The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) continues to investigate the explosion at the Husky Energy oil refinery in Superior, Wisconsin that injured some 20 people – mostly contract workers – last April.
While the complete investigation could take up to 18 months, a CSB spokesperson recently told the Duluth News Tribune that the Board would likely release a “factual update” in early August.
Husky Energy was Preparing to Shut-Down Refinery Day of Explosion
The April 26th explosion in the refinery’s fluid catalytic cracking unit (FCCU) occurred around 10:00 a.m., as workers were preparing the facility for a 5-week shut-down for cleaning.
The massive fire triggered by the explosion forced the evacuation of nearly all of Superior, a town of roughly 27,000 people.
11 people injured in the blast were taken to area hospitals for treatment, while the remaining were treated on scene.
Most of those hurt in the explosion were employed by the contractor hired to clean the refinery.
Shrapnel Analysis Could Point to Cause of Husky Energy Explosion
According to Reuters, the CSB is analyzing metal shrapnel from the gas-producing FCCU. The shrapnel tore through a tank containing hot asphalt, sparking the fire that spread through the entire refinery.
The results of the metallurgical analysis could provide important clues as to the cause of the blast. However, the analysis will take some time to complete, as much of the shrapnel is covered in asphalt.
Husky Refinery Won’t Restart Until CSB Determines Cause
The 38,000-bpd refinery was built in the 1950s and currently produces gasoline, diesel fuel, motor oils, and asphalt.
Canada-based Husky Energy purchased the property from Calumet Specialty Products last November for $492 billion.
More than 2 months after the explosion, officials with the company still aren’t sure when then refinery might restart.
A Husky Energy spokesperson recently told the Calgary Herald that the company won’t be able to fully assess damage and map out a recovery plan until the CSB determines the cause of the blast.
Cleanup of the site has progressed far enough for the off-site incident command center to move onto refinery property. About 400 employees and contractors are currently working at the plant.
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