Worker drilled into a pipeline designated for nitrogen service
Newfoundland and Labrador's workplace safety watchdog has confirmed the deployment of officers to the Come By Chance refinery following an incident that occurred on Tuesday at the Placentia Bay facility.
Braya Renewable Fuels, the company responsible for the refinery, has stated that an internal review is currently underway. The incident involved a worker drilling a test hole in a "repurposed line that has been in nitrogen service for several months."
Nitrogen is commonly used in the oil and gas industry to prevent fire and explosion hazards, particularly for flushing pipelines and tanks.
Refinery manager Paul Burton issued a statement to CBC News indicating the line was tested after the drilling, revealing "a small amount of hydrocarbon gas initially detected inside the pipe." However, testing conducted outside the pipe showed no leakage of hydrocarbons.
Burton clarified the line was not in service or under pressure at the time of the incident. Nevertheless, he emphasized the importance of conducting an internal analysis and sharing the findings with employees and the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) division. He reaffirmed the company's commitment to prioritizing the safety and security of workers at the site.
The OHS division of Digital Government and Service NL also issued a statement to CBC News confirming it is aware of a "near-miss incident" at the refinery. As the investigation is ongoing, no further details have been released, and a stop work order has not been issued.
Glen Nolan, the president of United Steelworkers Local 9316, expressed his intention to investigate the situation. However, due to the ongoing investigation, he refrained from providing any comments. Local 9316 represents hundreds of workers employed at the site.
This recent incident adds to the list of safety-related concerns at the Come By Chance refinery. In September 2022, a flash fire at the refinery resulted in serious injuries to eight workers, one of whom, 47-year-old Shawn Peddle, tragically passed away in the hospital six weeks later.
A criminal negligence probe into the explosion was initiated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in January, focusing on potential charges of criminal negligence causing death and bodily harm.
In late 2021, Cresta Fund Management, a U.S.-based private equity firm, acquired a majority stake in the refinery. They announced plans to convert it from fossil fuels to biofuels and renamed it Braya Renewable Fuels.
