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How Manholes Explode

Ken Bonsor, www.science.howstuffworks.com

Washington DC has had a series of manhole accidents. Learn what makes a manhole explode.  Read the Full Article.

Four Manholes Explode In A Month

www.greenspun.comt, August 24, 2001

After 18 months of exploding manhole covers, DC Public Service Commission hires consulting firm, which determines PEPCO's maintenance procedures are inadequate to avoid the problem.  Read the Full Article.

DC Includes High Voltage Protection In Sewer Construction

www.olatheks.org, June 1, 2007

DC sets design criteria for manhole and sewage lines, requiring Worker's Installation Certification be submitted and approved by the City before work begins.  Read the Design Criteria For Sanitary Sewers and Appurtenances.

Manhole Explodes Causing Blackout

www.examiner.com, March 12, 2008

Two days after PEPCO orders DC's Utility Regulator to update it's Manhole Inspector's Training a manhole exploded setting a car ablaze and leaving 5,000 people in the dark.  Read the Full Article.

Flames and Smoke Shoot Out Of Manhole

Martin Weil & Elissa Silverman, www.washingtonpost.com, September 23, 2008

Deteriorated electrical cables and an underground transformer ignite fire in downtown Washington, cutting off electricity to office buildings.  Read the Full Article.