Co-op fined $280K in 2011 Regina refinery explosion

Flames and smoke is seen after an explosion at the Co-op crude oil refinery in Regina on Thursday, Oct. 6, 2011. (Shaun Reich / MyNews.CTV.ca)

The company that runs the Co-op refinery in Regina has been fined $280,000 for an occupational health and safety violation stemming from a 2011 fire and explosion.

Consumers’ Co-operative Refineries Ltd. had previously pleaded guilty to a charge of failing to ensure all work was sufficiently and competently supervised. Four other charges against the company were withdrawn.

In October 2011, a corroded pipe ruptured at the refinery, causing a fire and explosion that injured 52 people, 13 of whom needed immediate medical attention.

The injured workers have since filed a lawsuit alleging negligence put workers at risk. A statement of claim says there were known safety concerns before the explosion, including possible gas leaks, lack of alarms and an inadequate emergency medical plan.

None of the allegations have been proven in court.