An explosion occurred when employees were attempting to isolate a leak on a condensate line between the natural gas liquid (NGL) plant and the refinery. Three crude units were damaged and two reformers were destroyed. The fire was extinguished approximately nine hours after the initial explosion. Five people were killed and 50 others were injured. The initial investigation into the loss indicated a lack of inspection and maintenance of the condensate line, which was not owned by the refinery. A lack of clear understanding of the ownership of the line is thought to have delayed the isolation of it.

[ Property Damage $412 Million. Estimated Current Value $718 Million ]

KEY ISSUES:
• Ownership and responsibility for equipment should be understood
• Third party interfaces must be managed
• Quality maintenance and inspection regimes are critical for plant integrity

Image credit: KNPC