Flaring reported Wednesday night at Martinez refinery

MARTINEZ – Flaring was reported Wednesday night at a facility operated by the Martinez Refinery Company.

In a statement, the company said it had notified “all appropriate agencies” of the flaring activity.

“We apologize for any inconvenience to our neighbors,” the company said. “Flares are an essential part of a refinery’s integrated, engineered safety systems designed to safely manage excess combustible gases by burning them off efficiently and effectively.”

The incident happened on the same day two Martinez residents filed a lawsuit against the company, alleging that it has become a public nuisance that is causing severe harm to residents.

The suit demands that the company cease operations until it proves it can do so safely.

The company is also facing scrutiny for a string of industrial accidents over the past year, including the release of spent catalyst last year on Thanksgiving night. Although the company claimed the substance was “non-toxic,” Contra Costa Health told residents days later it contained barium, chromium and other harmful metals.

Flaring was also reported Monday at the Chevron refinery in Richmond. Chevron said the flaring activity was triggered by a loss of power to a portion of the facility.

Check back for updates.