A thorough investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of a fuel leak at the Petro Oceania Fuels Terminal situated in Walu Bay, Suva. The company is dedicated to preventing such incidents in the future.
The leak was first detected around 5 a.m. yesterday, prompting Petro Oceania to immediately activate its emergency response protocols. These measures aim to contain the spill, protect public health, and reduce environmental impact. According to the National Fire Authority (NFA), the fuel height at the terminal was reported at eight meters by 8:30 a.m., with an estimated 1,160,000 liters of fuel present. By 11:40 a.m., this level had decreased to 7.5 meters, indicating a loss of about 980,000 liters.
Petro Oceania reported that the leak was successfully contained on-site by their trained personnel, who promptly notified both the Fiji Police Force and the NFA, key players in managing the situation. James Marryatt, the CEO of Petro Oceania, confirmed that there were no injuries or environmental harm resulting from the incident. He noted, “All fuel product is now being safely transferred to alternate storage.”
Marryatt assured the public of the extensive training and professionalism of their staff, highlighting their commitment to emergency procedures and collaboration with local authorities. He expressed appreciation for the quick response from the Fiji Police and NFA in effectively managing the situation.
The company is fully cooperating with regulatory bodies and intends to provide a comprehensive report to stakeholders once the investigation concludes. Marryatt emphasized that the findings will determine measures to prevent future incidents, reflecting a proactive stance towards safety and environmental responsibility.
While the incident is regrettable, it underscores the critical importance of emergency preparedness and the effective collaboration between Petro Oceania and local authorities. This swift response ensured the maintenance of public safety and environmental integrity, inspiring confidence in the company’s commitment to safety protocols and disaster management.