2 companies to be fined in Pa. gas well explosion

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Federal officials want to fine two western Pennsylvania companies for workplace safety violations for a deadly explosion that killed a pair of welders.

The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration says that Northeast Energy Management Inc. and Huntley & Huntley Inc. should pay penalties of $159,390 and $70,000, respectively, for the July 23 blast at a Cheswick well site.

OSHA says Tuesday that Northeast, of Indiana, Pa., failed to provide flame-retardant clothing or to ensure the tank being welded was clear of flammable material. Huntley, in Monroeville, was cited for not ensuring that Northeast had suitably trained the welders and supervisors.

The companies have 15 business days to contest the citations. Neither immediately responded to e-mails seeking comment.