A full investigation is underway to determine the cause of a fuel leak at the Petro Oceania Fuels Terminal in Walu Bay, Suva, and to ensure it does not happen again, the company says.
The fuel tank side leak, detected on at about 5am yesterday triggered the immediate activation of Petro Oceania’s emergency response procedures to contain the spill, protect public safety and minimise environmental impact.
The National Fire Authority confirmed that at 8.30am yesterday, the fuel height in the leaking terminal was recorded at eight metres, with an estimated volume of 1,160,000 litres.
By 11.40am, the fuel height had reduced to 7.5 metres, with a volume of approximately 980,000 litres, confirming a measurable loss of product.
Petro Oceania said the leak was quickly isolated and contained within the terminal by its onsite team, with the Fiji Police Force and National Fire Authority (NFA) notified immediately and assisting in managing the incident.
Petro Oceania chief executive officer James Marryatt said there had been no injuries and no damage to the environment.
“All fuel product is now being safely transferred to alternate storage,” Mr Marryat said.
“I can assure everyone that there has been no harm to people and no damage to the environment.
“Our staff are extremely well-trained professionals and by following our emergency procedures and by working closely with the Fiji Police and National Fire Authority, we have safely managed this event.”
Mr Marryatt said findings from the investigation would inform remedial measures to prevent a recurrence.
“A full review is already underway into why this happened so we can ensure that it doesn’t happen again.
He also thanked emergency responders and staff at the terminal for their swift action.
“Sincere thanks are due to the Fiji Police and National Fire Authority teams for their prompt response and assistance to our Petro Oceania team in Walu Bay for safely managing this event.”
Petro Oceania said it was cooperating fully with regulatory authorities and would share a detailed report with stakeholders once the investigation is completed.
