BPCL-kr, one of the country’s major refineries, has previously maintained a strong record on workplace safety, reportedly logging over 85 million man-hours without a lost-time accident
A high-level committee appointed in the wake of a fire at Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited’s Kochi Refinery (BPCL-KR) is expected to submit its preliminary report within three days, according to officials familiar with the development.
The incident, which occurred earlier this month, triggered a safety review at the refinery. The committee is tasked with identifying the cause of the fire, assessing the adequacy of the refinery’s current safety mechanisms, and recommending immediate steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
BPCL-KR, one of the country’s major refineries, has previously maintained a strong record on workplace safety, reportedly logging over 85 million man-hours without a lost-time accident. However, the recent fire has raised questions about the robustness of its emergency preparedness and hazard response systems.
Sources indicate the committee is also examining the refinery’s fire safety infrastructure, including on-site fire stations and emergency drills, which are integral to operational safety. BPCL-KR management has not revealed the composition of the committee but said it includes experienced engineers and safety professionals.
Operations at the refinery continue under increased supervision, with additional fire safety measures being implemented as a precaution. Officials stated that temporary arrangements would remain in place until the committee’s recommendations are reviewed and acted upon.
The report, once submitted, is expected to serve as a roadmap for strengthening internal protocols and could potentially inform broader regulatory updates on industrial safety standards in the sector. BPCL has committed to making the findings public and to adopting all necessary measures to enhance safety at the facility.
