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Chalmette Refining (1376), Chalmette

LDEQ Accident Report

Accident #151351
State Police #13-04349
Accident Date2013-10-01
Report Date 2013-10-08
Follow-up Date 2013-11-27
Follow-up: Yes

Pollutants Released

Pollutant Duration Point Source Greenhouse Gas Criteria Pollutant Ozone forming chemical Amount of Release
Benzene6hTank Farm, Tank 52NONOYES154.0 pounds
Hydrocarbon6hTank Farm, Tank 52NONOYES180.6 gallons

Accident Classified As: Reportable Quantity

Cause of Problem: Seal or Gasket

On October 1, 2013, personnel identified a leak at Tank 52 charge pump (G-9053) which was determined to be from a mechanical seal failure. The valve on the suction side of the pump malfunctioned.

Discharge Preventable - Yes

Valve maintenance was less than adequate to provide an early indication of failure. CRLLC will develop a strategy to incorporate isolation valves into its maintenance program to prevent recurrence.

Notes/Remedial Actions

The pump was immediately turned off and the valves on the suction and discharge sides of the pump were closed to attempt to isolate the leak from the pump. The valve on the suctions side of the pump malfunctioned and required the use of water to pressure the hydrocarbon material back to Tank 52 until the line could be isolated. The pump will be repaired and inspected prior to being put back in to service.