After neighbors to Chalmette Exxon Refinery woke up Sunday morning to an oily substance coating their
vehicles, the refinery has set up a hotline for affected residents to report claims.

DEQ spokesperson Rodney Mallet stated that the release occurred as a result of a valve malfunction that caused a leak of approximately 36 barrels on site. The leaked oil was then picked up by heavy, dense fog
in the area, which traveled north of the refinery and covered many vehicles with a slick oily substance.
Chalmette Refinery Manager of Governmental Affairs Patrick Trahan confirmed the early Sunday morning mishap, and says that as far as health concerns go, residents should not have much to worry about.

“It’s crude oil, so this level of exposure is not expected to cause harm to people or pets,” said Trahan. “We
apologize for any inconvenience, and we’re meeting individually with residents to work on claims.”

“Right now it appears that it is more of a nuisance for vehicles,” said Mallet.

Councilman Richie Lewis, whose district includes the refinery, met with refinery officials Wednesday morning.

“When people make their claims, a refinery official will come out and document everything,” said Lewis. “After the claim is made and confirmed they have plans to come out and clean up.”

Lewis says residents who were affected by the oil release should call 1.855.276.2409.