One of the largest oil refineries in the UK faces a potential explosion threat that could endanger lives and cause significant damage to the surrounding community, according to a trade union alert.
Lindsey Oil Refinery, located in north Lincolnshire, was shut down recently following the administration of its owner, Prax Group, raising concerns about the safety of its workforce. Unite’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, has reached out to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband to express apprehensions regarding the maintenance of essential safety personnel at the refinery.
In a confidential communication disclosed to the media, Graham emphasized the urgent need for additional safety measures at Lindsey Oil Refinery to prevent a major accident. The union stressed the government’s responsibility to safeguard the lives of workers on-site, as well as those at the neighboring P66 refinery and the local populace.
Highlighting the potential catastrophic consequences of a mishap, Unite referenced past refinery disasters such as the BP Texas City incident in 2005 and the Pembroke refinery explosion in the UK in 2011. With Lindsey Oil Refinery classified as a “top tier” facility under safety regulations, Unite expressed concerns about the depletion of critical safety personnel due to job insecurity.
The union cautioned that employees are considering abrupt exits due to inadequate financial support during the transition period while the refinery seeks a new owner. Graham underscored the importance of allocating resources to retain workers and prevent the looming risks of casualties, economic losses, and environmental harm.
In response, an Insolvency Service spokesperson reiterated the Official Receiver’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of the refinery and its employees. Ongoing negotiations are underway to secure the sale of the business and ensure operational continuity.
The refinery, now under the control of the official receiver, faced financial turmoil leading to its former owner entering administration and subsequent asset freezing by the court. With hundreds of direct and indirect jobs at stake, Unite urged for job preservation as a key criterion in evaluating potential buyers.
Emphasizing the critical role of Lindsey Oil Refinery in the national fuel supply chain, Sharon urged a focus on job retention to prevent its closure, which would mark the second refinery shutdown within a year. She criticized the prospect of fuel imports from India, citing environmental concerns and the impact on national energy security.