Buncefield report finds flaws in training and advice for oil industry staff

Unions have called for improved training and advice for staff in the oil industry following the publication of the fifth report by the Buncefield Major Incident Investigation Board.

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The report challenged the industry to strengthen safety standards at UK sites handling large quantities of fuel to prevent another disaster like the Buncefield oil-storage depot explosions, which hospitalised 60 people in 2005. It focuses on factors such as training, competence, defining appropriate workloads, staffing and working conditions for front-line personnel.

Ron Webb, national secretary for transport at the Transport and General Workers’ Union said: “Our members have their responsibilities, but that means they also need properly resourced training, advice and ongoing support from employers who recognise their responsibilities too.