This article is from page 19 of the 2014-03-04 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 19 JPG
A SHANNON based company has been ordered to fund a third level science scholarship after pleading guilty to health and safety breaches.
Seven people were hospitalised after the accidental release of a “toxic” and “corrosive” gas at Chemifloc, Smithstown Industrial Estate, Shannon on December 20, 2012.
Details of the accident were heard at Ennis District Court on Friday.
Inspector Dermot O’Callaghan of the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), told the court that 6000 litres of sodium chloride were being loaded onto a tanker for delivery on the day in question.
Insp O’Connor said that after the loading of the fourth container, a yel- low green chlorine dioxide gas was produced, “which is classified and toxic and corrosive”.
The warehouse and yard were evacuated and emergency services were called to the scene.
A number of people were hospitalized and one person spent two days in intensive care, the court heard.
Insp O’Callaghan explained that an investigation determined that an unknown and unidentifiable container was accidentally loaded beside the sodium chloride, which led to production of the gas.
Chemifloc pleaded guilty to failing to ensure that all containers used at work for hazardous chemical agents were clearly labeled or identified.
The company also pleaded guilty to failing to manage and conduct work activities in such a way as to ensure, as was reasonably practicable, the health and safety of employees.
The offences are contrary to the Safety, Health and Welfare Act Work Act, 2005.
Solicitor James Nash said his clients had acknowledged the accident. He said it had resulted from a “systems error” and the company have fully changed their labeling system at the plant.
The company has no previous convictions. Mr Nash said the company, who were represented in court by the managing director and another director, were embarrassed by what happened and would suffer a 70 per cent jump in insurance costs.
He said Chemifloc had always been compliant with health and safety regulations.
“They are both here. They are both embarrassed to be here and they want to take it on the chin”, he added.
Judge Patrick Durcan said this was a very serious matter.
However he noted this was a local company that provides employment and has complied with every regulation and law.
He said if Chemifloc funded a € 10,000 third level science scholarship and discharged total witness and legal costs of 4714 euros, he would strike out the summonses.
He adjourned the case to March 14. Founded in 1982, Chemifloc employs 40 people.
The company is involved in the manufacture and supply of water treatment products.