Corroded pipe was source of Southwest Philadelphia refinery blast, federal agency finds

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A federal agency released its final report into the Philadelphia Energy Solutions refinery explosion that rocked southwest Philadelphia in June 2019.

The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board found a corroded pipe was the source of the blast.
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One of the most dangerous aspects of the incident was the release of more than 5,000 pounds of hydroflouric acid into the air.

Five people were injured in the blast.
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It caused $750 million in damage, which shut down the refinery and eliminated 1,000 jobs.

As a result of the investigation, the safety board is recommending the Environmental Protection Agency strengthen safeguards surrounding the use of hydroflouric acid and improve oversight.