27 pipeline safety violations tied to deadly Pa. chocolate factory explosion
(UI) — Pennsylvania regulators have cited 27 violations of state and federal pipeline safety rules in connection with the 2023 natural gas explosion at a chocolate factory in West Reading, which killed seven people and injured 10.
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement filed a formal complaint against UGI Utilities’ gas division, alleging failures in pipeline design, maintenance, records and emergency response tied to the incident.
The explosion occurred March 24, 2023, at the R.M. Palmer Co. facility, where natural gas leaked underground and ignited inside the building. The blast destroyed one structure, damaged another and caused an estimated $42 million in property damage.
According to the complaint, the leak originated from a retired Aldyl-A plastic service tee installed in 1982 that had degraded over time. Investigators found the failure was linked to elevated ground temperatures caused by a nearby leaking steam pipe, which accelerated deterioration of the plastic components.
“The National Transportation Safety Board determines that the probable cause of the explosion was degradation of a retired 1982 Aldyl A polyethylene service tee with a Delrin polyacetal insert that allowed natural gas to leak and migrate underground into the R.M. Palmer Company candy factory buildings, where it was ignited by an unknown source.”
Regulators allege the utility failed to properly account for heat exposure risks, did not ensure adequate clearance or insulation from nearby steam lines, and did not incorporate known risks associated with vintage plastic pipeline materials into its integrity management program.
The complaint also cites issues with inaccurate pipeline records, noting facility data incorrectly identified pipe materials, sizes and configurations at the site.
In addition, investigators found shortcomings in emergency response, including delays in isolating gas flow and difficulties locating a key valve that had been paved over and mislabeled, which may have prolonged the incident.
If proven, the violations could result in a $2.58 million civil penalty, the maximum allowed under federal pipeline safety regulations, along with required corrective actions aimed at improving inspection, monitoring and risk management practices.
Regulators are also seeking operational changes, including more frequent leak surveys on older plastic pipelines, improved tracking of high-risk materials and enhanced emergency response procedures.
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