of MXenergy, one of the nation's fastest growing independent energy providers. "Natural gas provides an important and invaluable service but it is equally critical that we treat it with respect and always use the upmost care when dealing with it in any capacity."

Natural Gas Safety Tips

Use Your Nose: If you smell even the slightest odor of gas leave the area immediately and call your service provider or 911 from a remote location. Do not waste time or use anything that can cause a spark, such as a cell phone or even a garage door opener

Regular Inspections: Have all gas appliances, furnaces, chimneys, vents and gas lines regularly inspected and maintained by a certified professional

Keep Areas Clear: Keep all areas surrounding appliances and equipment unblocked to allow for clear airflow

Look for the Blue Flame: Check all pilot lights and burners for a steady blue flame. The only exception is gas fireplaces which sometimes have a yellow flame

Dig Safely: Always call your local provider before you begin digging to avoid hitting an underground pipe and causing a leak

Store Properly: Never set flammable material close to any gas appliance or equipment

Properly Maintain Your Meter: Don't allow frozen rain or ice to build up on your meter. Use a broom (never a shovel) to clear ice and snow

Signs Of Trouble

Listen: A hissing noise near a pipeline or building is cause for concern. Immediately call your local service provider

Look: Dead or distressed vegetation above a gas main is another cause for concern and should be reported

Sniff: Any hint of natural gas odor inside or outdoors is cause for immediate action. Quickly leave the area and then call your provider or 911 for help

EPA Grant to protect children in homes, schools, child care

EPA's Office of Children's Health Protection is pleased to announce the release of a solicitation for grant proposals to address children's environmental health in underserved communities by building capacity for these communities to reduce environmental exposures in child-occupied settings, eg, homes, schools and child care centers.  Funds available for award are expected to total approximately $1.5 million, and EPA intends to award approximately 15-20 awards, each for an amount not to exceed $100,000.  The due date for initial proposals is February 18, 2011.  Assistance under this competition is available to States or state agencies, territories, city or township governments, county governments, the District of Columbia, federally recognized American Indian Tribes, possessions of the U.S, public and private universities and colleges, hospitals, laboratories, other public or private nonprofit institutions, and 501(c)(3) organizations.  For complete information regarding this Request for Initial Proposals, see: http://yosemite.epa.gov/ochp/ochpweb.nsf/content/grants.htm

Just Say Know: Creating Safer School Labs

Rehab the Lab: Creating Safer School Labs

Just Say Know: Getting Mercury out of Schools

Getting Mercury out of Schools ppt
http://www.newmoa.org/prevention/mercury/schools/ReducingMercuryinSchools.pdf
More resources:
http://www.newmoa.org/prevention/mercury/schools/