Dozens of workers at the Hammerfest LNG export terminal became ill. This facility operates on Norway’s Melkoya island. Exposure to vented gas caused their sickness, according to operator Equinor‘s investigation.
Incident Overview
The affected individuals reported various symptoms following the exposure. These workers were actively present on-site at the Hammerfest LNG facility during the period of concern. The terminal itself represents a significant piece of energy infrastructure for the region, processing natural gas for export.
Equinor’s Investigation and Findings
Equinor, as the facility’s operator, promptly launched a comprehensive investigation. This probe aimed to thoroughly determine the precise cause of the widespread worker illness. Consequently, the company succeeded in identifying the specific source of the gas exposure that led to the health issues.
Source Traced to Storage Tanks
Investigators definitively pinpointed tanks storing monoethylene glycol (MEG) as the origin of the harmful gas. Gas vented directly from these particular storage units. This uncontrolled venting mechanism subsequently exposed numerous workers to the substance, causing their reported illnesses.
Understanding Monoethylene Glycol (MEG)
Monoethylene glycol, more commonly identified as MEG, functions as a crucial chemical compound. Industrial facilities such as Hammerfest LNG frequently utilize MEG for various operational processes, including dehydration. The chemical was indeed present within the identified tanks at the time of the incident, confirming its role in the exposures.
Implications and Next Steps
The findings from Equinor’s investigation highlight specific operational aspects at the Melkoya terminal. These revelations underscore the importance of robust safety protocols in industrial environments. Equinor anticipates releasing further details regarding any corrective actions or ongoing monitoring efforts.
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