SEPT 2 TUESDAY

Crude oil traded near its lowest in five months

as producers and refiners prepare to restart output

at fcilities after Hurricane Gaustav passed the

U.S Gulf Coast without causing major damage

to offshore platforms.

Royal Dutch Plc will begin checks today and may

restore full output in 3 to 5 days.

Conoco Philips said there was no significant

damage to a platform in the area.