USA – Inadequate Oversight and Training Blamed for Martinez Refinery Fire, Report Finds
An independent investigation has concluded that human error, driven by poor supervision and training, was the main cause of a major fire at the Martinez Refining Company in February.
The fire, which burned for three days and prompted a shelter-in-place alert for nearby residents, began at the PBF Energy Facility. According to the 21-page report, two union contractors unintentionally loosened bolts on a pressurized flange containing hot hydrocarbons during a risky but routine operation. The incident is being attributed to a lack of adequate training and oversight of contract workers.
Key Findings
The report points to systemic issues within the refinery’s management, particularly in the handling of contract labor. It cites a shortage of qualified workers, ineffective supervision, and insufficient safety protocols as key contributors to the fire.
“This is very concerning,” said Heidi Taylor, co-founder of Healthy Martinez, a refinery watchdog group. “It’s unacceptable that a contractor could open the wrong flange and cause this level of harm to workers and the community.”
Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia emphasized the broader implications. “All the issues identified in this report trace back to poor management of contractor procedures and practices. This isn’t an isolated event—it reflects a larger pattern at the facility.”
Taylor added that the incident also highlights a culture of prioritizing production over safety. “It’s a pattern of ignoring the concerns of steelworkers—the people who know the risks firsthand.”
Company Response and Next Steps
In a statement, the Martinez Refining Company acknowledged the findings and said it is conducting its own internal investigation, which will be submitted to Contra Costa Health by the end of the month. The company also stated that it is cooperating with all relevant agencies.
Meanwhile, Contra Costa County has completed a health and safety inspection of the refinery, and a comprehensive facility audit is expected in the coming weeks.
Photo credit: Jose Carlos Fajardo. All rights reserved.