Co-Op refinery explosion caused by ruptured line

The explosion that sent 13 people to hospital at the Co-Op refinery in October 2011 was caused by a failure in an effluent line, investigators say. 

“The investigator observed the wall thickness of the pipe where the breach occurred, was much less than the surrounding pipe,” said Gerard Kay Deputy Chief of Regina fire & protective services. 

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The pipe breach triggered the explosion, fire and subsequent explosions. 

The ruptured line released a mixture of fuel and hydrogen with multiple ignition sources in the area. 

“The explosion and fire are classified as accidental,” Gerard added.  

The explosions and fire injured a total of 52 people and caused $100 million in damage and lost production. 

“We regret what happened last October and we apologize,” said Scott Banda CEO of Federated Co-Op Ltd.