“We were lucky” with the Martinez refinery fire

A fire in Martinez Refining Company on February 1 has released chemicals that can cause cancer and heart and lung diseases, but strong winds have pushed most of the dangerous smoke far from populated areas, according to health services County Costa County.

In a statement, the health manager of the County Costa County, Dr. Ori Tzveli, revealed Tuesday how lucky the community of Martinez was this afternoon and how close the fire of the refinery was to become A public health crisis after a hydrocarbon leak led to plumies 200 feet high smoke which could be seen on miles around the Martinez refinery.

“It could have been much worse,” said Tzvieli. “We were lucky this time. But our community should not have to count on luck. »»

At 1:30 p.m. on February 1, workers in the refinery had opened the planned maintenance equipment of a processing unit which had been closed earlier in the week they felt gas. A hydrocarbon leakage of the equipment has ignited. Six refinery workers were evaluated by medical and released medical staff.

“Air quality measures taken by Hazmat’s staff of Contra Costa Health during the incident showed that the concentrations of chemicals in the air during the event were mainly lower than the threshold considered as dangerous “, according to the agency.

There was a brief period when the smoke of the fire remained closer to the ground and that the measurements of dangerous particles – including benzene, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide and xylene – were measured At a high level, said the agency. Health officials believe that the brief period of high levels should not have a significant impact on public health.

Another incident update is expected in March as part of a 30 -day tracking report, as filled by Contra Costa County Health. The county hires an independent company to analyze deep causes to determine why the accident occurred and how future incidents can be prevented in the future.

The supervisor of the County Costa County, Shanelle Scales-Preston, said that she was concerned about the release of chemicals and combustion by-products on the health of her district, which includes the area around the refinery.

“I will work to make sure that all the reports and analyzes carried out by or under contract by MRC, CCH and the air district are released entirely and quickly,” said Scales-Preston. “My absolute priority continues to be the health and safety of the community.”