Large Martinez refinery fire blamed on lack of contractor personnel, insufficient training and supervision

A February explosion and massive fire at a Martinez refinery happened because there were not enough contracted workers and insufficient training and supervision for those who were hired to do the work, according to the draft report submitted to the county’s health department by a consultant.

Contractors also exceeded the timing of a work permit, another reason the Feb. 1 blaze at the Martinez Refining Company began, according to the report. The refinery is located on Pacheco Avenue.