Irving Oil Announces $135 Million Turnaround at Saint John Refinery
'Operation Red Fox’ will have more than 2,400 workers dedicated to the project
SAINT JOHN, NB — On September 26, Irving Oil will begin its 2016 fall turnaround project at its Saint John Refinery. ‘Operation Red Fox’ represents an investment of $135 million over a six-week time frame and will have 2,400 workers working on the project. The additional workforce will be comprised mainly of tradespeople, including boilermakers, electricians, labourers, scaffolders, pipefitters and many other skilled workers. Throughout the project, Operation Red Fox personnel will work in shifts around the clock to accomplish various maintenance and infrastructure projects to increase the overall efficiency and performance of the Saint John refinery.
“Turnarounds are often months, if not years, in the planning and we appreciate the work of our people and our partners to make a project of this scope successful,” says Mark Sherman, Chief Operating Officer at Irving Oil. “We’re looking forward to getting started on Operation Red Fox, which is a symbol of our commitment to investing in our facilities and the community we call home.”
“We look forward to welcoming skilled workers and tradespeople back for this year’s turnaround,” says Dale Cooper, General Manager of Refining and Feedstocks. “Many of the workers – most of whom come from across New Brunswick - look forward to returning for this annual project; we appreciate the warm welcome our team and community extends while they’re here.”
The $135 million private investment in the refinery is expected to result in more than $15 million in benefits for the local Saint John economy. These benefits will include boosts to short-term accommodation rentals, recreation services, retail and other local spending. In addition, the total workforce hours on the project represent the equivalent of 417 annualized jobs.
Safety is a core value at Irving Oil, and all turnaround crew members will be participating in extensive safety training orientation sessions prior to beginning work. Daily safety audits and additional onsite safety specialists will also ensure the refinery’s strong safety culture is maintained throughout the project.
About Irving Oil
Irving Oil was founded in 1924 and is a privately owned refining and marketing company with a history of long-term partnerships and relationships. Irving Oil operates Canada’s largest refinery, in Saint John NB, which is located 65 miles north of the US border and has reached production rates in excess of 320,000 barrels per day. The refinery exports over 80 per cent of its production to the US and accounts for 75 per cent of Canada’s gasoline exports to the US and 19 per cent of all US gasoline imports.
Media Contact:
Andrew Carson
Director, Public Affairs
Irving Oil
andrew.carson@irvingoil.com
506.651.3827