While it may be true that the safety practices at the Anacortes refineries are sub-standard (I assume the investigations will reveal the extent) it is also true that refineries as a group are among the most dangerous places to work. Details in the Seattle Times today.
Someone asked me if I heard the explosion. I was in bed at the time, I think, but one of the county commissioners lives near the refinery and he did not hear the explosion either, due to the high winds at the time.
I am sad for the families in my community who are affected by this tragedy. As far as I know, I have no connection to any of the dead or injured.
Warren