Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley Tuesday issued an emergency declaration following Monday’s explosion of a gasoline pipeline in Helena, Alabama, relaxing hours-of-service regulations for gasoline haulers operating in the state.
The pipeline that exploded is part of the same Colonial Pipeline that leaked in September that caused gas shortages in several states along the East Coast. The pipeline runs from Texas to New York and New Jersey.
Bentley’s State of Emergency declaration suspends hours regulations for any drivers or carriers providing aid through pipeline repair or fuel transportation through Dec. 1, unless the order is canceled sooner.
Colonial says the incident occurred when a crew struck the pipeline with a trackhoe, sparking a fire and explosion that killed one worker and injured four others.