BLAINE, Wash. -- The Department of Labor and Industries has cited the BP Cherry Point Refinery in Blaine for six safety violations, including one “willful” violation related to last February's fire.

Elaine Fischer with L&I says the fire occurred when a corroded "deadleg" pipe ruptured.



Fischer says BP failed to prove that the pipes were inspected and tested using practices accepted by the American Petroleum Institute.

The “willful” violation is the most significant penalty that L&I can issue to an employer.

The five additional violations were for failing to comply with requirements for hazardous chemicals.

The proposed penalties total $81,500.

One employee was nearby when February's fire erupted but escaped without harm.