EPA, OSHA and Governor Deny Reports of St. Croix Refinery Restart Amid Live Video Claims

Reports have surfaced suggesting a potential reopening of the St. Croix refinery, following a live video featuring V.I. Consortium journalists and management from Port Hamilton Refining and Transportation (PHRT), the facility’s current owner, on a tour of the “man camp,” the section of the facility that serves as the housing area for staff and guests.

However, both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Justice Department (DOJ) have refuted these claims, stating that the necessary prerequisites for resuming operations have not been satisfied. The Source was alerted to reports of the refinery restart by employees working within the facility, including those with National Industrial Services (NIS), a contractor responsible for maintenance and cleanup operations at the refinery. These employees said they had been informed that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) had shut down the facility just the day before due to ongoing safety concerns, particularly the level of asbestos present on site, which they said had prompted OSHA’s visit.

Others noted that construction and cleanup efforts within the “man camp” had intensified, reportedly in preparation for an anticipated visit from U.S. President Joe Biden. The employees said they were told members of the president’s entourage might stay in the facility during the visit. A dispute between Port Hamilton and National Industrial Services is currently being litigated in federal court. Port Hamilton filed suit against NIS in August, alleging that the latter company was removing millions of dollars worth of scaffolding from the refinery. A V.I. Superior Court judge granted Port Hamilton a temporary restraining order against NIS on Aug. 23, according to court filings. The case was removed to the Southern District of Texas court in September.