OSHA has reached a settlement with AB Specialty Silicones LLC over the explosion and fire at its plant in Waukegan, Illinois, which caused the death of four workers. An OSHA investigation concluded that the company, which manufactures chemical products, failed to ensure electrical equipment complied with OSHA standards. Additionally, AB Specialty Silicones was found to be using propane-powered forklifts to transport flammable liquids in areas where employees handled flammable liquids and gases. Per the settlement, the company has agreed to implement a range of safety initiatives, including:
- Temporarily ceasing production and use of silicon-hydride emulsions at all facilities
- Having an engineering firm design a new process area for production
- Developing a company-wide safety and health management system
- Providing safety training to employees
- Purchasing industrial trucks properly rated for handling flammable materials
Additionally, AB Specialty Silicones must pay $1.3 million in penalties in 12 quarterly installments through September 1, 2027.
What people are saying
In a recent quote, OSHA Regional Administrator Bill Donovan said, “This agreement will never replace the four workers lost in this preventable tragedy, but it’s a step in the right direction. OSHA will continue to hold AB Specialty Silicones accountable for improving their safety culture by working with industry experts, and both management and employees to develop and continually test safety measures, emergency response procedures and training employees in hazard recognition.”
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