CALGARY�Hub Oil Co. Ltd., Calgary, has been charged in connection with an explosion at its Calgary used oil recycling plant a year ago that killed two workers (OGJ, Aug. 16, 1999, p. 36). The company could face fines up to $150,000 (Can.) for the charges, which allege it failed to maintain equipment.
The charge, laid under the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act, carries a fine up to $150,000 for first-time offenders, a 6-month jail term, or both.
The Aug. 9, 1999, explosion killed two Hub workers on site, triggered a fire that burned for 10 hr, and caused the evacuation of 250 residents in the area.
Hub Oil refused comment on the charges because the matter is before the courts.
A government spokesman declined to elaborate on the charges but said such charges are laid when it is believed negligence was involved.
Calgary police and the Alberta Environment department are still conducting an investigation into the explosion. Several families affected by the refinery blast have filed suits against the company.
