Oklahoma Oil Production Facility Fined for Spill Prevention Violations
EPA has fined Oakland Petroleum Operating Company Inc. $1,300 for violating federal Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) regulations outlined under the Clean Water Act. A federal inspection of an oil production facility located in Osage County, Oklahoma, on April 6, 2009, found the facility's field drainage system, oil traps, sumps, and skimmers were not regularly inspected and oil not properly removed.
The inspection also revealed excessive vegetation that affects the integrity and/or walls of containment systems were slightly eroded and had low areas, and visual inspection of containers, foundation, and supports were not conducted periodically for deterioration and maintenance needs. Furthermore, according to EPA, aboveground valves and pipelines as well as brine and saltwater disposal facilities were not examined periodically for general condition.
As part of an Expedited Settlement Agreement with EPA, the facility has provided certification that all identified deficiencies have been corrected. Additional information on SPCC regulations is available at www.epa.gov/oilspill.