Petrochemicals company Astron Energy has confirmed that two people were killed and seven injured in a fire at its 100 000 bbl/d Milnerton refinery, in the Western Cape, in the early hours of July 2.
The company immediately activated its emergency response procedures and notified the relevant authorities when the incident occurred. The fire has been contained and the plant stabilised.
Astron assures the public that there is no immediate threat to fuel supplies because of the incident and no danger to surrounding communities.
The injured are receiving treatment in hospital and the company says all steps are being taken to support the families, friends and colleagues of those who died, as well as those who were injured.
The company is conducting a full investigation of the incident.