[Smokin' Joe]

What wonderful examples. In the first, Oil companies do not develop oil and gas prospects because no way exists to get the product to market.

Why does no pipeline exist? (HINT: ECOWHACKOS)

In the second, a refinery shuts down units for maintenance and safety inspections. Why? Because it is far cheaper to shut down units on a scheduled basis for inspection and maintenance than replace them when they burn down.

Malicious intent? Hardly.

[southlake_hoosier]

There are other ways of moving product that already exist.

And yes, I would think that a call from the Whitehouse to help out should be answered.

[houeto]

In the second, a refinery shuts down units for maintenance and safety inspections. Why? Because it is far cheaper to shut down units on a scheduled basis for inspection and maintenance than replace them when they burn down.

The refineries in this country are 'governed' by OSHA's Process Safety Management standard. (PSM) CFR 49 1910.119. Even Cheney calling BP for a favor would do no good. Their maintenance activities must be strictly adhered to.

PSM is the most comprehensive piece of legislation ever handed down by OSHA. It took the industry years to get in full compliance.