Toxic leak from plant (From Barry And District News)

Toxic leak from plant

A BARRY firm has been ordered to improve safeguards after a plume of toxic chemicals escaped from its plant.

The plume dispersed before it got outside the works and checks have found there was no harm to human health or the local environment.

But Zeon Chemicals Europe Limited, based on Sully Moors Road, has been told it must improve inspection and maintenance procedures.

The incident happened on July 19 this year when about 1.5 tonnes of an organic chemical was released from an emergency relief valve at the plant, which makes rubber products.

The Environment Agency said company staff responded rapidly and took emergency action to isolate and stop the emission.

An investigation by the Agency found that the release occurred "as a result of failings in the company's operation and maintenance procedures".

A statement from the Agency said: "No harm to human health or the environment occurred, as demonstrated by assessments conducted by the company and reviewed by officers of the Agency and the Health and Safety Executive.

"The enforcement notice requires the company to introduce inspection and maintenance procedures for the polymerisation vessels and the associated processes and to review and improve the design, construction, maintenance and operation of all polymerisation activities on site. These improvements must be completed by September 1, 2004.

"The Agency takes incidents such as these very seriously, because unauthorised releases have the potential to cause significant adverse effects upon the local environment.

"On this occasion, there was no long term environmental damage but we still require Zeon Chemicals Europe Limited to make improvements to help ensure that there is no repeat of uncontrolled emissions."

Anyone who sees pollution, illegal tipping of waste, poaching, fish in distress or a danger to the natural environment should contact the Agency's 24-hour emergency hotline, free of charge and in confidence.

The number is 0800 80 70 60. Alternatively, visit the website www.environment-agency.wales.gov.uk