Why Do We Need This Bill?
Background
In May of 2003, our family suffered a tragic loss. Our daughter Amilia was killed in a propane explosion that leveled our Lake Winnepausaukie home and injured many of our family members. After the explosion, we learned that the contractor we hired had in turn subcontracted work to an untrained and unlicensed worker. The subcontractor cut a gas line connected to a gas stove in order to remove the basement cabinets, leaving the open pipe. When we turned on the gas to use the clothes dryer, propane filled the basement and ignited when it came in contact with the pilot light flame from the oil fueled furnace.
The subcontractor stated that he shut off the external fuel tank and that’s how he left the system. The National Plumbing Code that the State of New Hampshire uses for regulating natural gas and propane installations requires that any cut line be sealed prior to the worker leaving the site. Unfortunately, the subcontractor hired by our contractor didn’t know that; he had no formal training on working with explosive fuel gases. New Hampshire, unlike all the other New England states, does not require mandatory training and certification of gas installers (paid individuals installing, repairing, or modifying gas installations); it’s voluntary.
The New Hampshire Attorney General's Office and the New Hampshire Fire Marshal's Office are working with the New Hampshire General Court to pass legislation that would regulate and require licensure of fuel gas fitters.
Please read more about the Rationale for this Bill.