California County Performs Unannounced Inspection at PBF's Martinez Refinery

Health authorities in California's Contra Costa County have unexpectedly initiated an inspection at PBF Energy's refinery located in Martinez. The refinery, with a daily processing capacity of 156,400 barrels, has been placed under unscheduled scrutiny. This unexpected audit is primarily focused on requesting records and meticulously observing the refinery's operations, with a particular emphasis on safety programs and the reliability of its equipment.

The surprise inspection comes amidst growing concerns over several recent accidents at the facility, including incidents involving the release of petroleum coke dust in October and July. Furthermore, an ongoing investigation by the Department of Justice is underway relating to a November 2022 release involving a powdery substance that was later identified as spent catalysts.

As a result of the refinery's history of chemical spills and other incidents, PBF Energy is mandated by the county's industrial safety ordinance to accommodate on-site inspections. This requirement stipulates that inspectors are granted unrestricted access to the facility, along with all corporate records.

A statement from Contra Costa Health reveals a concerning track record for the refinery. In the current year alone, there have been 21 documented releases or spills of hazardous materials at PBF. Additionally, the refinery reported flaring incidents occurring at a rate of nearly one per week throughout the year.

The regulatory inspection, which involves staff from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, will undertake a comprehensive review of records. These records pertain to the deferred maintenance of equipment, workplace safety programs and training, and policies and procedures associated with emergency response and community notification.

Field verification activities will also form a pivotal part of the inspection process. This will ensure a thorough assessment of the refinery's operations and its adherence to safety protocols.

Earlier this month, Contra Costa Health issued an advisory following the detection of a noticeable odor emanating from the refinery. Individuals, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities, were advised to remain indoors with doors and windows closed if the odor was present in their vicinity.

The sudden inspection underscores the unwavering commitment of the authorities to ensure the safety and compliance of industrial facilities, especially those with a history of incidents. The involvement of various regulatory bodies and health agencies in this process reflects a comprehensive approach aimed at addressing potential risks and safeguarding the well-being of the community.

This unexpected inspection serves as a stern reminder to industrial facilities about the importance of adhering to safety protocols and maintaining reliable equipment. The authorities' proactive approach in conducting surprise inspections emphasizes their dedication to ensuring that such facilities operate within the boundaries of the law and prioritize the safety of their workers and the surrounding community.

As the inspection progresses, it will be crucial for PBF Energy to cooperate fully with the inspectors. This involves providing them with unrestricted access to all necessary records and the facility itself. The findings from this inspection will undoubtedly provide valuable insights into the operations of the refinery and its adherence to safety programs.

The surprise inspection at PBF Energy's refinery in Martinez is a clear testament to the authorities' unwavering commitment to uphold industrial safety standards. By addressing potential risks and implementing measures to prevent future incidents, the authorities are taking significant strides towards safeguarding the well-being of the community. The inspection further highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the operations of industrial facilities.