One person was injured in an explosion today in a pipe inspection channel at the “Lukoil“ refinery in the Romanian city of Ploiesti (Prahova County), Agerpres agency reported. The regional police inspectorate has launched a criminal investigation into the case for failure to comply with legal regulations on health and safety at work, BTA reported.
According to the initial investigation, a 58-year-old man, an employee of the company, was hit by the concrete cover of the shaft while carrying out repair work. The cover was blown away by an explosion caused by a buildup of gas generated by waste that had penetrated the shaft.
The man was taken to hospital for medical treatment and was conscious when he was admitted by the medical team. He suffered head and facial injuries, as well as an injury to his left leg, the District Police Inspectorate reported.
The Petrotel Lukoil Ploiești refinery has been completely closed for 45 days for major repairs, with work focused on technological installations and auxiliary facilities. According to a statement from the refinery, the planned repairs are taking place between October 17 and November 30, Agerpres recalls.