Odfjell shuts down Rotterdam terminal

Odfjell has agreed to a controlled shutdown of its Rotterdam terminal within the next 24 hours.The move comes as a response to increasing concerns over safety at the facility and after consultation with local authorities and fire services.

All fire fighting systems on site will be verified prior to operations starting again. This means no truck, rail, barge or ship movements will be reinitiated until the integrity of the respective fire fighting equipment of the tanks have been verified. Only movements to process industries with risk of plant shutdowns will continue under enhanced safety measures in cooperation with the authorities.

All the cooling and extinguishing equipments on more than 140 tanks with carbon steel pipes will be replaced by new ones. At the same time maintenance will be carried out, when necessary, on other parts of the tanks. All tanks at the Odfjell terminal (OTR) will be in full compliance with legislation and regulations and also with the PGS 29 guideline. PGS 29 is the guideline for large above-ground tank installations in which flammable liquids are stored. PGS 29 exceeds current legislation and regulations with respect to safety and the environment.

"These measures have a great impact on business operations," the company says. "Customers that have products stored in the tanks are being informed at present. OTR appreciates the continuous support by our customers to put safety first and we are working together with them to find safe solutions for their needs. In cooperation with customers, OTR will make every effort to reach good and safe alternative solutions.

"We regret the concerns that we have caused in the local community and we hope that this safety shutdown and plan going forward will put the minds at ease."

Laurence Odfjell, chairman of the board of Odfjell SE, adds: "Safety and the environment has the highest priority within Odfjell throughout the world. The current situation at OTR does not reflect the values of Odfjell. Our commitment is to do whatever is necessary to bring OTR up to industry standards. In the time ahead I will be present at OTR to give my full attention and support to the needed improvements."