RICHMOND, Calif., Jan 15, 2007 /PRNewswire via COMTEX News Network/ -- Chevron (NYSE: CVX) Richmond Refinery officials report that a fire within the crude separating unit has been contained and Contra Costa Health Services at 8:40 a.m. PST lifted their shelter-in-place for local residents.

The fire occurred at approximately 5:15 a.m. PST and was responded to by Chevron's own fire department and local emergency services. The fire was contained at 7:50 a.m. PST and is now being allowed to extinguish itself.

One employee sustained minor burns and has been treated and released from hospital. The employee has since returned to work.

The cause of the incident is under investigation.

Dean O'Hair, Chevron Richmond Refinery External Affairs Manager said, "We don't expect this event to affect the current production plan at the refinery, since the crude unit was at the beginning of a planned maintenance cycle, however at this time we don't know the full extent of the damage. We would also like to acknowledge the support we received from other emergency responders who helped us with this incident."

SOURCE Chevron Corporation

Richmond Refinery Public Affairs, +1-510-242-4507

http://www.chevron.com/