In September, the Torrance Refinery opened its doors to the public as a dynamic “museum” featuring a variety of educational displays, models, equipment, and employee profiles showcasing the talent and diversity of the refinery’s workforce. Attendees also had an opportunity to take a bus tour through the refinery with tour guides explaining how the refinery operates, and enjoy a Community Showcase at the refinery’s park, highlighting community and civic partners, while offering games and refreshments.

A dedicated team of 144 volunteers, supported by our community partners in the refinery park, hosted a safe and engaging Community Open House that drew approximately 700 attendees, with 87% of them visiting for the first time. The event welcomed neighbors, business leaders, and state and local elected officials who came to learn about refinery operations, products, safety practices, and the important role the plant plays in the local and state economy, and modern life in general.

This marked the third Open House held by the Torrance Refinery since its acquisition by PBF Energy in 2016, with previous events held in 2017 and 2018. For many employees, this was their first Open House, offering them the opportunity to volunteer and showcase their workplace to residents of Torrance. Family and friends of Refinery employees were also invited to volunteer and contribute to the event.

Guests were invited to share their feedback after they visited the gym display area, before taking the refinery tour. They were also encouraged to fill out a survey at the exit booth following the tour. These are some of the insights participants shared about their experiences, including what they learned:

  • “Was not aware of the refinery process & effectiveness. Impressive!”
  • “Very impressed with the science, the efforts for safety, and the operating actions taken to maintain a sound environmental impact.”
  • “You have done a lot to improve the facility and ensure a safe environment. The open house made a very good impression.”
  • “Great to know safety is top priority.”
  • “I’m more positive about having the refinery here. Safety seems to be a priority, which as a resident is very reassuring.”
  • “I am impressed with the employees’ dedication.”
  • “I appreciated the many safety features highlighted on the tour, especially the water cannons and the steel enclosure used to contain the MHF in the event of a failure of some sort.”
  • “I feel better in general about living so close.”
  • “The refinery is much more complicated than I expected!”
  • “Outstanding people. Very clean & well-maintained facility.”