API OKs use of blowdown drums at U.S. refineries

HOUSTON, May 14 (Reuters) - The American Petroleum Institute said in revised safety recommendations issued to U.S. refiners Wednesday that blowdown drums, like that at the center of the deadly 2005 explosion at BP's (BP.L: Quote, Profile, Research) giant Texas refinery, are still a viable method for pressure relief if safely operated.

The March 23, 2005, explosion at BP's Texas City, Texas, refinery took place when volatile hydrocarbon liquid overfilled a blowdown drum and ignited in a blast that killed 15 workers and injured 180 other people. (Reporting by Erwin Seba)