Texas Petrochemical Company Penalized $30 Million for Violating Clean Air Act in Wake of 2019 Explosion, Forcing Evacuation
A Texas petrochemical company has pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Air Act and agreed to pay more than $30 million in connection with two explosions that injured workers and prompted hundreds to evacuate, the Justice Department announced on Tuesday.
According to AP News, explosions at a TPC Group business in the coastal city of Port Neches forced the evacuation of approximately 50,000 people on the day before Thanksgiving 2019. The area is about 100 miles (160 kilometers) from Houston.
Petrochemical Company Fined for Massive Plant Explosion in 2019
According to a DOJ press release, the explosions released more than 11 million pounds of highly hazardous substances, resulting in more than $130 million in offsite property damage, as well as further harm to human health and the environment. TPC Group pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Air Act and will pay more than $30 million in fines and penalties.
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Furthermore, the corporation has pledged to invest around $80 million to strengthen its risk management program and increase safety at its Port Neches and Houston locations. The Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency made the statement on Tuesday.
The Explosion Resulted in Almost $130 Million in Damages
“TPC Group’s knowing failure to comply with the chemical accident prevention provisions of the Clean Air Act at its Port Neches and Houston facilities endangered its workers, neighbors, and the environment,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division.
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According to Fox News, the explosions released approximately 11 million pounds of very toxic compounds and caused more than $130 million in damage to offshore properties, among other detrimental consequences on human health and the environment.
Final Words
The Texas petrochemical company’s guilty plea for Clean Air Act violations resulting from explosions in Port Neches highlights the serious effects of industrial mishaps. With nearly 11 million pounds of hazardous compounds spilled and substantial property damage, the tragedy emphasizes the necessity of regulatory compliance and safety precautions. The company’s pledge to invest $80 million in safety improvements demonstrates a commitment to averting repeat disasters, but continued vigilance is critical for worker and environmental protection.