Petro-Canada to investigate explosion, fire at Ontario lubricants plant

By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, Aug. 22 -- Petro-Canada said it will launch a full investigation into the cause of a hydrogen explosion and fire that occurred late Thursday at its Mississauga, Ont., lubricants plant, about 35 km west of Toronto.

"No one was injured during the incident and flames were brought under control within 30 min," Petro-Canada reported. "Hydrogen is being allowed to burn off in a controlled manner as a safety measure. At this time, there is no threat to the environment. Air monitoring continues on-site."

Petro-Canada said that an estimate of the damage caused by the fire is unavailable at this time.

"Our No. 1 priority has been the health and safety of our employees and the public," said Randy Koenig, vice-president, lubricants.