Hazmat Team Investigates Coke Dust Release At Martinez Refinery

MARTINEZ, CA — A hazardous materials team was sent to investigate a report of petroleum coke dust released Friday at Martinez Refining Company, according to Contra Costa Health officials.

The refinery reported the release around 11 a.m. Friday and it ended soon after it was reported by MRC to Contra Costa County’s Community Warning System, the county said. As of Friday afternoon, there was no immediate evidence of a risk to public health in Martinez or surrounding communities, the county said.

The refinery reported that the release began at 10:31 a.m. while workers were conducting maintenance, which was stopped when the release took place.

Contra Costa Health officials said they were aware of the Alhambra High School homecoming parade set for Friday evening. The refinery confirmed there will not be additional maintenance on Friday, and they will use a different process to complete the work.

Following an assessment by the county's health officer, the county believes the homecoming parade and other community events can proceed as planned.

Contra Costa Health asked the facility to provide a 72-hour report regarding the cause of the release. The report will be posted online at Cchealth.org/hazmat.