The Department of Environment says it is still too soon to say what caused the October 8 explosion and fire at the Irving Oil Refinery in Saint John.
Spokesperson Anthony Doiron said the department has reviewed a detailed report into the incident, submitted by Irving Oil, and is satisfied with the mitigation and assessment efforts so far.
“Ambient air quality monitoring in the surrounding area did not indicate any air quality concerns throughout the incident as the plume from the fire dispersed well in the direction of the Bay,” Doiron said in a statement.
“Some additional monitoring still needs to be done in regard to residual traces of volatile organic compounds in the area of the incident.”
Irving Oil yet to complete full investigation
Doiron said there is also no indication the nearby Little River was affected by the incident.
“Once the investigation is completed by Irving Oil, the department will expect a report containing details on the known or suspect cause(s) of the incident and what measures have or will be implemented to prevent a recurrence,” he said.
Irving Oil has said they believe the explosion was caused by a malfunction in a diesel-treating unit, which removes sulfur from diesel.
As many as 3,000 workers were on site at the time of the incident and a handful were treated in hospital for minor injuries.
Story by Brad Perry
Twitter: @BradMPerry
Email: perry.brad@radioabl.ca
(Photo Joe Comeau/submitted)
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