Maximum alert declared at Romanian oil refinery following ammonia leak

Authorities have declared a maximum alert at the oil refinery in Năvodari, Romania, after the National Environmental Guard (GNM) identified an ammonia leak at one of the plant’s facilities.

Foreign media reports indicate that the inspection, conducted between September 9 and October 6, 2025, followed multiple complaints from local residents who reported a strong, pungent odour, particularly during nighttime hours.

The GNM reported that the investigation revealed significant safety and environmental violations, including corrosion, leaks, and active ammonia emissions in the refrigeration unit. Authorities noted that the refinery operator had failed to report an ammonia leak detected in July 2025 in the chilled water system.

Beyond the primary leak, inspectors discovered uncontrolled emissions of hazardous substances and gases into the surrounding air and soil, likely caused by further corrosion and additional leaks in the system.

In response to the risks identified, the National Environmental Guard ordered the shutdown of the chiller plant for a maximum of 72 hours, prioritising repairs to the ammonia leak and ensuring the safety of the facility before resuming operations.

By Tamilla Hasanova