Fire started after workers strike pipe at B.C. facility
One worker has died and another was injured following a possible explosion and subsequent fire in northern British Columbia, according to reports.
The incident occurred at Tourmaline’s Gundy natural gas plant – located approximately 150 kilometres north of Fort St. John – on April 14.
At around 6 p.m. that day, workers reportedly struck a pipe at the site of the c-60 gas plant, sparking a fire, according to the British Columbia Energy Regulator.
“We have confirmed that a contractor worker was fatally injured and another contractor worker is being treated for injuries in hospital,” said the oil and natural gas company, according to a CTV News report. “We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family, friends and co-workers of the individuals.”
The fire was extinguished early in the morning on April 15, according to the energy regulator.
Tourmaline activated its emergency response plan, isolated the response area and contacted everyone within that area to inform them of the incident, said the regulator.
“The plant is secure and there is no further risk to public safety or the environment,” it said.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) suspects no criminality in the incident, according to a CBC report. The police are investigating the incident.
Tourmaline is focused on “long-term growth through an active exploration, development, production and acquisition program in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin,” according to the company’s website.
