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DTSC says investigation into World Oil fire and odors is ongoing; temporary authorization issued for tank decommissioning
Summary
DTSC told Compton council it is investigating the May 21 fire, reviewing World Oil's permit renewal application, and issued a temporary authorization to allow treatment during removal of a large wastewater tank (T55001). The investigation is ongoing and violations—if any—have not been finalized.
The Department of Toxic Substances Control told the Compton City Council that it is conducting an active investigation into the World Oil fire incident and associated odors and is evaluating the facility's permit-renewal application.
"That investigation is still in progress," Mandy Bain, DTSC deputy director for the hazardous-waste program, said. She confirmed DTSC's enforcement division began gathering information a few days after the May 21 fire and that staff are still evaluating whether there were violations of state hazardous-waste laws.
Bain also said World Oil (also referenced as Dimino Cardoon in DTSC remarks) received a temporary authorization to close and remove a large wastewater tank identified as T55001. The company is allowed to use temporary equipment to treat and remove settled material from the bottom of that tank as part of the decommissioning process; DTSC said that temporary authorization is distinct from a full 10-year permit renewal that remains under evaluation.
DTSC committed to continued coordination with AQMD and county public health, said its enforcement review could lead to penalties or civil actions if violations are found, and recommended public meetings to explain technical permit details before the formal public comment period.
Why it matters: DTSC's active investigation and the temporary authorization to decommission a large wastewater tank are steps in an administrative process that could affect the facility's ability to operate or secure a full permit renewal. Residents asked DTSC for a thorough permit review and stronger community protections.
