807 KAR 5:006. General rules.
RELATES
TO: KRS 65.810, 74, 96.934, 220.510, 278, 49 C.F.R. Part 192, 49 U.S.C. 60105
STATUTORY
AUTHORITY: KRS 278.230, 278.280(2), 49 C.F.R. 192
NECESSITY,
FUNCTION, AND CONFORMITY: KRS 278.230(3) requires every utility to file with
the commission reports, schedules, and other information that the commission
requires. KRS 278.280(2) requires the commission to promulgate an
administrative regulation for the performance of a service or the furnishing of
a commodity by a utility. This administrative regulation establishes
requirements that apply to electric, gas, water, sewage, and telephone
utilities.
Section
1. Definitions. (1) "Built-up community" means urban areas and those
areas immediately adjacent.
(2)
"Commission" is defined by KRS 278.010(15).
(3)
"Corporation" is defined by KRS 278.010(1).
(4)
"Customer" means a person, firm, corporation, or body politic
applying for or receiving service from a utility.
(5)
"Gross Annual Operating Revenue Reports" means reports that KRS
278.140 requires each utility to file with the commission.
(6)
"Nonrecurring charge" means a charge or fee assessed to a customer to
recover the specific cost of an activity, which:
(a)
Is due to a specific request for a certain type of service activity for which,
once the activity is completed, additional charges are not incurred; and
(b)
Is limited to only recover the specific cost of the specific service.
(7)
"Person" is defined by KRS 278.010(2).
(8)
"Tariff" means a utility’s schedule of all its rates, charges, tolls,
maps, terms, and conditions of service over which the commission has
jurisdiction.
(9)
"Utility" is defined by KRS 278.010(3).
(10)
"Water association" means a non-profit corporation, association, or
cooperative corporation having as its purpose the furnishing of a public water
supply.
(11)
"Water District" means a special district formed pursuant to KRS
65.810 and KRS Chapter 74.
Section
2. General Provisions. Reference to standards or codes in 807 KAR Chapter 5
shall not prohibit a utility from continuing or initiating experimental work
and installations to improve, decrease the cost of, or increase the safety of
its service.
Section
3. Utility Contact Information. (1) A utility shall notify the commission in
writing of:
(a)
The address of its main corporate and Kentucky offices, including street
address and post office box, city, state, and zip code;
(b)
The name, telephone number, facsimile number, and mailing address of the person
who serves as its primary liaison with the commission regarding its operations;
and
(c)
Its electronic mail address.
(2)
The electronic mail address required in subsection (1) of this section shall be
to an electronic mail account that the utility accesses at least once weekly
and that is capable of receiving electronic mail from external sources and with
attachments up to five (5) megabytes in size. Unless a utility otherwise
advises the commission in writing, all electronic mail transmissions from the
commission to the utility shall be sent to this address.
(3)
A utility shall notify the commission in writing of a change in the information
required in subsection (1) of this section within ten (10) days of the date of
the change.
Section
4. Reports. (1) Gross annual operating revenue reports.
(a)
Each utility shall file with the commission its gross operating revenue report
on or before March 31 of each year.
(b)
An extension request shall not be permitted for a gross annual operating
revenue report.
(c)
A utility may file an amendment to its report. An amendment shall be filed with
the commission on or before May 24 of the same year.
(d)
The commission shall:
1.
Not certify to the Department of Revenue the amounts of intrastate business established
in an amendment filed with the commission after May 24 of that year; and
2.
Report those amounts to the Department of Revenue for informational purposes.
(2)
Financial and statistical reports.
(a)
Every utility shall file annually using the commission’s electronic filing
system a financial and statistical report on or before March 31 of each year.
(b)
This report shall be based upon utility type and the accounts established in
conformity with the uniform system of accounts prescribed for that utility
type.
(c)
If documents are required to supplement or complete the report and cannot be
submitted through the commission’s electronic filing system, the utility shall
file these documents in paper form with the commission no later than March 31.
(d)
The commission shall make the reporting forms available on the commission’s Web
site at http://psc.ky.gov/.
(e)
For good cause shown, the executive director of the commission shall, upon
application in writing, allow an appropriate extension of time for the filing.
(3)
Financial statement audit reports. A utility required to file a report in
accordance with subsection (2) of this section shall file with the commission
on or before September 30 each year, a copy of the audit report of the Kentucky
regulated entity, from the audit performed the previous year, or a statement
that no audit was performed of the Kentucky regulated entity the previous year.
For good cause shown, the executive director of the commission shall, upon
application in writing, allow an appropriate extension of time for the filing.
(4)
Report of meters, customers, and refunds. Each gas, electric, or water utility
shall file quarterly either a Quarterly Meter Report-Electric, Quarterly Meter
Report, or a Quarterly Meter Report-Electric-Gas-Water, of meter tests, number
of customers, and amount of refunds.
(5)
Report of terminations for nonpayment of bills. Each water, electric, or gas
utility shall file either the Water Utility Non-Payment
Disconnection/Reconnection Report, Electric Utility Non-Payment
Disconnection/Reconnection Report, or Gas Utility Non-Payment
Disconnection/Reconnection Report, annually to report the number of residential
accounts terminated for nonpayment. These reports shall be filed no later than
August 15 and shall cover the period ending June 30.
(6)
Record and report retention. All records and reports shall be retained in
accordance with the uniform system of accounts unless otherwise specified.
(7)
Transmittal letter. Each report shall be accompanied by a transmittal letter
describing the report being furnished.
(8)
Amending reports. Upon discovering a material error in a report filed with the
commission, a utility shall file an amended report to correct the error.
Section
5. Service Information. (1)(a) A utility shall, on request, give its customers
or prospective customers information that enables the customers to secure safe,
efficient, and continuous service.
(b)
A utility shall inform its customers of a change made or proposed in the
character of its service that might affect the efficiency, safety, or
continuity of operation.
(2)
Prior to making a substantial change in the character of the service furnished
that would affect the efficiency, adjustment, speed, or operation of the
equipment or appliances of a customer, a utility shall apply for the
commission’s approval. The application shall show the nature of the change to
be made, the number of customers affected, and the manner in which they will be
affected.
(3)
The utility shall inform each applicant for service of each type, class, and character
of service available at each location.
Section
6. Special Rules or Requirements. (1) A utility shall not establish a special
rule or requirement without first obtaining the approval of the commission.
(2)
Unless specifically authorized by this administrative regulation, a utility
shall not deny or refuse service to a customer who has complied with all
conditions of service established in the utility’s tariff on file with the
commission
(3)(a)
Obtaining easements and rights-of-way necessary to extend service shall be the
responsibility of the utility.
(b)
A utility shall not:
1.
Require a prospective customer to obtain easements or rights-of-way on property
not owned by the prospective customer as a condition for providing service; or
2.
Refuse to provide service to a prospective or existing customer on the basis of
that customer’s refusal to grant an easement for facilities that do not serve
the customer.
(c)
The cost of obtaining easements or rights-of-way shall be included in the total
per foot cost of an extension, and shall be apportioned among the utility and
customer in accordance with 807 KAR 5:041, 5:061, or 5:066.
Section
7. Billings, Meter Readings, and Information. (1) Information on bills.
(a)
Each bill for utility service issued periodically by a utility shall clearly
show:
1.
The date the bill was issued;
2.
Class of service;
3.
Present and last preceding meter readings;
4.
Date of the present reading;
5.
Number of units consumed;
6.
Meter constant, if applicable;
7.
Net amount for service rendered;
8.
All taxes;
9.
Adjustments, if applicable;
10.
The gross amount of the bill;
11.
The date after which a penalty may apply to the gross amount; and
12.
If the bill is estimated or calculated.
(b)
The rate schedule under which the bill is computed shall be posted on the
utility’s Web site, if it maintains a Web site, and shall also be furnished
under one (1) of the following methods, by:
1.
Printing it on the bill;
2.
Publishing it in a newspaper of general circulation once each year;
3.
Mailing it to each customer once each year; or
4.
Providing a place on each bill for a customer to indicate the customer’s desire
for a copy of the applicable rates. The utility shall mail the customer a copy
by return first class mail.
(2)
Flat rates. Flat rates for unmetered service shall approximate as closely as
possible the utility's rates for metered service. The rate schedule shall
clearly establish the basis upon which consumption is estimated.
(3)
Bill format. Each utility shall include the billing form; including an e-bill
form, if applicable; to be used by it, or its contents, in its tariffed rules.
(4)
Meter readings. Registration of each meter shall read in the same units as used
for billing unless a conversion factor is shown on the billing form.
(5)
Frequency of meter reading.
(a)
Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, each utility, except if
prevented by reasons beyond its control, shall read customer meters at least
quarterly;
(b)
Each customer-read meter shall be read manually, at least once during each
calendar year.
(c)
Records shall be kept by the utility to insure that the information required by
this subsection is available to the commission and any customer requesting this
information.
(d)
If, due to reasons beyond its control, a utility is unable to read a meter in
accordance with this subsection, the utility shall record the date and time the
attempt was made, if applicable, and the reason the utility was unable to read
the meter.
Section
8. Deposits. (1) Determination of deposits.
(a)
A utility may require from a customer a minimum cash deposit or other guaranty
to secure payment of bills, except from those customers qualifying for service
reconnection pursuant to Section 16 of this administrative regulation.
(b)
A utility shall not require a deposit based solely on the customer being a
tenant or renter.
(c)
The method of determining the amount of a cash deposit may differ between
classes of customers, but shall be uniform for all customers within the same
class.
(d)
The amount of a cash deposit shall be determined by one (1) of the methods
established in this paragraph.
1.
Calculated deposits.
a.
If actual usage data is available for the customer at the same or similar
premises, the deposit amount shall be calculated using the customer's average
bill for the most recent twelve (12) month period.
b.
If actual usage data is not available, the deposit amount shall be based on the
average bills of similar customers and premises in the system.
c.
Deposit amounts shall not exceed two-twelfths (2/12) of the customer's actual
or estimated annual bill if bills are rendered monthly, three-twelfths (3/12)
if bills are rendered bimonthly, or four-twelfths (4/12) if bills are rendered
quarterly.
2.
Equal deposits.
a.
A utility may establish an equal deposit amount for each class based on the
average bill of customers in that class.
b.
Deposit amounts shall not exceed two-twelfths (2/12) of the average bill of
customers in the class if bills are rendered monthly, three-twelfths (3/12) if
bills are rendered bimonthly, or four-twelfths (4/12) if bills are rendered
quarterly.
3.
Recalculation of deposits.
a.
If a utility retains either an equal or calculated deposit for more than
eighteen (18) months, it shall notify customers in writing that, at the
customer's request, the deposit shall be recalculated every eighteen (18)
months based on actual usage of the customer.
b.
The notice of deposit recalculation shall be included:
(i)
On the customer's application for service;
(ii)
On the receipt of deposit; or
(iii)
Annually with or on customer bills.
c.
The notice of deposit recalculation shall state that if the deposit on account
differs by more than ten (10) dollars for residential customers, or by more
than ten (10) percent for nonresidential customers, from the deposit calculated
on actual usage, the utility shall refund any over-collection and may collect
any underpayment.
d.
A refund shall be made either by check, electronic funds transfer, or by credit
to the customer's account, except that a utility shall not be required to
refund an excess deposit if the customer's account is delinquent upon
recalculation of the deposit.
(2)
Waiver of deposits. Deposits may be waived in accordance with criteria established
in its tariff.
(3)
Additional deposit requirement.
(a)
If a deposit has been waived as established in subsection (2) of this section
or has been returned and the customer fails to maintain a satisfactory payment
record as defined in the utility’s tariff, a utility may require a deposit.
(b)
If substantial change in the customer’s usage has occurred, the utility may
require an additional deposit.
(c)
An additional or subsequent deposit shall not be required of a residential customer
whose payment record is satisfactory, unless the customer's classification of
service changes, except as established in subsection (1)(d)3 of this section.
(4)
Receipt of deposit.
(a)
A utility shall issue to every customer from whom a deposit is collected a
receipt of deposit.
(b)
The receipt shall show the name of the customer, location of the service or
customer account number, date, and amount of deposit.
(c)
If the notice of recalculation established in subsection (1)(d)3 of this
section is not included in the utility's application for service or mailed with
customer bills, the receipt of deposit shall contain the notification.
(d)
If deposit amounts change, the utility shall issue a new receipt of deposit to
the customer.
(5)
Deposits as a condition of service. Except as established in Section 16 of this
administrative regulation, a utility may refuse or discontinue service to a
customer pursuant to Section 15 of this administrative regulation if payment of
requested deposits is not made.
(6)
Interest on deposits.
(a)
Interest shall accrue on all deposits at the rate prescribed by KRS 278.460,
beginning on the date of deposit.
(b)
Interest accrued shall be refunded to the customer or credited to the
customer's bill on an annual basis.
(c)
If interest is paid or credited to the customer's bill prior to twelve (12)
months from the date of deposit, or the last interest payment date, the payment
or credit shall be on a prorated basis.
(d)
Upon termination of service, the deposit; any principal amounts, and interest
earned and owing shall be credited to the final bill with any remainder
refunded to the customer.
(7)
Interest on deposits for water districts and associations.
(a)
A water district or association that maintains a separate interest-bearing bank
account designated as the customer deposit account shall pay interest to its
customers on the deposits held at the rate in effect at each customer’s
anniversary date or at December 31 of the previous year for the customer
deposit account.
(b)
A water district or association that does not maintain a separate
interest-bearing bank account designated as the customer deposit account shall
pay interest to its customers on the deposits held at a rate that is the
weighted average rate of all of its interest bearing accounts as of December 31
of the previous year.
(c)
If the water district or association does not have funds in an interest-bearing
account, the water district or association shall pay interest to its customers
on the deposits held at the rate in effect at each customer’s anniversary date
or at December 31 of the previous year for a basic savings account at the
financial institution at which the water district or association maintains its
operation and maintenance account.
(8)
Tariff requirements. A utility that chooses to require deposits shall establish
and include in its filed tariff the deposit policy to be utilized. This policy
shall include:
(a)
The method by which deposit amounts will be determined for each customer class;
(b)
Standard criteria for determining if a deposit will be required or waived;
(c)
The deposit amount for each customer class if the method in subsection (1)(d)(2)
of this section is used;
(d)
The period of time the utility will retain the deposit, or the conditions under
which the utility will refund the deposit, or both if applicable; and
(e)
The manner in which interest on deposits will be calculated and accrued and
refunded or credited to customers' bills.
Section
9. Nonrecurring Charges. (1) A utility may make special nonrecurring charges to
recover customer-specific costs incurred that would otherwise result in
monetary loss to the utility or increased rates to other customers to whom no
benefits accrue from the service provided or action taken. A utility desiring
to establish or change a special nonrecurring charge shall apply for commission
approval of the charge in accordance with the provisions of 807 KAR 5:011,
Section 10.
(2)
A nonrecurring charge shall be included in a utility’s tariff and applied uniformly
throughout the area served by the utility. A charge shall relate directly to
the service performed or action taken and shall yield only enough revenue to
pay the expenses incurred in rendering the service.
(3)
A nonrecurring charge shall include the charges listed in this subsection and
may include other customer specific costs in accordance with this section and
807 KAR 5:011, Section 10.
(a)
Turn-on charge.
1.
A turn-on charge may be assessed for a new service turn on, seasonal turn on,
or temporary service.
2.
A turn-on charge shall not be made for initial installation of service if a tap
fee is applicable.
(b)
Reconnect charge.
1.
A reconnect charge may be assessed to reconnect a service that has been
terminated for nonpayment of bills or violation of the utility's tariffed rules
or 807 KAR Chapter 5.
2.
A customer who qualifies for service reconnection pursuant to Section 16 of
this administrative regulation shall be exempt from reconnect charges.
(c)
Termination or field collection charge.
1.
A charge may be assessed if a utility representative makes a trip to the
premises of a customer for the purpose of terminating service.
2.
The charge may be assessed if the utility representative actually terminates
service or if, in the course of the trip, the utility representative agrees to
delay termination based on the customer's payment or agreement to pay the
delinquent bill by a specific date.
3.
The utility shall not make a field collection charge more than once in a
billing period.
(d)
Special meter reading charge. This charge may be assessed if:
1.
A customer requests that a meter be reread, and the second reading shows the
original reading was correct. A charge shall not be assessed if the original
reading was incorrect; or
2.
A customer who reads his or her own meter fails to read the meter for three (3)
consecutive months and it is necessary for a utility representative to make a
trip to read the meter.
(e)
Meter resetting charge. A charge may be assessed for resetting a meter if the meter
has been removed at the customer's request.
(f)
Meter test charge. This charge may be assessed if a customer requests the meter
be tested pursuant to Section 19 of this administrative regulation and the
tests show the as-found meter accuracy is within the limits established by 807
KAR 5:022, Section 8(3)(a)1. and 8(3)(b)1.; 5:041, Section 17(1); or 5:066,
Section 15(2)(a).
(g)
Returned payment charge. A returned payment charge may be assessed if payment
of a utility bill is not honored by the customer's financial institution.
(h)
Late payment charge. A late payment charge may be assessed if a customer fails
to pay a bill for services by the due date shown on the customer's bill.
1.
The late payment charge may be assessed only once on a bill for rendered
services.
2.
A payment received shall first be applied to the bill for service rendered.
3.
Additional late payment charges shall not be assessed on unpaid late payment
charges.
Section
10. Customer Complaints to the Utility. (1) Upon complaint to a utility by a
customer at the utility's office, by telephone or in writing, the utility shall
make a prompt and complete investigation and advise the customer of the
utility’s findings.
(2)
The utility shall keep a record of all written complaints concerning the
utility’s service. This record shall include:
(a)
The customer’s name and address;
(b)
The date and nature of the complaint; and
(c)
The disposition of the complaint.
(3)
Records shall be maintained for two (2) years from the date of resolution of
the complaint.
(4)
If a written complaint or a complaint made in person at the utility's office is
not resolved, the utility shall provide written notice to the customer of his
or her right to file a complaint with the commission and shall provide the
customer with the mailing address, Web site address, and telephone number of
the commission.
(5)
If a telephonic complaint is not resolved, the utility shall provide at least
oral notice to the customer of his or her right to file a complaint with the commission
and the mailing address, Web site address, and telephone number of the
commission.
Section
11. Bill Adjustment for Gas, Electric, or Water Utilities. (1) If, upon
periodic test, request test, or complaint test, a meter in service is found to
be in error in excess of the limits established by 807 KAR 5:022, Section 8(3)(a)2.;
5:041, Section 17(1); or 5:066, Section 15(4), additional tests shall be made
in accordance with those same administrative regulations applicable for the
meter type involved to determine the average meter error.
(2)(a)
If test results on a customer's meter show an average meter error greater than
two (2) percent fast or slow, or if a customer has been incorrectly billed for another
reason, except if a utility has filed a verified complaint with the appropriate
law enforcement agency alleging fraud or theft by a customer, the utility
shall:
1.
Immediately determine the period during which the error has existed;
2.
Recompute and adjust the customer's bill to either provide a refund to the
customer or collect an additional amount of revenue from the underbilled
customer; and
3.
Readjust the account based upon the period during which the error is known to
have existed.
(b)1.
If the period during which the error existed cannot be determined with
reasonable precision, the time period shall be estimated using the data as
elapsed time since the last meter test, if applicable, and historical usage
data for the customer.
2.
If that data is not available, the average usage of a similar class of
customers shall be used for comparison purposes in calculating the time period.
(c)
If the customer and the utility are unable to agree on an estimate of the time
period during which the error existed, the commission shall determine the issue
based on this section.
(d)
In an instance of customer overbilling, the customer's account shall be
credited or the overbilled amount refunded at the discretion of the customer
within thirty (30) days after the investigation is complete.
(e)
A utility shall not require customer repayment of an underbilling to be made
over a period shorter than a period coextensive with the underbilling.
(3)
Monitoring usage.
(a)
A utility shall monitor a customer’s usage at least quarterly according to
procedures that shall be included in its tariff.
(b)
The procedures shall be designed to draw the utility's attention to unusual
deviations in a customer's usage and shall provide for reasonable means by
which the utility can determine the reasons for the unusual deviation.
(c)
If a customer's usage is unduly high and the deviation is not otherwise
explained, the utility shall test the customer's meter to determine if the
meter shows an average meter error greater than two (2) percent fast or slow.
(4)
Usage investigation.
(a)
If a utility’s procedure for monitoring usage indicates that an investigation
of a customer's usage is necessary, the utility shall notify the customer in
writing:
1.
Within ten (10) days of removing the meter from service, that a usage
investigation is being conducted and the reasons for the investigation; and
2.
Within ten (10) days upon completion of the investigation of the findings of
the investigation.
(b)
If knowledge of a serious situation requires more expeditious notice, the
utility shall notify the customer by the most expedient means available.
(c)
If the meter shows an average meter error greater than two (2) percent fast or
slow, the utility shall maintain the meter in question at a secure location
under the utility’s control, for a period of six (6) months from the date the
customer is notified of the finding of the investigation and the time frame the
meter will be secured by the utility or if the customer has filed a formal
complaint pursuant to KRS 278.260, the meter shall be maintained until the
proceeding is resolved.
(5)
Customer notification. If a meter is tested and it is found necessary to make a
refund or back bill a customer, the customer shall be notified in substantially
the following form:
On
___________, (date)___, the meter bearing identification No. ____ installed in
your building located at _____ (Street and Number) in ___________ (city) was
tested at ___________ (on premises or elsewhere) and found to register _____
(percent fast or slow). The meter was tested on ____________ (Periodic,
Request, Complaint) test. Based upon these test results the utility will
__________ (charge or credit) your account in the sum of $__________, which has
been noted on your regular bill. If you desire a cash refund, rather than a credit
to your account, of any amount overbilled, you shall notify this office in
writing within seven (7) days of the date of this notice.
(6)
A customer account shall be considered to be current while a dispute is pending
pursuant to this section, if the customer:
(a)
Continues to make payments for the disputed period in accordance with historic
usage, or if that data is not available, the average usage of similar customer
loads; and
(b)
Stays current on subsequent bills.
Section
12. Status of Customer Accounts During Billing Dispute. With respect to a
billing dispute to which Section 11 of this administrative regulation does not
apply, a customer account shall be considered to be current while the dispute
is pending if the customer continues to make undisputed payments and stays
current on subsequent bills.
Section
13. Customer's Request for Termination of Service. (1)(a) A customer who
requests that service be terminated or changed from one (1) address to another
shall give the utility three (3) working days' notice in person, in writing, or
by telephone, if the notice does not violate contractual obligations or tariff
provisions.
(b)
The customer shall not be responsible for charges for service beyond the three
(3) day notice period if the customer provides access to the meter during the
notice period in accordance with section 20 of this administrative regulation.
(c)
If the customer notifies the utility of his request for termination by
telephone, the burden of proof shall be on the customer to prove that service
termination was requested if a dispute arises.
(2)
Upon request that service be reconnected at a premises subsequent to the
initial installation or connection to its service lines, the utility may,
subject to subsection (3) of this section, charge the applicant a reconnect fee
established in its filed tariff.
(3)
A utility desiring to establish a termination or reconnection charge pursuant
to subsection (2) of this section shall apply for commission approval of the
charge in accordance with the provisions of 807 KAR 5:011, Section 10.
Section
14. Utility Customer Relations. (1) A utility shall post and maintain regular
business hours and provide representatives available to assist its customers
and to respond to inquiries from the commission regarding customer complaints.
(a)
Available telephone numbers. Each utility shall:
1.
Maintain a telephone;
2.
Publish the telephone number in all service areas; and
3.
Permit all customers to contact the utility's designated representative without
charge.
(b)
Designated representatives. Each utility shall designate at least one (1)
representative to be available to answer customer questions, resolve disputes,
and negotiate partial payment plans at the utility's office. The designated
representative shall be knowledgeable of this administrative regulation; 807
KAR 5:001, Section 20; KRS 278.160(2); and KRS 278.225 regarding customer bills
and service and shall be authorized to negotiate and accept partial payment
plans.
1.
Each water, sewer, electric, or gas utility having annual operating revenues of
$250,000 or more shall make the designated representative available during the
utility's established working hours not fewer than seven (7) hours per day,
five (5) days per week, excluding legal holidays.
2.
Each water, sewer, electric, or gas utility having annual operating revenues of
less than $250,000 shall make the designated representative available during
the utility's established working hours not fewer than seven (7) hours per day,
one (1) day per week. Additionally, during the months of November through
March, each utility providing gas or electric service shall make available the
designated representative during the utility's established working hours not
fewer than five (5) days per week, excluding legal holidays.
(c)
Display of customer rights.
1.
Each utility shall prominently display in each office open to the public for
customer service, and shall post on its Web site, if it maintains a Web site, a
summary, prepared and provided by the commission, of the customer's rights pursuant
to this section and Section 16 of this administrative regulation.
2.
If a customer indicates to any utility personnel that he or she is experiencing
difficulty in paying a current utility bill, that employee shall refer the
customer to the designated representative for an explanation of his or her
rights.
(d)
Utility personnel training.
1.
The chief operating officer of a utility that provides electric or gas service
to residential customers shall certify under oath annually the training of
utility personnel assigned to counsel persons presenting themselves for utility
service pursuant to this section.
2.
If the electric or gas utility is not incorporated in Kentucky and if the
utility’s corporate headquarters is not located in Kentucky, then the utility’s
highest ranking officer located in Kentucky shall make the required certification.
3.
Training shall include an annual review of this administrative regulation and
policies regarding winter hardship and disconnect, Cabinet for Health and
Family Services (or its designee) policy and programs for issuing certificates
of need, and the utility's policies regarding collection, arrears repayment
plans, budget billing procedures, and weather or health disconnect policies.
4. Certification shall
include written notice to the commission by no later than October 31 of each
year identifying the personnel trained, the date training occurred, and that
the training met the requirements of this section.
(2)
Partial payment plans. Each utility shall negotiate and accept reasonable
partial payment plans at the request of residential customers who have received
a termination notice for failure to pay as provided in Section 15 of this
administrative regulation, except that a utility is not required to negotiate a
partial payment plan with a customer who is delinquent under a previous partial
payment plan. Partial payment plans shall be mutually agreed upon and subject
to the conditions in this section and Section 15 of this administrative regulation.
Partial payment plans that extend for a period longer than thirty (30) days
shall be in writing or electronically recorded, state the date and the amount
of payment due. Written partial payment plans shall be dated and signed by both
parties, and shall advise customers that service may be terminated without
additional notice if the customer fails to meet the obligations of the plan.
(a)
Budget payment plans for water, gas, and electric utilities. A water, gas, and
electric utility shall develop and offer to the utility’s residential customers
a budget payment plan based on historical or estimated usage whereby a customer
may elect to pay a fixed amount each month in lieu of monthly billings based on
actual usage.
1.
Pursuant to this plan, a utility shall issue bills that adjust accounts so as
to bring each participating customer current once each twelve (12) month
period. The customer's account may be adjusted at the end of the twelve (12)
month period or through a series of levelized adjustments on a monthly basis if
usage indicates that the account will not be current upon payment of the last
budget amount.
2.
Budget payment plans shall be offered to residential customers and may be
offered to other classes of customers.
3.
The provisions of the budget plan shall be included in the utility's tariffed
rules.
4.
The utility shall provide information to its customers regarding the availability
of budget payment plans.
(b)
Partial payment plans for customers with medical certificates or certificates
of need. For customers presenting certificates pursuant to the provisions of
Sections 15(3) and 16 of this administrative regulation, gas and electric
utilities shall negotiate partial payment plans based upon the customer's
ability to pay, requiring accounts to become current not later than the
following October 15. The plans include, for example, budget payment plans and
plans that defer payment of a portion of the arrearage until after the end of
the heating season through a schedule of unequal payments.
(3)
Utility inspections of service conditions prior to providing service. Each
electric, gas, water, and sewer utility shall inspect the condition of its
meter and service connections before making service connections to a new
customer so that prior or fraudulent use of the facilities shall not be attributed
to the new customer.
(a)
The new customer shall be afforded the opportunity to be present at the inspections.
(b)
The utility shall not be required to render service to a customer until all
defects in the customer-owned portion of the service facilities have been
corrected.
(4)
Prompt connection of service. Except as provided in Section 16 of this
administrative regulation, the utility shall reconnect existing service within
twenty-four (24) hours or close of the next business day, whichever is later,
and shall install and connect new service within seventy-two (72) hours or
close of the next business day, whichever is later, if the cause for refusal or
discontinuance of service has been corrected and the utility's tariffed rules
and 807 KAR Chapter 5 have been met.
(5)
Advance termination notice. If advance termination notice is required, the
termination notice shall be mailed or otherwise delivered to the customer’s
last known address. The termination notice shall be in writing, distinguishable
and separate from a bill.
(a)
The termination notice shall plainly state the reason for termination, that the
termination date shall not be affected by receipt of a subsequent bill, and that
the customer has the right to dispute the reasons for termination.
(b)
The termination notice shall also comply with the applicable requirements of
Section 15 of this administrative regulation.
Section
15. Refusal or Termination of Service. (1) A utility may refuse or terminate
service to a customer only pursuant to the following conditions, except as
provided in subsections (2) and (3) of this section:
(a)
For noncompliance with the utility's tariffed rules or the commission’s
administrative regulations.
1.
A utility may terminate service for a customer’s failure to comply with
applicable tariffed rules or 807 KAR Chapter 5 pertaining to that service.
2.
A utility shall not terminate or refuse service to a customer for noncompliance
with the utility’s tariffed rules or 807 KAR Chapter 5 without first having
made a reasonable effort to obtain customer compliance.
3.
After the effort by the utility, service may be terminated or refused only
after the customer has been given at least ten (10) days written termination
notice pursuant to Section 14(5) of this administrative regulation.
(b)
For dangerous conditions. If a dangerous condition relating to a utility’s
service that could subject a person to imminent harm or result in substantial
damage to the property of the utility or others is found to exist on the
customer's premises, the service shall be refused or terminated without advance
notice.
1.
The utility shall notify the customer immediately in writing and, if possible,
orally of the reasons for the termination or refusal.
2.
The notice shall be recorded by the utility and shall include the corrective
action to be taken by the customer or utility before service can be restored or
provided.
3.
If the dangerous condition, such as gas piping or a gas-fired appliance, can be
effectively isolated or secured from the rest of the system, the utility need
discontinue service only to the affected piping or appliance.
(c)
For refusal of access. If a customer refuses or neglects to provide reasonable
access to the premises for installation, operation, meter reading, maintenance,
or removal of utility property, the utility may terminate or refuse service.
The action shall be taken only if corrective action negotiated between the
utility and customer has failed to resolve the situation and after the customer
has been given at least ten (10) days' written notice of termination pursuant
to Section 14(5) of this administrative regulation.
(d)
For outstanding indebtedness. Except as provided in Section 16 of this
administrative regulation, a utility shall not be required to furnish new
service to a person contracting for service who is indebted to the utility for
service furnished or other tariffed charges until that person contracting for
service has paid his indebtedness.
(e)
For noncompliance with state, local, or other codes. A utility may refuse or
terminate service to a customer if the customer does not comply with state,
municipal, or other codes. A utility may terminate service pursuant to this
subsection only after ten (10) days' written notice is provided pursuant to
Section 14(5) of this administrative regulation, unless ordered to terminate
immediately by a governmental official.
(f)
For nonpayment of bills. A utility may terminate service at a point of delivery
for nonpayment of charges incurred for utility service at that point of
delivery. A utility shall not terminate service to any person contracting for
service for nonpayment of bills for any tariffed charge without first having
mailed or otherwise delivered an advance termination notice which complies with
the requirements of Section 14(5) of this administrative regulation.
1.
Termination notice requirements for electric or gas service.
a.
Each electric or gas utility proposing to terminate customer service for
nonpayment shall mail or otherwise deliver to that customer ten (10) days'
written notice of intent to terminate.
b.
Service shall not, for any reason, be terminated before twenty-seven (27) days
after the mailing date of the original unpaid bill.
c.
The termination notice to residential customers shall include written
notification to the customer of the existence of local, state, and federal
programs providing for the payment of utility bills under certain conditions,
and of the address and telephone number of the Cabinet for Health and Family
Services (or its designee) to contact for possible assistance.
2
Termination notice requirements for water, sewer, or telephone service.
a.
Each water, sewer, or telephone utility proposing to terminate customer service
for nonpayment shall mail or otherwise deliver to that customer five (5) days'
written notice of intent to terminate.
b.
Service shall not, for any reason, be terminated before twenty (20) days after
the mailing date of the original unpaid bill.
3.
The termination notice requirements of this subsection shall not apply if
termination notice requirements to a particular customer or customers are
otherwise dictated by the terms of a special contract between the utility and
customer, which has been approved by the commission.
4.
This subsection shall not prevent or restrict a utility from discontinuing
service if a sewer service provider requests discontinuance of a customer’s
water service pursuant to KRS 74.408, 96.934, or 220.510, nor shall it restrict
a water district from discontinuing water service to a customer who has failed
to pay his bill for sewer service that the water district has provided.
(g)
For illegal use or theft of service. A utility may terminate service to a customer
without advance notice if it has evidence that a customer has obtained
unauthorized service by illegal use or theft.
1.a.
Within twenty-four (24) hours after termination, the utility shall send written
notification to the customer of the reasons for termination or refusal of
service upon which the utility relies, and of the customer's right to challenge
the termination by filing a formal complaint with the commission.
b.
This right of termination is separate from and in addition to any other legal
remedies that the utility may pursue for illegal use or theft of service.
2.
The utility shall not be required to restore service until the customer has
complied with all tariffed rules of the utility, KRS Chapter 278, and 807 KAR
Chapter 5.
(2)
A utility shall not terminate service to a customer if:
(a)
Payment for services is made. If, following receipt of a termination notice for
nonpayment but prior to the actual termination of service payment of the amount
in arrears is received by the utility, service shall not be terminated;
(b)
A payment agreement is in effect. Service shall not be terminated for
nonpayment if the customer and the utility have entered into a partial payment
plan in accordance with Section 14 of this administrative regulation and the
customer is meeting the requirements of the plan; or
(c)
A medical certificate is presented. Service shall not be terminated for thirty
(30) days beyond the termination date if a physician, registered nurse, or
public health officer certifies in writing that termination of service will
aggravate a debilitating illness or infirmity currently suffered by a resident
living at the affected premises.
1.
A utility may refuse to grant consecutive extensions for medical certificates
past the original thirty (30) days unless the certificate is accompanied by an
agreed partial payment plan in accordance with Section 14 of this
administrative regulation.
2.
A utility shall not require a new deposit from a customer to avoid termination
of service for a thirty (30) day period who presents to the utility a medical
certificate certified in writing by a physician, registered nurse, or public
health officer.
(3)
A gas or electric utility shall not terminate service for thirty (30) days
beyond the termination date if the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family
Services (or its designee) certifies in writing that the customer is eligible
for the cabinet's energy assistance program or household income is at or below
130 percent of the poverty level, and the customer presents the certificate to
the utility.
(a)
A customer eligible for certification from the Cabinet for Health and Family
Services shall have been issued a termination notice between November 1 and
March 31.
(b)
Each certificate shall be presented to the utility during the initial ten (10)
day termination notice period.
(c)1.
As a condition of the thirty (30) day extension, the customer shall exhibit
good faith in paying his indebtedness by making a present payment in accordance
with his ability to do so.
2.
In addition, the customer shall agree to a repayment plan in accordance with
Section 14 of this administrative regulation, which shall permit the customer
to become current in the payment of his bill as soon as possible but not later
than October 15.
(d)
A utility shall not require a new deposit from a customer to avoid termination
of service for a thirty (30) day period who presents a certificate to the
utility certified by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (or its
designee) that the customer is eligible for the cabinet's Energy Assistance
Program or whose household income is at or below 130 percent of the poverty
level.
Section
16. Winter Hardship Reconnection. (1) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section
14(4) of this administrative regulation to the contrary, an electric or gas
utility shall reconnect service to a residential customer who has been
disconnected for nonpayment of bills pursuant to Section 15(1)(f) of this
administrative regulation prior to application for reconnection, and who applies
for reconnection during the months from November 1 through March 31 if the customer
or his agent:
(a)
Presents a certificate of need from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services
(or its designee), including a certification that a referral for weatherization
services has been made in accordance with subsection (3) of this section;
(b)
Pays one-third (1/3) of his outstanding bill or $200, whichever is less; and
(c)
Agrees to a repayment schedule that would permit the customer to become current
in the payment of his electric or gas bill as soon as possible but no later
than October 15.
1.
If the customer applies for reconnection and the customer has an outstanding
bill in excess of $600 and agrees to a repayment plan that would pay current
charges and makes a good faith reduction in the outstanding bill consistent
with his ability to pay, then the plan shall be accepted.
2.
In addition to payment of current charges, repayment schedules shall provide an
option to the customer to select either one (1) payment of arrearages per month
or more than one (1) payment of arrearages per month.
(d)
A utility shall not require a new deposit from a customer whose service is
reconnected due to paragraphs (a), (b), or (c) of this subsection.
(2)
Certificate of need for reconnection. A customer who is eligible for energy
assistance under the Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ guidelines or is
certified as being in genuine financial need, which is defined as a household
with gross income at or below 130 percent of the poverty level, may obtain a
certificate of need from the cabinet (or its designee) to be used in obtaining
a service reconnection from the utility.
(3)
Weatherization program. Customers obtaining a certificate of need pursuant to
this administrative regulation shall agree to accept referral to and utilize
weatherization services administered by the Cabinet for Health and Family
Services. The provision and acceptance of weatherization services shall be
contingent on the availability of funds and other program guidelines.
Weatherization services include, for example, weather stripping, insulation,
and caulking. A customer current with his or her payment plan pursuant to subsection
1(c) of this section shall not be disconnected.
Section
17. Meter Testing. (1) All electric, gas, and water utilities furnishing
metered service shall provide meter standards and test facilities, as more
specifically established in 807 KAR 5:022, 5:041, and 5:066. Before being
installed for use by a customer, an electric, gas, and water meter shall be
tested and in good working order and shall be adjusted as close to the optimum
operating tolerance as possible, as more specifically established in 807 KAR
5:022, Section 8(3)(a), 5:041, Section 17(1)(a)-(c), and 5:066, Section
15(2)(a)-(b).
(2)
A utility may have all or part of its testing of meters performed by another
utility or agency approved by the commission for that purpose. Each utility
having tests made by another agency or utility shall notify the commission of
those arrangements in detail to include make, type, and serial number of
standards used to make the tests.
(3)
A utility shall not place in service a basic measurement standard required by 807
KAR Chapter 5 unless the calibration has been approved by the commission. All
utilities or agencies making tests or checks for utility purposes shall notify
the commission promptly of the adoption or deletion of a basic standard
requiring commission approval of the calibration.
(4)
An electric, gas, and water utility or agency doing meter testing for a utility
shall have in its employ meter testers certified by the commission. These
certified meter testers shall perform tests as necessary to determine the
accuracy of the utility's meters and to adjust the utility's meters to the
degree of accuracy required by 807 KAR Chapter 5.
(5)
A utility or agency desiring to have an employee certified as meter tester
shall submit the name of each applicant on an "Application for Appointment
of Meter Tester." The applicant shall pass a written test administered by
commission staff and have his competency in the testing of meters verified by
commission staff, at which time the applicant shall be certified as a meter
tester and furnished with a card authorizing him to perform meter tests.
(6)
A utility or agency may employ apprentices in training for certification as
meter testers.
(a)
The apprentice period shall be a minimum of six (6) months, after which the
meter tester apprentice shall comply with subsection (5) of this section.
(b)
All tests performed during this period by an apprentice shall be witnessed by a
certified meter tester.
Section
18. Meter Test Records. (1)(a) A complete record of all meter tests and
adjustments and data sufficient to allow checking of test calculations shall be
recorded by the meter tester. The record shall include:
1.
Information to identify the unit and its location;
2.
Date of tests;
3.
Reason for the tests;
4.
Readings before and after test;
5.
Statement of "as found" and "as left" accuracies
sufficiently complete to permit checking of calculations employed;
6.
Notations showing that all required checks have been made;
7.
Statement of repairs made, if any;
8.
Identifying number of the meter;
9.
Type and capacity of the meter; and
10.
The meter constant.
(b)
The complete record of tests of each meter shall be continuous for at least two
(2) periodic test periods and shall in no case be less than two (2) years.
(2) Historical records.
(a) A utility shall keep numerically arranged and properly classified records
for each meter that it owns, uses, and inventories.
(b)
These records shall include:
1.
Identification number;
2.
Date of purchase;
3.
Name of manufacturer;
4.
Serial number;
5.
Type;
6.
Rating; and
7.
Name and address of each customer on whose premises the meter has been in
service with date of installation and removal.
(c)
These records shall also contain condensed information concerning all tests and
adjustments including dates and general results of the adjustments. The records
shall reflect the date of the last test and indicate the proper date for the
next periodic test required by the applicable commission administrative
regulation in 807 KAR Chapter 5.
(3)
Sealing of meters. Upon completion of adjustment and test of a meter pursuant
to 807 KAR Chapter 5, a utility shall affix to the meter a suitable seal in a
manner that adjustments or registration of the meter cannot be altered without
breaking the seal.
(4)
A utility may store the meter test and historical data described or required in
subsections (1) and (2) of this section in a computer storage and retrieval
system upon notification to the commission. If a utility elects to use a
computer storage and retrieval system, a back-up copy of the identical
information shall be retained.
Section
19. Request Tests. (1) A utility shall make a test of a meter upon written
request of a customer if the request is not made more frequently than once each
twelve (12) months.
(a)
The customer shall be given the opportunity to be present at the requested
test.
(b)
If the tests show the as-found meter accuracy is within the limits allowed by
807 KAR 5:022, Section 8(3)(a)1., 5:022, Section 8(3)(b)1., 5:041, Section
17(1), or 5:066, Section 15(4), the utility may make a reasonable charge for
the test.
(c)
The commission-approved amount of the charge shall be established in the utility's
filed tariff.
(d)
The utility shall maintain a meter removed from service for testing, in a
secure location under the utility’s control, for a period of six (6) months
from the date the customer is notified of the finding of the investigation and
the time frame the meter will be secured by the utility or if the customer has
filed a formal complaint pursuant to KRS 278.260, the meter shall be maintained
until the proceeding is resolved, or the meter is picked up for testing by
personnel from the commission’s Meter Standards Laboratory.
(2)
After having first obtained a test from the utility, a customer of the utility
may request a meter test by the commission upon written application.
(a)
The request shall not be made more frequently on one (1) meter than once each
twelve (12) months.
(b)
Upon request, personnel from the commission’s Meter Standards Laboratory shall
pick up the meter from the utility and maintain the meter for a minimum of six
(6) months from the date the customer is notified of the finding of the
investigation and the time frame the meter will be secured by the commission’s
Meter Standards Laboratory or if the customer has filed a formal complaint
pursuant to KRS 278.260, the meter shall be maintained until the proceeding is
resolved.
Section
20. Access to Property. The utility shall at all reasonable hours have access
to meters, service connections, and other property owned by it and located on
customer's premises for purposes of installation, maintenance, meter reading,
operation, replacement, or removal of its property. An employee of the utility
whose duties require him to enter the customer's premises shall wear a
distinguishing uniform or other insignia, identifying him as an employee of the
utility, and show a badge or other identification that shall identify him as an
employee of the utility.
Section
21. Pole Identification. (1) Each utility owning poles or other structures supporting
its wires shall mark every pole or structure located within a built-up
community with the initials or other distinguishing mark by which the owner of
every structure can be readily determined.
(2)
Identification marks may be of any type but shall be of a permanent material
and shall be easily read from the ground at a distance of six (6) feet from the
structure.
(3)
If a utility’s structures are located outside of a built-up community, at least
every tenth structure shall be marked as established in subsection (2) of this
section.
(4)
All junction structures shall bear the identification mark and structure number
of the owner.
(5)
Poles need not be marked if they are clearly and unmistakably identifiable as
the property of the utility.
(6)
A utility shall either number its structures and maintain a numbering system or
use some other method of identification so that each structure in the system
can be easily identified.
Section
22. Cable Television Pole Attachments and Conduit Use. (1) Each utility owning
poles or other facilities supporting its wires shall permit cable television
system operators who have all necessary licenses and permits to attach cables
to poles and to use facilities, as customers, for transmission of signals to
their patrons.
(2)
The tariffs of the utility shall establish the rates, terms, and conditions
under which the utility's facilities may be used.
(3)
With respect to a complaint before the commission in an individual matter
concerning cable television pole attachments, final action shall be taken on
the matter within a reasonable time, but no later than 360 days after filing of
the complaint.
Section
23. System Maps and Records. (1) Each utility shall have on file at its
principal office located within the state and shall file upon request with the
commission a map or maps of suitable scale of the general territory it serves
or holds itself ready to serve. The map or maps should be available preferably in
electronic format as a PDF file or as a digital geographic database. The following
data shall be available on the map or maps:
(a)
Operating districts;
(b)
Rate districts;
(c)
Communities served;
(d)
Location and size of transmission lines, distribution lines and service
connections;
(e)
Location and layout of all principal items of plant; and
(f)
Date of construction of all items of plant by year and month.
(2)
In each division or district office there shall be available information
relative to the utility's system that will enable the local representative to
furnish necessary information regarding the rendering of service to existing
and prospective customers.
(3)
In lieu of showing the above construction information in (1)(f) on maps, a card
record or suitable digital data may be used.
(a)
The construction data about a plant feature, such as a pipeline, may be stored
in a table and linked to the geographic plant feature by a unique identifier
that is present in both the table and the geographic database.
(b)
For all prospective construction the records shall also show the date of
construction by month and year.
Section
24. Location of Records. All records required by 807 KAR Chapter 5 shall be
kept in the office of the utility and shall be made available to
representatives, agents, or staff of the commission upon reasonable notice at
all reasonable hours.
Section
25. Safety Program. Each utility shall adopt and execute a safety program,
appropriate to the size and type of its operations. At a minimum, the safety
program shall:
(1)
Establish a safety manual with written guidelines for safe working practices
and procedures to be followed by utility employees;
(2)
Instruct employees in safe methods of performing their work. For electric
utilities, this is to include the standards established in 807 KAR 5:041,
Section 3; and
(3)
Instruct employees who, in the course of their work, are subject to the hazard
of electrical shock, asphyxiation, or drowning, in accepted methods of
artificial respiration.
Section
26. Inspection of Systems. (1) A utility shall adopt inspection procedures to
assure safe and adequate operation of the utility’s facilities and compliance
with KRS Chapter 278 and 807 KAR Chapter 5 and shall file these procedures with
the commission for review.
(2)
Upon receipt of a report of a potentially hazardous condition at a utility
facility, the utility shall inspect all portions of the system that are the
subject of the report.
(3)
Appropriate records shall be kept by a utility to identify the inspection made,
the date and time of inspection, the person conducting the inspection, deficiencies
found, and action taken to correct the deficiencies.
(4)
Electric utility inspection. An electric utility shall make systematic
inspections of its system in the manner established in this subsection to insure
that the commission's safety requirements are being met. These inspections
shall be made as often as necessary but not less frequently than established in
this subsection for various classes of facilities and types of inspection.
(a)
As a part of operating procedure, each utility shall continuously monitor and
inspect all production facilities regularly operated and manned.
(b)
At intervals not to exceed six (6) months, the utility shall inspect:
1.
Unmanned production facilities, including peaking units not on standby status,
and all monitoring devices, for evidence of abnormality;
2.
Transmission switching stations if the primary voltage is sixty-nine (69) KV or
greater, for damage to or deterioration of components including structures,
fences, gauges, and monitoring devices;
3.
Underground network transformers and network protectors in vaults located in
buildings or under sidewalks, for leaks, condition of case, connections,
temperature, and overloading; and
4.
Electric lines operating at sixty-nine (69) KV or greater, including
insulators, conductors, and supporting facilities, for damage, deterioration
and vegetation management consistent with the utility’s vegetation management
practices.
(c)
In addition to the requirements established in paragraph (b) of this subsection,
all electric lines operating at sixty-nine (69) KV or greater, including
insulators, conductors, and supporting facilities shall be inspected from the
ground for damage, deterioration, and vegetation management consistent with the
utility’s vegetation management practices at intervals not to exceed:
1.
Six (6) years for each electric line supported by a wood pole or other wood
support structure; or
2.
Twelve (12) years for each electric line supported by a pole or other support
structure constructed of steel or other nonwood material.
(d)
At intervals not to exceed one (1) year, the utility shall inspect:
1.
Production facilities maintained on a standby status. Except for remotely
controlled facilities, all production facilities shall also be thoroughly
inspected; and
2.
Distribution substations with primary voltage of fifteen (15) to sixty-nine
(69) KV.
(e)
At intervals not to exceed two (2) years, the utility shall inspect all
electric facilities operating at voltages of less than sixty-nine (69) KV, to
the point of service including insulators, conductors, meters, and supporting
facilities from the ground for damage, deterioration, and vegetation management
consistent with the utility’s vegetation management practices.
(f)
The utility shall inspect other facilities as follows:
1.
Utility buildings shall be inspected for compliance with safety codes at least
annually; and
2.
Construction equipment shall be inspected for defects, wear, and operational
hazards at least quarterly.
(g)
Aerial inspections shall not be used as the basis for compliance with
paragraphs (b)1. through 3., support facilities provisions in (b)4., (d)1., and
(f) of this subsection.
(5)
Gas utility inspection. A gas utility shall make systematic inspections of its
system to insure that the commission's safety requirements are being met. These
inspections shall be made as often as necessary but not less frequently than is
prescribed or recommended by the Department of Transportation, 49 C.F.R. Part 192
Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Federal Safety
Standards, for the various classes of facilities.
(a)
The following maximum time intervals shall be established for certain
inspections provided for in 49 C.F.R. Part 192 Transportation of Natural and
Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Federal Safety Standards, with respect to which
intervals are not specified, and for certain additional inspections not
provided for in the code.
1.
At intervals not to exceed every fifteen (15) months but at least once each
calendar year, the utility shall inspect and visually examine:
a.
Production wells, storage wells, and well equipment, including their exterior
components;
b.
Pressure limiting stations, relief devices, pressure regulating stations, and
vaults; and
c.
Accessibility of the curb box and valve on a service line.
2.
At intervals not to exceed three (3) years, gas meters shall be manually
inspected and visually examined for proper working condition.
3.
The utility shall inspect other facilities as follows:
a.
Utility buildings shall be inspected for compliance with safety codes at least
annually; and
b.
Construction equipment under the control of the utility shall be inspected for
defects, wear, and operational hazards at least quarterly.
(b)
At intervals not to exceed the periodic meter test intervals, individual
residential customer service regulators, vents, and relief valve vents shall be
checked for operable condition.
(c)
At intervals not to exceed the periodic meter test intervals, the curb box and
valve on the service line shall be inspected for operable condition.
(d)
Aerial inspections shall not be used as the basis for compliance with
paragraphs (a) through (c) of this subsection.
(6)
Water utility inspections. Each water utility shall make systematic inspections
of its system as established in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this subsection
to insure that the commission's safety requirements are being met. These
inspections shall be made as often as necessary but not less frequently than as
established in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this subsection for various classes
of facilities and types of inspection.
(a)
The utility shall annually inspect all structures pertaining to source of
supply for their safety and physical and structural integrity, including dams,
intakes, and traveling screens. The utility shall semiannually inspect supply
wells, their motors and structures, including electric power wiring and
controls for proper and safe operation;
(b)
The utility shall annually inspect all structures pertaining to purification
for their safety, physical and structural integrity, and for leaks, including
sedimentation basins, filters, and clear wells; chemical feed equipment;
pumping equipment and water storage facilities, including electric power wiring
and controls; and hydrants, mains, meters, meter settings and valves; and
(c) The utility shall
monthly inspect construction equipment and vehicles for defects, wear,
operational hazards, lubrication, and safety features.
(7)
Telephone utility inspection. Each telephone utility shall make systematic
inspections of its system as established in paragraphs (a) through (f) of this
subsection to insure that the commission's safety requirements are being met.
The inspections shall be made as often as necessary but not less frequently
than as established in paragraphs (a) through (f) of this subsection for
various classes of facilities and types of inspection.
(a)
The utility shall inspect aerial plant for electrical hazards, proper clearance
for electric clearances of facilities, vegetation management consistent with
the utility’s vegetation management practices, and climbing safety every two
(2) years;
(b)
The utility shall inspect underground plant for presence of gas, proper
clearance from electric facilities, and safe working conditions at least
annually;
(c)
The utility shall inspect utility-provided station equipment and connections
for external electrical hazards, damaged instruments or wiring, and appropriate
protection from lightning and safe location of equipment and wiring when on a
customer's premises;
(d)
The utility shall inspect utility buildings for compliance with safety codes at
least annually;
(e)
The utility shall inspect construction equipment for defects, wear, and
operational hazards at least quarterly; and
(f)
Aerial inspections shall not be used as the basis for compliance with this
subsection.
(8)
Sewage utility inspection. Each sewage utility shall make systematic
inspections of its system in the manner established in 807 KAR 5:071 to ensure
that the commission’s safety requirements are being met. The inspections shall
be made as often as necessary but not less frequently than established in 807
KAR 5:071.
Section 27. Reporting of
Accidents, Property Damage, or Loss of Service. (1) Within two (2) hours
following discovery each utility, other than a natural gas utility, shall
notify the commission by telephone or electronic mail of a utility related
accident that results in:
(a) Death or shock or burn
requiring medical treatment at a hospital or similar medical facility, or any
accident requiring inpatient overnight hospitalization;
(b)
Actual or potential property damage of $25,000 or more; or
(c)
Loss of service for four (4) or more hours to ten (10) percent or 500 or more
of the utility's customers, whichever is less.
(2)
A summary written report shall be submitted by the utility to the commission
within seven (7) calendar days of the utility related accident. For good cause
shown, the executive director of the commission, shall, upon application in
writing, allow a reasonable extension of time for submission of this report.
(3)
Natural gas utilities shall report utility related accidents in accordance with
the provisions of 807 KAR 5:027.
Section
28. Deviations from Administrative Regulation. In special cases, for good cause
shown, the commission shall permit deviations from this administrative
regulation.
Section
29. Incorporation by Reference. (1) The following material is incorporated by
reference:
(a)
Annual Financial and Statistical Reports:
1.
“FERC Form 1 – Annual Report of Major Electric Utilities, Licensees and
Others”, March 2007;
2.
“Annual Reporting Form for Rural Electric Cooperative Corporations”,
July 2012;
3. “FERC Form 2 – Annual Report of Major Natural Gas Companies”,
December 2007;
4. “Annual Reporting Form for Class C and D Gas Utilities”,
August 2005;
5. “Annual Reporting Form for Local Exchange Carriers”,
August 2005;
6. “Annual Reporting Form for Local Exchange Carriers – Kentucky
Operations Only”, August 2004;
7.
“Annual Reporting Form for Water Company – Class A & B”, July 2012;
8.
“Annual Reporting Form for Water Company – Class C”,
July 2012;
9. “Annual Reporting Form for Water
Districts/Water Associations – Class A & B”, July 2012;
10. “Annual Reporting Form for Water
Districts/Water Associations – Class C”, July 2012; and
11. “Annual Reporting Form for Sewer Utilities”, September
2005;
(b)
Quarterly Meter Reports:
1.
“Quarterly Meter Report-Electric”, August 2011;
2.
“Quarterly Meter Report-Water”, July 2012; and
3.
“Quarterly Meter Report-Gas”, July 2007;
(c)
Non-payment Disconnection/Reconnection Reports:
1.
“Water Utility-Non-Payment Disconnection/Reconnection Report”, February 2012;
2.
“Electric Utility-Non-Payment Disconnection/Reconnection Report”, September
2000; and
3.
“Gas Utility Non-Payment Disconnection/Reconnection Report” September 2000;
(d)
“Application for Appointment of Meter Testers”, August 2012; and
(e)
Gross Annual Operating Revenue Reports:
1.
“Report of Gross Operating Revenues Derived from Intra-Kentucky Business”,
December 2010;
2.
“Report of Gross Operating Revenues Derived from Intra-Kentucky Business
Electric Utilities”, October 2012;
3.
“Report of Gross Operating Revenues Derived from Intra-Kentucky Business Long
Distance Carriers and Operator Services”, September 2010;
4.
“Report of Gross Operating Revenues Derived from Intra-Kentucky Business Paging
and Cellular”, September 2010; and
5.
“Report of Gross Operating Revenues Derived from Intra-Kentucky Business Local
Exchange Carriers and Competitive Local Exchange Carriers”, September 2010.
(2)
This material may be inspected, copied, or obtained, subject to applicable
copyright law at the commission’s offices at 211 Sower Boulevard, Frankfort,
Kentucky 40601, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This material may
also be obtained at the commission’s Web site at http://psc.ky.gov. (8 Ky.R. 791; Am. 961; 1137; eff. 4-7-82; 9 Ky.R.
217; 473; eff. 8-25-82; 11 Ky.R. 790; 1048; eff. 1-7-85; 12 Ky.R. 967; 1343;
1510; eff. 2-4-86; 18 Ky.R. 1953; 2554; eff. 2-26-92; TAm eff. 8-9-2007; 295;
1015; 1136; eff. 1-4-2013; TAm 1-30-2013.)