04-10-2012

Official statement on the incident at the Saratov refinery

The management of Saratov Refinery reports that the fire at the refinery has been extinguished. The affected facilities are currently being cooled down. According to preliminary data, the fire covered an area of approximately 100 sq m. Four persons suffered burns of varying degrees and were taken to the Saratov regional burn center. One of them, operator of the SNPZ Shop 1 unit, is currently in a critical condition, with burns covering a significant part of his body. Another three employees were taken to hospital in a moderately severe non-life threatening condition. All those affected have been provided with necessary medical assistance. Three of the injured employees are already in contact with their families.

The company management will provide all necessary assistance in terms of treatment and support to their families.

Konstantin Gusarov, General Director of OJSC Saratov Oil Refinery said:

“The fire that occurred at the Saratov Refinery has been extinguished. Unfortunately, four of our employees were injured. They have all been taken to the regional burn center, where all necessary medical aid is being provided. Regretfully, one of our colleagues is in critical condition. All relevant assistance and support will be provided both to our injured colleagues and their families.

Oil refining has been temporarily suspended. The cause of the fire and the damages which were incurred are being determined. Upon completion of all required procedures, work will commence to resume facility operations.

The tank farm has sufficient product to ensure stable supply to consumers. At the same time, we would like to thank the adjacent enterprises that have expressed their readiness to help prevent petroleum product shortage in the region.”