Editor:
A recent letter (“Woodfibre LNG is wrong,” June 25) raises questions about Woodfibre LNG Limited’s compliance with standards established by the Society of International Gas Tanker and Terminal Operators (SIGTTO). I would like to take this opportunity to make clear that the proposed Woodfibre LNG facility absolutely complies in every way with the standards set out by SIGTTO.
In the letter, the writer cites concerns about “hazard zones,” saying they are important SIGTTO standards that we will not meet. The fact is that SIGTTO has no such “hazard zones” in its standards – something we have verified directly with SIGTTO since the letter appeared.
The letter also raises concerns about malfunctions, and more specifically about containment breaches. I think it is very important to note that LNG has been safely shipped around the world for more than 50 years, and that there has never been a recorded incident involving a loss of containment of an LNG carrier at sea. Moreover, should a loss of containment ever take place, the LNG would turn to a gas that would dissipate into the air and that could never explode unless forced into a confined space with a specific ratio between the air and the gas. A spark would also need to be present.
At Woodfibre LNG, we understand how important it is to build a project that is right for the surrounding community. That’s why we have worked hard to identify a site that is not only safe, but that is also well suited for exporting LNG. If your readers have any questions about the project, they can learn more at our website woodfibrelng.ca or ask questions of our project experts at askwoodfibrelng.ca
For further information on SIGTTO readers are encouraged to visit www.SIGTTO.org
John French, community relations manager, Woodfibre LNG Limited
