2013 Qingdao oil pipeline explosion

The 2013 Qingdao oil pipeline explosion occurred on 22 November 2013, when an oil pipeline in Chinese city of Qingdao, Shandong Province, China leaked and caught fire and exploded. The blast killed at least 62 people. At least nine people were detained by the police.

Events Leading to Accident

 * The pipeline ruptured and leaked for about 15 minutes onto a street and into the sea before it was shut off.
 * Hours later, as workers cleaned up the spill, the oil caught fire and exploded in two locations
 * Oil had seeped into underground utility pipes, which could have been a factor in the blasts
 * Oil also caught fire as it spread over the sea

Findings

 * Energy Pipeline networks and cities expanding rapidly bringing them closer – This provides opportunity for thieves and also leaving lines dangerously close to general public
 * No nationwide database for pipelines
 * Ineffective investigation procedures - Pipeline investigation was completed in September 2013 – but after the explosion the effectiveness of Pipeline investigation remains questionable
 * Sinopec completed QHSE checks across all its facilities and found 8000 safety problems ranging from Oil and Gas Well management through to standards at rented oil storage facilities
 * Subsequent nationwide pipeline safety check found similar corrosion problems throughout the nation's pipeline network