Shell Oil Leak at Pulau Bukom: Clean-Up Completed and Containment Efforts Successful
SINGAPORE – Shell has contained the oil leak at its Pulau Bukom refinery. Authorities confirmed that the clean-up of oil sheens in the area is now finished, as of December 28. The leak, first identified earlier this week, involved a suspected spill of refined oil products from one of Shell’s processing units.
Quick Response and Containment Measures
Authorities detected oil sheens near a wharf at Shell’s Energy and Chemical Parks on Pulau Bukom on Thursday, December 26. Shell immediately activated containment measures to control the spill. By Friday, Shell had shut down the affected oil processing unit, halting further oil release.
Initial estimates indicated that several tonnes of refined oil products, along with cooling water, leaked. However, after the shutdown, no further discharge occurred.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), the National Environment Agency (NEA), and other local agencies responded quickly. Their actions helped bring the situation under control.
Efficient Clean-Up and Ongoing Monitoring on Shell Oil Leak
Shell acted swiftly to contain the oil sheens. The company deployed booms and absorbent materials in the affected area. They also sprayed dispersants into the discharge channel to break down the oil.
MPA supported the efforts by deploying three patrol crafts on Friday. This expedited the clean-up, ensuring the removal of oil sheens from the waters surrounding Pulau Bukom. Authorities confirmed that no new oil patches appeared, and Sentosa’s waters remained unaffected.
As a precaution, authorities placed oil-absorbent booms around Sisters’ Islands Marine Park and Sentosa’s beaches. The beaches remain open for public use.
Investigation Underway
While clean-up efforts have concluded, authorities continue to investigate the leak’s cause. The NEA and MPA are working with Shell to determine the source of the spill. Shell has pledged full cooperation in the investigation.
In a separate statement, Shell emphasized its commitment to improving safety: “We continue to work with the authorities and will learn from this incident to enhance our safety performance.”
No Risk to Public Safety
Authorities have assured the public that the spill posed no immediate threat to safety. The situation was assessed as minor, with no impact on environmentally sensitive areas. Experts praised the quick response, which helped prevent further damage.
Conclusion
The successful containment of the Shell oil leak at Pulau Bukom highlights the importance of quick, effective action in managing industrial spills. As authorities continue their investigation, Shell has committed to improving its safety measures to prevent future incidents.
