The U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) proposed a $3.7 million fine and two dozen enforcement actions against Enbridge Energy Partners LP for a 2010 crude oil spill in Michigan. The spill emptied more 20,000 gallons of crude oil into the banks of the Talmadge Creek and Kalamazoo River.
The record fine comes after investigators learned the Canadian-based company violated several of PHMSA’s hazardous liquid pipeline safety regulations pertaining to integrity management. The investigation also revealed the company failed to follow proper operation and management procedures as well as reporting operator qualification requirements.
Enbridge is also guilty of failing to fix several corroded areas along the pipeline. Officials also say the pipeline company waited an estimated 17 hours after the spill to notify the proper authorities.
The U.S. Department of Transportation says the company has 30 days to respond to the notice.