After Katrina: Special Precautions Needed During Oil and Chemical Facility Startup

The startup of major processes is a hazardous phase in the operation of oil refineries and chemical plants. Hurricane Katrina has now disrupted production at numerous petrochemical facilities in the Gulf Coast region and caused extensive water and wind damage to facilities in hard-hit areas. Over the coming weeks and months, these facilities will be restarting. This is a time to make sure no more lives are claimed by this tragedy and no further delays occur in the production of essential transportation fuels and chemicals. Facilities should pay particular attention to process safety requirements during this critical period to assure a safe and expeditious return to operation.