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plumes of black smoke into the sky and endangering a surrounding tank farm.
Eleven hours after the huge fire ignited, emergency officials deemed it to be "effectively out" and under control after fire-fighters used a blanket of foam to smother the blaze, Tulsa Fire Capt. Larry Bowles said.
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Fire crews planned to monitor the remains overnight for any flare-ups of the 87-octane fuel from beneath the foam layer. No injuries were reported as a result of the fire, which was caused by a bolt of lightning that struck just after 9 a.m. at Explorer Pipeline's Glenpool terminal, officials said. Members of five families evacuated their homes just east of U.S. 75 between 121st and 131st streets, as a precautionary measure, officials said.
Travis Meyer, meteorologist for KOTV, channel 6, was looking out the window at his Glenpool ranch, lamenting the lack of rain, when the bolt of lightning pounded a tank less than one-eighth of a mile away. "It was one of those that kind of blinds you," said Meyer, who evacuated his family of six to a hotel. "One minute I'm looking at a (petroleum) tank, the next minute I'm looking at a fire." He later returned to retrieve some personal items and commented that "the heat coming off this fire is incredible." The Glenpool facility is part of a network of Explorer tank farms that send petroleum products from the Texas Gulf Coast to the Chicago area, said John Godfrey, the company's pipeline integrity administrator. The blaze initially burned straight upward through the coneshaped steel roof of the tank. But the fiery drama heightened about 11 a.m., when an upper portion of the tank's north side buckled, allowing for some of the gasoline to spill out into a huge dike surrounding the tank and ignite there. The flames greatly intensified, shooting up to 200 feet and more in the air as emergency officials scrambled to move fire fighters and others from near the fire scene. The fire did not spread, however, even as winds grew stronger and rain fell on multiple occasions at the site, where Explorer can store about 3 million barrels of oil in more than 30 tanks.
Three unmanned fire hoses installed at the facility shot water at the sides of the tank, cooling it in an effort to maintain the tank's structural integrity and avoid further collapse. Fire fighters from Glenpool, Jenks, Bixby and Tulsa battled the blaze, as well as workers from Sun Refinery and Williams Fire Control of Beaumont, Texas, in the foam effort. For Meyer, the scene was eerily reminiscent of the April 2003 Conoco-Phillips Co. tank farm fire, a site adjacent to Explorer's, where static electricity caused fires that burned for more than 20 hours near his home and he was forced to evacuate. "After last time, I don't trust it, and I said, 'Let's get out of here,' " he said of his voluntary move.
The earthen dam worked as designed, Godfrey said, containing the overflow from the 48-foot tall tank, which was nearly full with about 125,000 barrels of liquid. The dike for this tank is capable of holding up to 230,000 barrels, Godfrey said. "If it was going to happen, this was the tank for it," added Bowles, stressing that this dike contained one tank, while others at the facility held up to three tanks.
Explorer's pipeline was shut down for a couple of hours as a precaution, Godfrey said, but petroleum began flowing again after the wall collapse. Explorer began pumping out fuel - from the tank's bottom, below the blaze - at a rate of 30,000 barrels an hour, with about 19,000 barrels reportedly moving through the pipeline and bound for the St. Louis area. The other 11,000 barrels were being transferred to another tank at the facility, Godfrey said, lowering the fuel level below the collapsed area. About 30,000 barrels of petroleum remained inside when the transfer stopped, officials said.
The temperature of the fuel rose as the fire line lowered in the tank, Godfrey said, forcing the stoppage and mandating the foam extinguishment. Swirling, gusting winds pushed the smoke plume in every direction during the day, offending those with upper respiratory issues throughout south Tulsa County. For much of the morning, a smoky rainbow formed over U.S. 75, where the tank farm is located on the east side of the highway at about 126th Street. Highway traffic moved slowly throughout the day as smoke billowed thousands of feet into the air. Motorists gawked at the sight and swerved to road shoulders between 121st and 131st streets to record the event with video cameras. Smoke could be seen up to 20 miles away from the site. Fireballs were visible on U.S. 75 from eight miles away. Susan Todd was standing outside a home in the Coal Creek Landing addition, about a halfmile north of the tank farm, when she saw a bolt of lightning strike the tank. "There was this big 'boom' and flames shot out, and I said 'uh-oh,' " Todd said. Hours later, she was not concerned about the fire, of which she had a brilliant and frightening view. The smoke, however, was a different matter. "The worst damage, other than for the people who own the tank, is for the birds and people who have to breathe that in," she said of the odour. "I might leave and go stay with family until this is
all done, because I don't want to breathe this in all night long." Buddy Lindsey was on his way to a class at Tulsa Community College when he saw the initial explosion from U.S. 75, describing it as a mushroom cloud filled with flames. Lindsey said the explosion sounded like a "hollow clap of thunder."
Glenpool officials went door-to-door near the tank farm, notifying residents of the fire conditions, City Manager John Rogers said. The American Red Cross set up at Glenpool High School, serving food to a couple of affected families and about 120 emergency workers, spokeswoman Nellie Kelly of the Tulsa chapter said. Explorer Pipeline officials had made no estimate on the company's losses, Godfrey said. As for the nearby residents, "Explorer is going to take care of the people affected by this," Godfrey said. "We're going to do the right thing for the community." http://www.tulsaworld.com/NewsStor y.asp?ID=060613_Ne_A1_Light75563
Press Releases
Premier Group announces agreement with FAFNIR
The Premier Group of Companies is pleased to announce that an Agreement has now been reached with the innovative German manufacturer, FAFNIR, for the sale and distribution of their forecourt related product range in the UK.
FAFNIR is a Sensor Manufacturer, who has been developing and producing products for the Oil, Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Food Industries for over 40 years.
The FAFNIR range of equipment includes a foolproof electronic overfill prevention system which can be combined with a “nomix” function to avoid mis-fuelling and Product Cocktails on site. In addition to a number of environmental Sensors FAFNIR is now providing a reliable high quality Oil Separator Alarm System to help the Industry avoid possible environmental accidents. The System is able to communicate with a Site Management System or directly with a Service Provider.
Whilst these products will be impressive performers in the UK for FAFNIR and for The Premier Group, it is the FAFNIR “VISY” Automatic Tank Gauge which has excited the Management Team most. Utilising magnetostrictive technology this gauge is extremely reliable and links to most modern POS and management systems.
Acomprehensive communications ability and a range of usage options have convinced the Premier Group to select this product rather than the recently launched Acusonic Gauge which attracted considerable interest at the IFFE.
Ken Owen, Group Managing Director, commented, “It might be a little embarrassing to be seen to change allegiance at this late stage, but the technical performance and flexibility of this gauge, coupled with a competitive price, made this decision impossible to avoid.”
Capable of supporting up to 16 tanks with one VISYcontroller and already able to handle the very latest advances in fuel grades and additives, without the need for probe alterations, this is an attractive and viable alternative for the Forecourt market. More and more Major Oil Companies and Independent Fuel Distributors rely on FAFNIR’s VISY System to improve their Logistics and to reduce fuel losses.
Steve Devine, General Manager of Roncol Services and a Director of the Group, said, “I think that the cooperation with FAFNIR will assist the Premier Group to strengthen the relationship with their clients. The latest FAFNIR VISY development, to communicate wirelessly with the Management System, will enable the Retail and Commercial Fuel Industries to roll out electronic Tank Gauging to all their Sites, including the ones without underground wiring.”
Pictured are Ken Owen and Steve Devine with Wolfgang Pein and a representation of the Dragon Fafnir (from Nordic mythology).
Irishman, Brendan Kavanagh, appointed Head of Torex Retail's Worldwide Petroleum and Convenience Division
The Board of Torex PLC, Europe’s leading supplier of technical solutions and services to the petroleum and convenience industry, has appointed Brendan Kavanagh as Head of its Petroleum & Convenience Division Worldwide
Brendan has over 22 years of experience internationally in this specific area; working not only in the private sector with the Retail Petroleum Solutions Group of companies acquired by Torex Retail last August, but also in the corporate sector with companies such as Schlumberger PLC & Tokheim Corporation. Brendan takes responsibility for the development of Petroleum & Convenience unique offer to major oil companies, hypermarkets and dealers alike.
Shell International Petroleum Company and Franklin Fueling Systems sign global supply agreement
Franklin Fueling Systems announces that it has been selected by Shell International Petroleum Company as the exclusive provider of submersible pumping systems for Shell locations globally
Under the agreement, Franklin Fueling Systems will fulfill Shell’s global requirements for the next three years with FE Petro submersible pumping
products. This extends the previous three year exclusive agreement between the companies for submersible pumping products. “We are fortunate to have a partnership with a progressive marketer like Shell International. Franklin Fueling Systems has worked hard to bring leading technology to the marketplace, as well as building a strong global distribution and service network. This agreement is evidence that our strong commitment to products and services is recognised by Shell International, and we are excited to continue as their global submersible pumping products supplier,” said Don Kenney, President and COO for Franklin Fueling Systems.
Suresite expands management team
Suresite Limited has recently appointed Keith Gater as Business Development Manager.
Keith has 20 years experience in the forecourt industry mainly with ConocoPhillips (Jet) where he had roles ranging from site management to dealer support services.
Suresite M.D. Geoff Oldham says, “Keith’s appointment represents the start of extensive plans which will see Suresite maintain it pre-eminent position in the risk management arena and expand into new markets”.
Ian Taylor says fond farewell to Hytek
Hytek founding partner, Ian Taylor has officially announced his retirement from the business.
Ian and joint managing director, Kevin Arnold, founded Elsenham based Hytek, which recently celebrated 20 years in business, on 1st August 1985.
The firm has grown from just two staff in 1985 to 28 in 2006. Hytek launched with just one product; a commercial fuel pump called the 109 which was used in the haulage industry. Hytek now supplies a wide range of fuel and lubrication equipment throughout the oil heating and fuel industries.
Ian has always been an active member of our industry and has many notable achievements to his name. He has been involved with the APEAsince 1993, serving two consecutive years as Chairman, Ian is also a Fellow of the organisation. He has also been a serving member of several European committees, taking part in agreeing the various standards for petroleum storage and dispensing systems.
Ian says: “During my thoroughly enjoyable 20 years with Hytek I have seen a great deal of change within the industry, including the introduction of lead-free petrol, alternative fuels and more computerisation. With every one, Hytek also had to change as a company to adopt and maximize on these developments.
Looking forward to his retirement, Ian says he plans to do “as much of nothing as possible.” Although the inside word is that he has a lot to keep him occupied with an old manor house. Ian says: “Word has it that it was once owned by Capability Brown, although he did not do as much to the garden as you might expect, so I will have plenty to keep me busy!”
Following Ian’s retirement, Kevin Arnold continues in his role of managing director, assuming full responsibility for the day to day running of the business. He will be supported by sales director Andy Seal, who himself has been with Hytek for 18 years and was made a director of the business in January 2005.
Kevin Arnold says: “I would like to take the opportunity to wish Ian a very happy retirement from everyone at Hytek. He deserves it! Hytek will of course stay true to its values and continue to build a team who are committed to our customers. I am now looking forward to the next 20 years of successful trading in the industry.”
Hytek can be found online at www.hytekgb.com
Editors Note: I am sure you will all join me in wishing Ian a long and healthy retirement.
Hytek ups UPP product range to 32mm
Fuel equipment specialist, Hytek, has launched a new range of 32mm semi flexible UPPpipe which brings the quality of UPPto brand new markets.
This new range of pipes and fittings has been designed especially for the Fuel Oil Generator Systems (FOGS) and heating oil transfer markets. Products include new 32mm UPPExtra and 32mm UPPCo-axial Secondary Containment systems.
UPPsecondary contained pipework system is ideal for carrying diesel, gasoil and petrol in underground applications. The pipework is lightweight, flexible, non metallic and has a 15 year manufacturers guarantee. Electrofusion welding of pipes and fittings creates a pipe system that is strong, flexible and easy to install.
As recommended in the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001, the Secondary Containment (S/C) system features a coaxial sleeve pipe which is pre-fitted over UPPextra primary pipe enabling all fuel and oil lines to be installed with an uninterrupted interstitial space between each end of the pipe with leak detection connections if required. This pipe is ideal for use where
environmental security is paramount. Typical installations would be: emergency generator feeds, commercial boilers feeds, storage tank fill and suction and pressure pipes.
UPPextra lined is the primary pipe used in the UPPS/C system and features a tough, specially bonded nylon liner. It is produced in either straight lengths or coils. This pipe is typically used for suction and fill lines or on applications where environmental security is not paramount.
All UPPpipework is tested to Institute of Petroleum, ULand OFTEC approvals and exceeds current legislation and standards. Over 6 million metres of UPPpipe has been successfully installed worldwide over the past 24 years with not one reported product failure.
Afull range of fittings is available for both 32mm UPPExtra and 32mm Secondary Contained pipe systems. These include welding couplers, elbows, tees, reducers and end caps.
Termination options for UPPExtra primary include a union flange adaptor, a stub flange assembly and 1” male bspt threaded compression termination which does not require a welder for installation.
Hytek offer full system design facilities, free system installation training and technical support.
Hytek can be found online at www.hytekgb.com
E&S Environmental Services Ltd purchases PSL (Yorks) Ltd
E&S, the Oxfordshire based specialists in diagnostic tank testing, has completed the purchase of PSL (Yorks) Ltd of Selby as a step in its planned expansion into the Road Tanker Vehicle Testing market.
The contracts were signed late on Friday 14th July 2006 with the former field based technicians of PSL transferring, together with the company’s assets, goodwill and customer list. The Selby office is closed with the business moved to E&S’s Brize Norton base.
Customers can be assured of E&S’s commitment to providing a first class service through the same skilled and experienced technicians and using the same testing protocols and documentation. The company take a pro-active approach to customer needs with a positive ‘can do’attitude that has brought success to its core business of tank, line and VR testing.
Afull vehicle test will be provided at clients premises covering The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations (CDG 2004), the new name for what was know as Reg. 11, to include a ‘leakproofness’test. Under new regulations only independent companies who have applied for or have received UKAS accreditation will be allowed to undertake such testing.
Nobby Clarke said “these are exciting times for our company which has expanded successfully over recent years. The acquisition of PSLhas accelerated our planned entry into the road tanker vehicle testing market, which is a natural extension to our core business. We are delighted to welcome their former technicians into the business and to provide fleet operators with a first class service backed by our strong management team.”
Contact: Nobby or Andrew Clarke E&S Environmental Services Ltd Unit 14, Viscount Court Ind Est Brize Norton, Oxon. OX18 3QQ Tel: 01993 852419 Fax: 01993 852152 Email: nobby@eandspumps.co.uk
FPS welcomes suspension of duty rise on red diesel
FPS welcomes the Treasury’s recent announcement that all fuel duty increases due to come into effect on 1 September have been put on hold. In previous duty suspensions, red diesel has been excluded and so the duty it carries has increased disproportionably.
FPS has been a lone voice in its campaign to prevent any further excessive rises in duty on red diesel. These rises impact particularly harshly on the agricultural community and on rural communities in general, where there is no access to the natural gas network, as well as plant hire and construction companies.
Since July 1997, duty on red diesel has risen by a massive 150% compared with a rise on road diesel duty over the same period of only 2fi%. The September increase, had it not been suspended, would have taken the rise in red diesel duty since 1997 to a mammoth 198%.
FPS is convinced that this disproportionate rise is because the Chancellor views it as an easy target and unlikely to result in public protests, even though the amount of revenue it raises is minuscule compared with revenue from road fuels.
Susan Hancock, Chief Executive of the Federation of Petroleum Suppliers, said, “We are delighted that the Chancellor has listened to our pleas for no further pressure on red diesel users. However, the Federation of Petroleum Suppliers will be continuing its campaign for future red diesel duty increases to revert to the same percentage as those on road fuels.
“High crude prices have already increased prices of red diesel to end users, to the point where it will affect the economy of rural communities and niche industry markets that use the fuel and, in terms of the Government’s pollution reduction targets, red diesel consumption is insignificant compared with road fuels and so has minimal overall environmental impact."
NOTES
Note 1 The duty on red diesel has increased from 2.58p per litre in July 1997 to 6.44p per litre in December 2005. The March 2006 Budget announced a further increase to 7.69p from 1 September 2006, which has now been suspended.
Note 2 In addition to excise duty, VATis charged on red diesel. VATis also charged on the excise duty element.
Note 3 Red diesel, also termed ‘gas oil’, is a vital fuel for the agricultural industry. It is also used in industry, construction and commerce and powers diesel rail traffic. DTI’s provisional figure for UK inland consumption of red diesel for 2005 is 6.427 million tonnes, compared with 38.167 million tonnes of road fuel.
Media enquiries to:
Federation of Petroleum Suppliers Ltd Rod Prowse, Media Representative Office 01295 264544, Mobile 07770 575940 Email rodprowse@tiscali.co.uk.
UK, Fire at Buncefield
(Re-printed from APEABulletin Volume 23 Issue No:1 Dated January 1985)
Hemel Hempstead Magistrates Court heard the permit to work certificate used by a major oil company at one of its large petroleum installations described as “not worth the paper it was written on”!
The Court was hearing evidence from a Senior Chemical Inspector of the HSE in a case brought against the Mobil Oil Company by Hertfordshire County Council following a fire that occurred in the Buncefield Oil Terminal. He continued that the hot-work certificates used were not even in accordance with the industry’s own standard, as laid down in the IPMarketing Safety Code. The company faced four charges of failure to comply with licensing conditions.
In June 1984, whilst contractors were inside a bund at the terminal carrying out alterations to pipework, there was a spillage of petrol in the bund followed by a fire. Prompt response and action by the fire brigade controlled the fire within 13 minutes, preventing a major disaster.
Investigation revealed that although for this work one item of hot-work had been authorised in a comparatively safe area, this had not been carried out in the area specified. Furthermore, other, un-permitted hot-work had been carried out within the bund in the immediate area of two petrol pipelines. The pipework under alteration, although supposedly dry, contained petrol leaking via a valve on the tank. This had spilled into the bund from a loosely bolted flange and an open drain connection. Vapour was also issuing from an open flange. The bund area had been wetted with water prior to the work, allowing the spilled petrol to float on top.
The fire brigade found that although the generator of an arc welding set was outside the bund, the leads from it were lying inside, close to the fire area. Evidence was received that the leads were lying “apart” (on wet ground) with the generator running prior to the fire. While it was not possible to ascertain the actual source if ignition, it was considered that the most likely cause was an arc from these live leads.
The four counts the company faced were – failing to maintain the main tank valve, failing to take due precautions to prevent fire and explosion, failing to maintain a safe area after issuing a hotwork permit and failing to give notice in writing of intention to make alterations. On all but the last count the company pleaded not guilty, claiming that there was no evidence to prove that the valve was defective or not maintained, that the company had taken reasonable precautions and the hot-work certificates were not a requirement of licence but a “permissive” condition which could not be breached in law.
During the case, the court heard that for the alteration work there was little effective liaison between the company and the contractors, safety matters being handled purely in verbal discussions. No explosiometers were used on site, the man detailed to issue the hot-work certificates had no training or experience in this work and the company’s own safety regulations were only vaguely understood and were not followed.
The court found all the cases proved and imposed fines totalling £5,500 with £500 towards costs.
UK, Buncefield major incident investigation board publishes its initial report
July 13 2006 - The Buncefield Major Incident Investigation Board (MIIB) has published its Initial Report. This report summarises information from three previously published progress reports on the continuing investigation into the explosions and fires at the Buncefield Oil Depot in Hemel Hempstead, on 11 December 2005. More importantly, it draws broad conclusions about the need for action in three key areas.
The Health and Safety Commission and the Board of the Environment Agency have received this report and endorsed its publication. Lord Newton, the Chairman of the Buncefield Investigation Board said: "Though knowledge of this major incident is still incomplete, the Board is in a position to identify three main issues arising from it. These are the design and operation of fuel and oil storage depots; the emergency response to incidents; and advice to planning authorities on developments round such sites. We believe these areas, together with our examination of the HSE's and the Environment Agency's roles in regulating the activities on the Buncefield site, will form the main scope of our further work." In relation to the design and operation of storage sites, the Buncefield incident involved failures to contain fuel at three levels. The paramount need is to ensure the integrity of the primary means of containment, ie confining the fuel to the tanks, pipes and vessels designed to hold it. This does not however lessen the need for effective secondary and tertiary containment (mainly bunds and drains) that prevent pollutants, especially fuel and the water used for fire fighting, from escaping the site and contaminating the environment.
Overall, the Board were very impressed with the emergency response to the incident, highlighting the importance of effective emergency arrangements. There are a number of reviews into the effectiveness of the emergency response to Buncefield being carried out by the agencies concerned and this provides an important opportunity to learn lessons and bring about improvements in emergency preparedness of countrywide resilience groups.
The Buncefield incident has posed fundamental questions about residential and commercial developments around sites like Buncefield. Continuing uncertainty in this area creates serious problems for local communities, particularly those directly affected by the Buncefield incident. This is a complex issue requiring a balance to be made between the risks and benefits of development. The Board intends to address these issues more fully once the preliminary conclusions of the HSE's current review of its advice to planning authorities are known.
Lord Newton, the Chairman of the Buncefield Major Investigation Board continued: "The Board will continue to ensure that information on the on-going investigation is made publicly available, either through its own reports or via the HSE and Environment Agency, where it is necessary to ensure continued safety. At the same time we must preserve the integrity of any future criminal proceedings that might be brought by the relevant enforcing authorities."
Taf Powell, the Investigation Manager said: "Work on the investigation continues to ensure that all reasonable lines of enquiry are followed. Evidence continues to be gathered from different sources and the emerging information contributes to a greater understanding of the underlying root causes. This allows the investigation team to refine its enquiries further and to bring into
focus elements such as wider management systems and organisational factors. He continued: "Almost all the plant and equipment required for forensic examination has been recovered from the Buncefield site, which will allow the operators to demolish buildings, tanks and bunds. However, further investigation work will be carried out on the integrity of the floors of the bunds together with environmental monitoring of the ground underneath, in particular where tanks were located."
To view the 'Initial Report' visit the Buncefield Investigation website at: http://www.buncefieldinvestigation.gov.uk
UK, Safety alert to operators of “Comah” oil/fuel storage sites & others storing hazardous substances in large tanks
The following Safety Alert is primarily for the attention of those companies operating oil/fuel storage facilities.
However, it may also be relevant to other sites storing hazardous substances in large tanks where level gauges are used. The investigation into the fire and explosion at the Buncefield oil terminal depot on 11 December 2005 is continuing. Enquiries into the workings of the high level safety system to prevent tank overfill have indicated that certain aspects of its installation and testing are critical in ensuring that it works properly. Operators of similar establishments are therefore advised to carry out immediate checks where TAV level switches manufactured by Cynergy3 Components Limited and supplied by them, their predecessor companies or others, are fitted to their storage tanks. Operators should check TAV level switches fitted with change over (double throw) reed switches.
These switches are normally used in 'de-energise' mode to maintain alarm/trip circuits in 'normal' status. The switches are tested by using a lever or plate fitted to the head of the switch, which can be raised to simulate a high level of liquid in the tank. If the switch is working, then alarms and trips connected to the switch should operate.
However, it is critical that after carrying out this test that the lever or plate is returned to the correct position and locked into place, using a special padlock supplied by the manufacturer, and in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. Failure to do this can lead to the switch being inoperative in normal operating mode even though it gives the appearance of functioning normally when tested. There are a number of this type of switch fitted at tank installations in GB and worldwide. HSE has taken urgent action to bring these details to the attention of operators of similar sites through relevant industry bodies across GB, Europe, the USA, and Canada.
Operators should now:
1 Check immediately whether they have such switches fitted, and if so:
2 Ensure they have all relevant manufacturer's information concerning installation and testing and maintenance,
3 Ensure they have records of correct installation, testing and maintenance,
4 Ensure they are currently installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, with the locking device properly fitted, and
5 Complete these checks as soon as possible. [http://www.hse.gov.uk/comah/alerts/t avcheclist.htm
Where operators cannot confirm that the switches are working correctly then other temporary measures may be adopted, until the defects can be remedied, to ensure safe operations. For example; close supervision and dipping.
The manufacturer/supplier will be contacting known users and installers of these switches to alert them to this issue and will be providing revised instructions on the safe use, setting, cleaning and maintenance of these switches.
HSE has served Improvement Notices on Cynergy3 Components Limited requiring it to carry out this work.
UK, London. Gauge blamed for UK tank blaze
May 11 2006 - Abroken tank gauge was the cause of Europe's biggest peacetime fire, according to an inspectors' report.
For more than two hours, the gauge recorded no change in the volume of fuel in one of Buncefield terminal's storage tanks, while unleaded petrol was being pumped in at a rate of 550 cu m an hour. Eventually it filled the tank, and 300 tonnes of it spilled out to form a lethal vapour cloud, which resulted in a series of explosions on December 11, injuring 43 people and forcing the evacuation of thousands more. Toxic chemicals used to put out the Buncefield fire have polluted the water below ground, prompting the water inspectorate to alter the definition of what constitutes safe drinking water.
The inspectorate has accepted scientific advice that water is safe to drink if it contains no more than three micrograms per litre of a toxic substance known as PFOS, which was previously considered to be so dangerous that the Government was preparing legislation to make it illegal to import it. Since the fire, inspectors have taken almost 400 water samples from rivers, boreholes and lagoons that have turned up traces of PFOS, but at a safe level.
UK, Safety inspectors uncover hazards at UK fuel depots
June 15 2006 - Safety inspections ordered after the huge fire at the Buncefield fuel storage depot have revealed faults at five similar sites. The Health and Safety Executive visited more than 100 depots in England, Scotland and Wales during the last four months. One of the most serious discoveries was inadequate maintenance of fire-fighting equipment at an unnamed site. No enforcement action was taken as the operator agreed to rectify the situation.
The Buncefield fire in December 2005, which was caused by leaking fuel, was extremely rare but still prompted safety checks at all 108 similar sites across the country. Areport from the HSE says there was good compliance at the majority of them, but significant issues were found at five. One site owned by Esso, has been ordered to improve bunding, which is the space around the tanks to deal with spillage. Afurther two other sites, one owned by Highland Fuels and the other by BP, were ordered to review their risk assessment procedures. Former Shell manager and UKPIApresident Ken Rivers will chair the group. He said: "The downstream oil industry is determined that Buncefield remains a one-off incident."
Articles APEA2006 Conference, Exhibition and Inaugural Awards
Positive Reception from Industry to New Look APEAEvent
The annual APEAevent, which takes place on 2nd November at The Royal Court Hotel, Coventry, is set to be one of the most well supported APEAevents in recent years. Afirst-rate, topical conference programme, the introduction of industry achievement awards, more display areas and a venue exclusive to the APEAhave all contributed to the huge reception to the new plans.
Says Bob Conlin, Chairman of the Events committee of the APEA, “ We are delighted with the response to the new plans; it seems there is tremendous support and a real need for this type of event and it looks set to be one of the best yet.”
APEA2006 – Recognition of Industry Achievement… Event Programme at a Glance
The APEA2006 Inaugural UK Petroleum 1000 Registration & exhibition opening Retail Industry Awards will be the highlight of 1030 AGM (members only) the Association’s dinner which takes place on the evening of 2nd November. This new 1130 Conference Part One initiative is aimed at recognizing achievement in 1300 Exhibition & Lunch and contribution to the industry. The four awards categories are: Health, Safety and 1430 Conference Part Two Environment (sponsored by Shell), Quality 1600 Exhibition (sponsored by Torex Retail), Customer Service (sponsored by Total) and Innovation 1900 Pre-Dinner Drinks (sponsored by Toureen Mangan). 2000 Awards Dinner with Entertainment
By launching these prestigious Awards, the APEAis offering its members from every discipline a way of demonstrating and celebrating their commitment to Health, Safety and the Environment, Quality, Customer Service and Innovation. The APEAbelieves that one of the best ways to raise standards is to recognise and reward those organisations, teams and individuals who lead the field and to encourage others to follow their good example.
AWord from the Sponsors…
“Innovation may be described as the development of new and exciting ideas in order to bring about improvements to tried and tested practices. At Toureen Mangan we recognise that our business success has been built on providing our clients with innovative solutions and we are proud to be associated with the APEA2006 Innovation Award.” sponsor the inaugural APEA Health, Safety and Environment award. In everything we do, HSE is the top priority at Shell. Shell has three Golden Rules that provide a framework for how staff and contractors must all behave all of the time, in every operation and activity, for Shell to achieve further improvement in HSE performance.”
“Customer service is at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we’re proud to sponsor the Customer Service Awards for APEA2006. We believe in trying harder for our customers, whether it’s with a welcoming smile or clean and tidy forecourt and services. We’re putting the service back into service station.”
It's still not too late to get your entry in for the APEA2006 Awards. Download your entry form from www.apea.org.uk and return it by Friday 8th September.
Conference Preview ....
This year’s first class conference will be opened by keynote speaker John Mumford OBE and Vice President of BPUK who will give a short overview of the industry covering the challenges that are faced in the UK fuels market He will focus on the issues of tighter safety standards, workforce skills requirements, the impact of high oil prices and the changes that are likely to be brought in by alternative fuels.
Stage II....
The importance of Stage II Vapour Recovery cannot be overlooked and will be a focus of the conference sessions provided by Stefan Kunter of Fafnir GmbH and Phil Lambeth of BPGlobal Fuels Technology. Stefan will focus on the regulations, facts, benefits and technology of the European experience of Stage II Vapor Recovery Monitoring, whilst Phil will focus on the UK and the BP experience. BPhas been installing Stage 2 vapour recovery on all new build sites in the UK since 2000. With over 150 sites now operating this presentation reviews the experience and shares the lessons for the remaining sites which need to be fitted before 2010.
Buncefield overview....
Following the largest fire seen in peacetime Europe and an explosion that measured 2.4 on the Richter scale, the APEAis delighted to welcome Mark Yates of Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service to speak on Buncefield at the conference. His presentation will give an overview of the scale and complexity of the Buncefield incident and an explanation of how the Fire Service successfully and safely extinguished the fire.
Providing the independent perspective, Fraser Duffin from Malthurst Ltd will speak about how the ownership and operation of petrol filling stations in the UK has changed substantially over the last 5 years with oil companies reverting back towards simply supplying fuel and more independents and supermarkets controlling the retail operation. Fraser will focus on their different style of operation along with their investment decisions and how they view the increasing burden of legislation.
Says Gilbarco Veeder-Root, conference sponsors: “Gilbarco Veeder-Root is pleased to be sponsoring the APEA 2006 conference, during which a strong panel of speakers will share with you their insights into various industry issues ranging from legislation, innovation, health & safety and environment.”
APEA2006 Speaker Line-Up Includes….
John Mumford, OBE, BP Stefan Kunter, Fafnir GmbH Steve Rowe, Surrey County Council
The awards judging panel comprises industry leaders from a cross section of the UK petroleum retailing industry and will include representatives from the four sponsoring organisations.
Winners will be announced at the awards dinner on the 2 November which has places for some 400 people from across the industry. There is a limited number of dinner places left (at £55.00 per person) - please contact info@downstream-events to book your place. Guests will also be party to some exciting pre and post dinner entertainment which is sponsored by PetroTechnik. Delegates attending the APEA2006 Conference will be awarded 5 Continued Professional Development Hours.
Conference Delegate places are just £20 and include event documentation, a working lunch, exhibition and free car parking. To reserve your place, contact info@downstream-events.com
Conference Timetable – sponsored by
(* please note there may be changes to the programme and timings)
Time
1130 - 1135
1135 - 1155
1155 - 1215
1215 - 1235
1235 - 1255
1300 - 1430
1430 - 1450
1450 - 1510
1510 - 1530
1530 - 1550
1550
Conference Item
Opening Remarks
Keynote Presentation: Overview of the Challenges facing the UK Fuels Market
E85 Ethanol
Forecourt Retailing: an independent’s view
•Differences of style between oil companies and independents •Responding to the increasing levels of legislation
Questions and Answers
Lunch and Exhibition
Stage II Vapour Recovery: The UK Experience
Stage II Vapour Recovery: the European Experience
Lead Authority Partnership Schemes and how to make them work
Buncefield: a firefighter’s view
Questions and Answers
Speaker
Bob Conlin, Fairbanks Environmental. Conference Chair
John Mumford OBE, Vice President, BPOil UK Ltd
Phil Maud, Petroleum Manager, Wm Morrisons Ltd
Fraser Duffin, Property Manager, Malthurst Ltd
Chaired by Bob Conlin
Phil Lambeth, European Retail Fuel Systems, BP Global Fuels Technology
Stefan Kunter, Managing Director, FAFNIR
Steve Rowe, Surrey County Council Trading Standards
Mark Yates, Deputy CFO, Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service
Chaired by Bob Conlin
Over 30 Companies Showcase their Products…
Over 30 companies will be exhibiting at APEA2006 - one of the most comprehensive gatherings of petrol retail equipment in the UK. Products as wide ranging as retail systems, web based maintenance solutions, tank cleaning, risk assessment , signage and HSE training courses will be on show for the market.
See the latest from Berry & Co on stand 3
Urgent Technology (UTL) will be demonstrating the benefits of its custom built web based solutions for the oil industry. Its eMaintenance system was developed in 2003 as a pilot system for the petrol retail market, to provide a transparent way of tracking maintenance of BPpetrol stations across the UK. This multilingual system has now been rolled out to BPsites in the UK, US and nine European countries; and is due to be launched in Germany during 2006.
Fairbanks as SIR based wetstock management specialists, monitoring over 9000 tanks in the UK, Fairbanks will be focusing on real time reconciliation data processing along with the range of enhanced services which this technology offers and also their DSEAR Risk Assessment tool and service.
PetroTechnik showcases sumpto-sump system…
PetroTechnik supplies and distributes the UPPSystem, a complete leak tight sump-to-sump system that lasts the lifetime of any site, ensuring cost-efficient fuel delivery and complete protection for the surrounding environment. The company will be joined at the event by its subsidiary, Cookson & Zinn, the market leading in designing double skinned steel underground storage tanks. Both companies look forward to meeting you at APEA2006. Petrotechnik is also delighted to be sponsoring the evening entertainment.
Health & Safety Consultancy Services…
Afull range of Health and Safety Consultant services ranging from health and safety risk assessment, compilation and development of health and safety policy, to fully certificated health and safety training courses, clothing and equipment will be available on the Best Safety Solutions stand.
Pipex Ltd will be on hand to provide information on its design and build services to the construction industry. It boasts the highest safety, quality and environmental standards for the construction of bespoke pipe systems and structures in corrosion resistant thermoplastic and composite materials. Pipex will be displaying its Penstock Valve Chambers and Electrical/Communication Draw Pits.
Blueline N.I. Ltd, the international subsidiary of California based Blueline Technologies LLC., will be displaying its extensive line of repair and new installation pipe and conduit fittings for the petroleum market. The company offers its customers an extensive range of sump and fitting repair products including its unique line of split repair fittings that mean that leaking pipe and electrical fittings can be quickly and easily repaired in under an hour
Pentstock Chamber from Pipex Ltd
LCM and Tanknology to promote Petroscope at APEA2006
LCM and Tanknology UK last year joined forces to promote and operate Petroscope throughout the UK. Petroscope is a unique remote camera system that enables the inspection of underground storage tanks without the cost and danger involved in man entry. At the ‘new look’APEAconference and exhibition LCM and Tanknology will highlight the quality of image available from Petroscope and the scope of the report to the client. In addition, LCM will have full details of their extensive range of specialist service to the fuel industry that include 24hr Emergency Spill Response, Remediation, Tank replacement and installation, Tank Lining Systems, Terminal Cleaning and Maintenance, Interceptor Cleaning and Maintenance and Tanknology will advise customers of their expertise in leak investigation services.
Torex shows Clean Air Stage II
In line with delivering deliver new and innovative products Torex will be promoting its CleanAir stage II recovery system that gives the unique advantage of a pay back from refined fuel to the operator. CleanAir system can either be incorporated in new pump or dispensers or is available on a stand-alone version.
OAMPS 20th Anniversary…
In its 20 years of providing insurance and support services to companies in the petrochemical/high hazard sector, OAMPS has built up a wealth of experience and knowledge that our
