The Residents Association of Dana Bay Conservancy We care about our environment

Urgent probe into Mossel Bay gas fire
ByBRONWYNNE JOOSTE

PetroSA has launched an urgent investigation into a fire at the company's Mossel Bay oil-from-gasplant.

The cause of the fIre, fIrst detected at one of its units at midday on Christmas day, is unknown.

Yesterday the authorities
were still assessing the extent
of the damage.

PetroSA spokesman Thabo Mabaso said the fIre was extinguished
an hour after it was fIrst detected and there were no injuries.
While production was partiallyaffected, Mabaso said PetroSA
remained confIdent it would "be able to meet supply commitments" .

Despite the incident, Mabaso said the company followed stringent
and world-class safety standards.

But the Mossel Bay community admitted they had their safety' concerns. Willie Komani, a resident and tourist guide in Mossel Bay, said community members knew little about its safety measures.

"We would appreciate it if they came to speak to us. The people here have concerns about their health, and would like to sit down with the
people from Mossgas to hear what really goes on inside there".

"They will give you a story, but in reality we don't really
know what's happening."

Mabaso said the PetroSA had "vibrant and continuous" consultations with the Mossel Bay community.  "We make sure we brief them about our safety mechanisms."