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HOVENSA DCU Vapor Release

 
Site Contact:
Cris D'Onofrio
On Scene Coordinator

(donofrio.cris@epa.gov)

Site Location:
1 Estate Hope
Christiansted, VI 00820-5652
 response.epa.gov/dcuvapor

An eight minute long release of residue from a delayed coker unit into the atmosphere accompanied by a release of steam and hydrogen sulfide through a faulty valve occurred on December 9, 2010.

This resulted in residue droplets (spotting) reaching the Clifton Hill and Fredensborg residential neighborhoods and surrounding area.

HOVENSA crews are conducitng an assessment as to the impact and related removal of coker residues from residential roofs, cisterns and other structures. EPA is overseeing sampling, assessment and cleanup activities.


DCU Vapor Release impact area Spotting on truck hood in Clifton Hill Spotting on church Spotting on cemetery mausoleum Samples being taken from a water buffalo. Sampling a cistern to check for contamination. Contractors power washing a roof to remove spotting. A contractor power washing a roof to remove spotting. Workers inspecting a roof in the affected area. A view of the Hovensa Refinery from the affected neighborhood. Contractors getting ready to power wash a home that has spotting on it's roof. Contractor power washing a porch to remove spotting. Contractors working to remove spotting. U. S. Coast Guard assisting the EPA with contractor over site. U. S. Coast Guard and DPNR personnel working together in the neighborhood affected by the Hovensa Refinery release. Contractors resealing a roof after it had been power washed. Contractors working to reseal a roof after it had been power washed.
For additional information, visit the Pollution/Situation Report (Pol/Sitreps) section.