Early Morning Explosion at Co-op Refinery Complex Injures Two Workers

An explosion at the Co-op Refinery Complex (CRC) early Tuesday morning sent shockwaves through north Regina. The fire, which broke out in a unit within Section Three at approximately 4:45 a.m., caused minor injuries to two employees.

Immediate Response and Containment

Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL), which owns and operates the refinery, confirmed in a statement that all personnel had been accounted for and that the fire had been contained.

“At this time, we can confirm that all personnel have been accounted for, with two employees undergoing assessment for minor injuries. The fire has been contained, and the affected area has been stabilized. Additional details will be shared as the investigation progresses,” FCL stated in an email.

Unifor Local 594 President Richard Exner explained that a leak in a piece of equipment triggered the explosion and fire.

“Our first responders acted immediately, assessed the situation, and deployed water to contain the fire. We are proud and grateful for their swift action,” Exner said. He added that the injured workers were evaluated by EMS as a precaution but were in good condition.

“It was a frightening situation, but our team is well-trained. The members on duty that night did an excellent job,” he added.

Regina Fire and Protective Services (RFPS) arrived at the refinery by 4:49 a.m. A social media post from the department stated that CRC personnel had the situation under control, with RFPS providing standby support into the morning.

History of Incidents at CRC

This is not the first fire at the refinery in recent years. The most recent occurred in August 2020, prompting an evacuation. Other serious incidents include an October 2011 explosion that injured 52 workers, a May 2012 fire caused by an overheated oil pump, another blaze in February 2013, and a Christmas Eve explosion later that year.

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