OSHA Cites Wynnewood Refinery For Safety Violations

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The owner of an oil refinery at Wynnewood faces nearly $155,000 in fines for alleged safety violations found after an explosion and fires at the plant in May.<br/><br/>The federal

Friday, November 10th 2006, 9:17 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The owner of an oil refinery at Wynnewood faces nearly $155,000 in fines for alleged safety violations found after an explosion and fires at the plant in May.

The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration says Wynnewood Refinery failed to properly maintain processing equipment at its alkylation unit. OSHA also says the refinery failed to maintain other equipment and provide safety equipment.

Explosions and fires at the alkylation unit on May 13th forced hundreds of evacuations. There were no injuries.

The refinery is owned by Gary-Williams Energy Corporation of Denver and process about 50,000 barrels of oil a day for gasoline, jet fuel, kerosene, propane and other materials.

The company has 15 working days to either pay the fine, ask for a conference with OSHA or appeal the fines and penalties.