This year’s overhaul included specialized operations such as the refurbishment and modernization of process equipment, pipelines, turbo-compressor units, control systems, and critical refinery components. The project relied on domestic expertise and cooperation with knowledge-based companies. These efforts have improved reliability, energy efficiency, environmental performance, and reduced unplanned shutdowns.

Beyond ensuring a steady gas supply, Fajr Jam has played a vital role in Iran’s national economy by enhancing safety, health, and environmental standards. The refinery’s investment in training and employing local youth has helped build a skilled workforce for operations and maintenance, while also strengthening the region’s resilience and long-term economic growth.

These achievements have made Fajr Jam a symbol of industrial commitment, innovation, and social responsibility in Iran’s gas sector—proving that, with strategic planning and reliance on domestic capabilities, national energy goals can be achieved even amid sanctions and restrictions.

In an interview with SHANA, Behrouz Qobadi, head of overhaul planning, and Mohammadreza Dehqan Manhshadi, head of HSE at Fajr Jam, discussed various aspects of this year’s maintenance operations.

Sustainable Development, Innovation, and Self-Sufficiency

Qobadi said the refinery’s annual overhaul began in May and concluded in late October. Four of the eight gas sweetening units underwent complete maintenance, including the repair and renewal of filters, vessels, tanks, and related equipment.

He noted that despite a 12-day interruption caused by regional tensions, the schedule remained on track, ensuring the refinery’s full operational capacity for the winter season.

Qobadi emphasized that the refinery has implemented civil defense programs and regular emergency drills in previous years, which ensured staff preparedness for challenging situations without disruption to operations.

He added that new technologies are being piloted in cooperation with neighboring refineries and local knowledge-based firms. These include chemical cleaning and process optimization technologies. The refinery also works closely with Iranian universities and engineering centers to address specialized equipment needs.

While sanctions have long affected access to foreign equipment, Ghobadi said domestic innovation and technical expertise have enabled the localization of most imported parts and machinery. As a result, the refinery faces minimal equipment shortages, and Iran’s National Gas Company continues to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.

 Resilience and Safety: Building Capacity Through Local Training

Dehqan Manhshadi, Fajr Jam’s HSE chief, said continuous overhauls in recent years have significantly improved safety, health, and environmental standards. Process-related incidents have sharply declined, and workers’ readiness and equipment reliability have increased.

He noted that water consumption during overhauls has been reduced, and all workers undergo medical checkups before assignments. Emergency preparedness protocols are continuously reviewed, with safety briefings and documentation ensuring all personnel are trained for potential crises.

According to Dehqan Manhshadi, sanctions have spurred domestic innovation—more than 80% of personal protective equipment, including helmets, shoes, and safety clothing, is now produced locally to international standards.

He added that environmental protection remains a top priority. Even minor emissions or leaks are promptly reported and addressed. The refinery has successfully preserved nearby ecosystems, including a seasonal river near the refinery town, through ongoing environmental monitoring and mitigation measures.

Before any operation begins, risks are assessed, and preventive controls are applied, Dehqan Manhshadi said. Thanks to these measures, no fatal incidents occurred last year. Modern alarm and monitoring systems, aligned with emergency protocols, guide employees to safe zones during crises—including wartime scenarios—demonstrating the refinery’s high level of preparedness.

He explained that Fajr Jam has implemented a civil defense plan since 2006, including constructing a new power plant, redesigning process lines, adding fire substations, installing CCTV systems, and upgrading the firefighting network—all aimed at enhancing resilience during emergencies.

The refinery also offers HSE training programs for local residents. Over 80% of graduates now work in firefighting departments. Recruitment policies prioritize local candidates, improving service quality and strengthening the region’s overall capacity for crisis management and sustainable development.