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Environment & Safety

EPA’s biofuel plan frustrates US refiners, farmers

The increase did not go far enough for the farm lobby and biofuels companies like Poet LLC, which have spent millions to produce advanced biofuels. Meanwhile, oil industry advocates, who have criticized previous targets as unrealistic, renewed calls for an overhaul of the program.

US EPA proposes modest increase in 2017 biofuels blending targets

Releasing the blending targets ahead of 2017 is part of the US EPA's efforts to get the controversial policy program for domestic refiners back on track after many years of delays.

Climate laws could mean higher refining costs

Curbing increasing levels of greenhouse gas emissions remains a key requirement, and challenge, for global oil refiners and gas producers.

Arson blamed for 2013 Texas fertilizer plant blast

A call for tighter and more thorough regulations was issued following the deadly blast and ensuing fires.

Worker killed in accident at Komsomolsk refinery of Russia’s Rosneft

The worker was from a contractor firm working on the site, Rosneft said in a statement. The accident occurred during tests at a pipeline which was undergoing maintenance works.

ExxonMobil reports death of contractor in work at Beaumont refinery

The AltairStrickland worker was struck in the head and neck area by piping that was being removed from a heat exchanger, a local sheriff's office spokesperson said.

Saudi Aramco extends bid date for Ras Tanura clean fuels project

The Ras Tanura clean fuels project, which includes a naphtha hydrotreater, was to be part of a second phase of upgrades and was originally due to go on stream in 2016.

Failure prevention—The ultimate asset management strategy

Small Hammer Inc.: Snider, B.

The primary cause for losses and lost opportunities at refineries, chemical complexes, pipeline networks and gas processing facilities is equipment failures.

Lifting of US crude export ban will impact process safety management

North Highland Worldwide Consulting: Molly, K.

Since the Arab oil embargo in the 1970s, the US government has restricted the export of crude oil to curb dependence on crude oil imports.

Engineering Case Histories: Case 90: Precautions when working near equipment

Consulting Engineer: Sofronas, A.

Most machines and pressure vessels are designed with safety in mind, but they can release large amounts of energy if not constructed, maintained or operated correctly.