Martinez Refinery Addresses Flaring, Siren Tests

MARTINEZ, CA — The Martinez Refining Company apologized for flaring Friday night and noted it would be testing its sirens Monday.

The flaring was visible mainly from I-680 and Marina Vista Avenue and was possibly heard offsite.

"We apologize for impacting some of our neighbors and thank our employees who are safely responding to resolve the equipment issue that is causing the flaring," the refinery said on social media.

Flares are essential to a refinery’s integrated, engineered safety system and are designed to safely manage excess combustible gases by burning them off efficiently and effectively, according to the refinery located at 3485 Pacheco Blvd. in Martinez.

In a separate post on Monday morning, the refinery notified the public it runs internal siren tests between 11 a.m. and noon on Mondays to ensure its sirens remain operational. During the tests, sirens will typically be heard by the refinery's fence-line neighbors and potentially beyond.

"Testing our sirens ensures that we run the refinery to the highest safety standards possible to protect the community, employees, and contract partners," the refinery said.

Community members with questions or concerns about the Martinez Refining Company can call an inquiry line at 925-313-3777 on weekdays or 925-313-3601 during off-work hours. A team of dedicated employees responds to inquiries 24/7, the refinery said.