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South Gate Refinery

South Gate, California has one functioning oil refinery, which is operated by the Lunday Thagard company. The plant produces asphalt based paving and roofing products, and has the ability to manufacture up to 8,500 barrels of crude oil per day.

Lunday Thagard was established in 1937, and began production within their California facility. As the company developed, its need for various products that had the ability to withstand the high temperatures created by the refining process grew. As with many other refineries, the South Gate plant purchased items that were made out of asbestos, a naturally occurring material that can hold together even in extreme heat. Products such as rubber gaskets which contained asbestos were put in place throughout the facility and used for many years. As these items began to break apart, miniscule particles of asbestos would be released into the air, and breathed in by employees. It was not known at the time, but the inhalation of asbestos can be an extreme health hazard that can result in severe respiratory problems and a disease called mesothelioma, which is often deadly.

Every item that contained asbestos had to be removed from the plant. Certified professionals were called upon for the project, and they cleared every bit of the hazardous material out and disposed of it. Unfortunately, anyone who worked at the refinery before this was accomplished was put at risk of being exposed to asbestos. Current and former employees who fall into this category should immediately contact their doctor and explain the situation.

The South Gate refinery was involved in a settlement with the Environmental Protection agency in 1995, when harmful levels of pollution were discovered at the plant. In particular, oil, ammonia and various other toxins were flushed into the sewer system, which is a direct violation of the Clean Water Act. Lunday Thagard was fined $255,000 for this illegal activity

In April of 2008 a small fire broke out at the plant. Fire fighting crews were called in, but employees were able to put out the blaze before they arrived. No major damage was done during the fire, but one person did receive a minor burn and had to be taken to the hospital for treatment.

Last modified: December 09 2009.