Chevron Refinery Fails Health Risk Thresholds: Richmond Residents Face Elevated Cancer and Short-Term Risks

The Contra Costa Air District has released a preliminary health risk assessment for the Chevron Refinery in Richmond, California. The study found that people living near the refinery face elevated cancer and short-term health risks due to air pollution emissions.

According to the assessment, the estimated maximum cancer risk from air emissions is 37 in a million, which exceeds the Air District's threshold of 10 in a million. Dr. Philip Fine, executive officer of the Air District, stated that 'these findings give the Richmond community clear, science-based information about the health risks from refinery air pollution emissions.'

The assessment attributes most of the cancer risk to benzo[a]pyrene, which escapes through small leaks at pipe fittings and storage tanks across the refinery. The short-term risk is primarily driven by benzene evaporating from the refinery's wastewater treatment system.

Chevron must submit a plan to reduce health risks if the preliminary assessment findings are confirmed. The public will have an opportunity to comment on Chevron's plan, which could be implemented in response to the Air District's findings. A public meeting is scheduled for September 21 at Richmond Memorial Auditorium & Convention Center.