§ 1 — Supervision by department of public utilities

Section 1. For purposes of this chapter, the term ''department'' shall refer to the department of public utilities. The department shall have supervision of facilities operated by steam distribution companies for the sole purpose of ensuring public safety and shall establish reasonable rules and regulations pertaining to the construction and operation of steam distribution facilities and equipment used in manufacturing and transporting steam. The department shall keep itself informed as to the methods, practices, and condition of all facilities and equipment associated with the distribution of steam, including ducts and conduits, and shall make such examinations and investigations of the steam distribution system as necessary, including the adequacy of operation, maintenance and capital improvements to insure safe operation of facilities operated by a steam distribution company.