Fears after oil fire

Wednesday, April 29, 1992 - 10:00

By Liam Mitchell

ADELAIDE - Fears have been raised that a fire at the Port Stanvac oil refinery in southern Adelaide on April 10 may have emitted toxic gases, polluting surrounding suburbs and residential areas.

The Noarlunga City Council, which covers the area, has called for a report from Mobil, which runs the refinery, including possible risks to the community from operation of the refinery.

Council spokesperson Chris Catt said, "We're seeking information whether there were any toxic emissions as a result of the fire. We need to be aware of all the factors. It was a big pall of smoke, and we know there were droplets of oil in it.

"There is the potential for some pretty dangerous activity, and we need some answers so we can better understand the refinery's operations."

The fire, caused by equipment failure, sent a massive cloud of black smoke and fireballs into the air, visible up to 50 km away.n

From GLW issue 53