WorkSafe Investigates Geelong Refinery Fire Over Alleged Faulty Valve
WorkSafe Victoria is investigating a major fire at a Geelong oil refinery, focusing on reports that a valve was months overdue for scheduled servicing.
The following is an abridgement of an article originally published by NSCA Foundation.
Incident Summary
Fire Rescue Victoria crews responded to reports of explosions and a fire at a Geelong oil refinery in Corio just before midnight on 15 April. According to the NSCA Foundation, the blaze originated in the facility's Alkylation unit and was brought under control by midday the following day, with no worker injuries reported.
Investigation Details
WorkSafe Victoria Chief Health and Safety Officer Sam Jenkin confirmed that inspectors and major hazard facility specialists were deployed to support lead agencies. WorkSafe stated that reports of a faulty valve, allegedly months overdue for scheduled servicing, will form a central part of its investigation into the cause of the fire.
Operational Impact
Following the incident, the facility operated at approximately 60 per cent petrol capacity and 80 per cent diesel and jet fuel capacity. The operating company indicated expectations to restore production to over 90 per cent across all fuel types in the coming weeks, subject to plant inspection. The NSCA Foundation noted that the incident carries national fuel security implications, as Australia currently has only two operational oil refineries.
