UPDATE: Shell Says Leak at Scotford Under Control

Shell Canada

Shell advised that yesterday's leak at the Scotford Upgrader is fully under control and all affected units have been safely shut down.

"We regret any concern this incident caused our employees and neighbors," said Upgrader General Manager, Peter St. George. "We appreciated the quick and professional response by our employees and the Strathcona County fire department."

The Shell Scotford Chemical Plant and the Upgrader expansion construction site resume normal operations today. The Scotford Refinery remains in operation at reduced rates. Affected customers have been notified. Assessment and repair planning at the Upgrader is underway.

Monday's incident began at about 4 pm when a leak occurred in one of two residue hydroconversion units at the Upgrader. Vapor ignited and emergency responders later extinguished the fire. There were no injuries. Odors were reported, however no offsite emissions above ambient air quality guidelines were measured. Regulatory authorities monitored Shell's response throughout the incident.

An incident investigation has begun. Shell continues to work with the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board and other regulatory agencies.

The Scotford Upgrader is part of the Athabasca Oil Sands Project, a joint venture among Shell Canada Energy (60%), Marathon Oil Sands L.P. (20%) and Chevron Canada Limited (20%).


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