Texas City Refinery Valero
The refinery in Texas City, Texas was established and running before the city itself was even incorporated. The refinery was built in 1908, and its presence helped bring about the town, which became official in 1911. Over the years more than a dozen companies have owned the facility, and it is currently in operation by Valero Energy Corp. Valero purchased the plant in 1997, and expanded its production facilities to become capable of producing up to 210,000 barrels of crude oil on a daily basis.
The refinery has experienced a stable and secure history over the years, but it does have a noticeable black mark in its past. Years ago it was common practice in oil refineries, as well as in other industrial settings, work places and even homes, to use construction and insulation materials that were made from asbestos. This was before it was realized that asbestos is a harmful material that can cause respiratory damages and cancer, such as mesothelioma. Plant employees were often subjected to working around this toxic substance, and were not aware of the potential hazards it held towards their health. Once asbestos is able to get into the respiratory system of an individual, it can remain there for several years and slowly bring about diseases and other bodily harm. Anyone who did work at the Texas City facility should contact their doctor and explain the risk of exposure they have faced.
Beginning in 2004, Valero started on a major expansion project that would increase the size of the facility as well as the amount of product it could create. During this project, there have been a couple of minor setbacks. In January of 2007, the plant was hit with a small fire in the afternoon. Crews reacted quickly, and were able to subdue the blaze in a short time. There were no injuries from the incident, and work continued throughout the day. Another fire hit the plant in 2008, and this one led to the site being shut down temporarily while repairs were made. The plan will continue to move forward, and Valero hopes to finish the expansion within the originally desired timeline despite these incidents.
Valero has worked hard to make the Texas City refinery a safe and environmentally responsible facility, and their efforts have have been rewarded by Occupational Safety and Health Association's (OSHA). As part of OSHA's Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), the refinery has been designated as a Star Site, which signifies the plant has a solid record of security and safety for the employees as well as the local community.
Last modified: December 09, 2009.
