Report answers critical question about Martinez refinery exposure–but more remain unanswered

Contra Costa Health declared that the dust released into nearby neighborhoods by the Martinez Refining Company last week “does not pose an increased, long-term risk to public health.”

That statement, which followed several days of sampling and laboratory analysis following the release on July 11, may put an end to immediate concerns from the community about the threats to their health. But it leaves lingering questions about the cause of the release, and the refinery’s willingness to promptly inform the public.

According to the county health department, coke dust is a black, powdery residue similar to charcoal that is created during the refining process. Although it could have caused “irritation of the throat, lungs and respiratory system” during the release, health officials said it was safe to wash off surfaces using soap and water.

The release occurred last Tuesday at approximately 8:30 a.m., and lasted for one minute. Two hours passed before the refinery activated the county’s Community Warning System at a Level 1, meaning there are no expected health consequences of the release.

Regardless of the health effects, city and county officials have expressed concern over that notification delay. According to Contra Costa Health, they are investigating the incident with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District to determine “whether the release violated regulatory law,”. The health department is also investigating whether the refinery properly followed the county’s emergency notification policy.