The Torrance Refinery is committed to safely and reliably operating our facilities in an environmentally responsible manner. One of the ways we accomplish this is through daily equipment inspections and the detection and prompt repair of equipment leaks. Formally known as “Leak Detection and Repair,” this program is another way we continue to protect our employees, contractors, and neighbors, while earning the right to operate in the communities that host us.
The Refinery’s Environmental Department sponsors our skilled and dedicated Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) group, whose team members are responsible for inspecting 300,000 refinery equipment components every quarter. That impressive number includes valves, pumps, connectors, wells, tanks, and cooling towers, as well as sewers and drains that are part of the Refinery’s Oily Water system. The inspection program is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD).
According to Jose A. Montenegro, Refinery LDAR coordinator, “Identifying, reporting, and promptly repairing equipment and components that are found to be emitting is important. Keeping our products within the pipes and minimizing exposure to the atmosphere helps keep the air we breathe clean.”
The Environmental Department recently underwent a third-party audit during which the Auditors focused on equipment identification, record keeping, occupational exposure limits control, repair processes, quality assurance and controls, and chronic leaks. After checking approximately 1.4 million pieces of component records in the refinery’s database, the Auditors found the program to be in compliance and gave the Refinery a Grade A report, noting Torrance is one the best Refineries in the country.
The LDAR team consists of Leak Detection Technicians, Repair Technicians and support staff. Each LDAR Technician covers a route that resets every quarter. If a leak is detected, a repair request is submitted and completed, and the Technician must re-inspect the item again within a specified time period to ensure the equipment is functioning properly.
The Environmental Department recently underwent a third-party audit during which the Auditors focused on equipment identification, record keeping, occupational exposure limits control, repair processes, quality assurance and controls, and chronic leaks. After checking approximately 1.4 million pieces of component records in the refinery’s database, the Auditors found the program to be in compliance and gave the Refinery a Grade A report, noting Torrance is one the best Refineries in the country.
The LDAR team consists of Leak Detection Technicians, Repair Technicians and support staff. Each LDAR Technician covers a route that resets every quarter. If a leak is detected, a repair request is submitted and completed, and the Technician must re-inspect the item again within a specified time period to ensure the equipment is functioning properly. To learn more about Refinery operations and programs, please visit other articles on our website.