ANACORTES, WA -- June 19, 2010-- At approximately 9:15 a.m. today, a small pinhole leak was identified in a heater on the Catalytic Reformer Unit at the Puget Sound Refinery.  Operators were in the process of isolating and shutting down the heater for repairs when the problem worsened and a small amount of hydrocarbon caught on fire.  At 10:35 a.m Emergency Response Personnel were called out.  The fire was quickly contained and the all clear was given at 10:45 a.m.

No injuries or impact to the surrounding community have been reported, and all refinery personnel are accounted for. The refinery continues to operate normally.

All media inquiries relating to this incident should be directed to Shell Puget Sound Refinery Public Information Officer Jody Barnett, who can be reached at (360) 293-0845 or (360) 672-7690.

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