2013 Qingdao oil pipeline explosion

2013 Qingdao oil pipeline explosion

Location Shandong in China
Date	22 November 2013
Location	Qingdao, Shandong, China
Deaths	62
Suspects	9

The 2013 Qingdao oil pipeline explosion occurred on 22 November 2013, ^[1] when an oil pipeline in Chinese city of Qingdao, Shandong Province, China leaked and caught fire and exploded. The blast killed at least 62 people. At least nine people were detained by the police. ^{[2] [3]}

Events Leading to Accident

• The pipeline ruptured and leaked for about 15 minutes onto a street and into the sea before it was shut off.
• Hours later, as workers cleaned up the spill, the oil caught fire and exploded in two locations
• Oil had seeped into underground utility pipes, which could have been a factor in the blasts
• Oil also caught fire as it spread over the sea

Findings

• Energy Pipeline networks and cities expanding rapidly bringing them closer – This provides opportunity for thieves and also leaving lines dangerously close to general public
• No nationwide database for pipelines
• Ineffective investigation procedures - Pipeline investigation was completed in September 2013 – but after the explosion the effectiveness of Pipeline investigation remains questionable
• Sinopec completed QHSE checks across all its facilities and found 8000 safety problems ranging from Oil and Gas Well management through to standards at rented oil storage facilities
• Subsequent nationwide pipeline safety check found similar corrosion problems throughout the nation's pipeline network

References

1. "Death Toll Rises to 47 from Chinese Oil Pipeline Explosions". Saudi Press Agency. 23 November 2013. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 31 January 2015– via Highbeam.
2. "Police detain nine after Qingdao oil blasts". Reuters. 25 November 2013. Retrieved 31 January 2015.
3. "22 Killed in Chinal Oil Pipe Explosion". Fars News Agency. 22 November 2013. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 31 January 2015.

36°02′58″N120°12′54″E / 36.0494°N 120.2150°E / 36.0494; 120.2150