Chevron U.S.A., Inc., pleaded no contest to a criminal complaint alleging six violations of the California labor and health and safety codes relating to an August 2012 fire at its refinery in Richmond. The fire was caused when a pipe ruptured, releasing a flammable fluid which vaporized and ignited. Chevron was convicted of failing to correct deficiencies in equipment and continuing to use equipment which was outside acceptable limits; failing to prevent non-emergency personnel from entering the emergency area; failing to implement an effective injury and illness prevention program to protect employees from an imminent hazard; and failing to require the use of protective equipment by employees. Chevron was also convicted of two violations of the health and safety code for the negligent emission of air contaminants. The plea agreement included $2 million in fines, restitution, and costs and three and a half years of probation.