What are the responsibilities of a utility company in regards to construction and maintenance?

In Washington, utility companies have several responsibilities when it comes to construction and maintenance. First, utility companies must obtain permits from local, county, and state governments before constructing any new income-producing projects. This includes any new electric lines, pipelines, water lines, or other infrastructure necessary to provide utility services. Utility companies are also responsible for performing routine maintenance on existing infrastructure and replacing old or malfunctioning equipment as necessary. This includes inspecting and repairing existing power lines, pipelines, and other infrastructure. They must also ensure that any new construction projects meet safety standards and comply with state and local laws. Additionally, utility companies are responsible for maintaining safe working environments for their employees and contractors. This includes providing proper safety equipment, such as hardhats, gloves, and protective eyewear, and ensuring that proper safety protocols are followed at all times. Finally, utility companies in Washington must ensure that their services are available and reliable for their customers. This includes responding to outages quickly and efficiently and providing accurate billing information. They must also provide timely customer service and answer any customer inquiries or complaints. These responsibilities help to ensure that utility customers receive quality service and that utility companies provide safe and reliable services to the public.

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