U.S. Department of Labor Fines Chemical Manufacturer For Exposing Workers to Toxic Gas

NEW CASTLE, DE – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited Croda Inc. after a chemical release at the New Castle, Delaware, manufacturing plant exposed workers to ethylene oxide. The company faces $262,548 in penalties.

OSHA initiated an inspection after the exposure hospitalized one employee and left five others suffering symptoms of ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure. The Agency cited Croda Inc. for 25 serious violations, including deficient emergency action and response plans; failure to train employees on how to manage EtO leaks; and the use of fire protection, water deluge systems, and emergency shutdown procedures. The company also failed to develop procedures for emergency responders to manage firewater amid an EtO release, activate the emergency alarm system, and provide employees with respiratory protection.

"This incident could have been prevented if the employer had taken appropriate precautions," said OSHA Area Director Erin G. Patterson, in Wilmington, Delaware. "By failing to follow well-known safety and health procedures, and provide training, they risked the health of their workers."

Following receipt of the citations, Croda Inc. requested an informal conference with OSHA, and is working to reach a settlement with the Agency.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to help ensure these conditions for American working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education, and assistance. For more information, visit https://www.osha.gov.