A Denver Post review of state records shows at least a dozen explosions have occurred in oil and gas industry facilities in Colorado since an explosion killed two men in April.
The newspaper reports that two people were killed in the explosions since the deadly blast in a neighborhood in Firestone in April.
The state hasn't taken enforcement action in the Firestone deaths, citing the lack of rules covering fatal accidents in the oil and gas industry. State regulators have proposed changes to some existing rules in response to those deaths, but the proposals do not deal with fatalities.
Officials with the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission say the agency does not have authority to impose penalties for fatal explosions. Lawmakers created the commission to ensure industry operations are consistent with environmental protection and public safety standards.
You want to know what is really going on these days, especially in Colorado. We can help you keep up. The Lookout is a free, daily email newsletter with news and happenings from all over Colorado. Sign up here and we will see you in the morning!
Colorado Postcards are snapshots of our colorful state in sound. They give brief insights into our people and places, our flora and fauna, and our past and present, from every corner of Colorado. Listen now.
Join us for these upcoming events!
It takes a good day’s drive to cover Colorado, but we’ll help you do it in a few minutes. Our newsletters bring you a closer look at the stories that affect you and the music that inspires you.