ABERDEEN, Wash. (AP) — The Washington Department of Labor & Industries has fined Imperium Grays Harbor $11,700 for safety violations stemming from a Dec. 2 explosion at the biodiesel plant.
The Hoquiam-based refinery was cited this week for 11 serious violations, defined as those with potential to cause death or serious injury.
On Dec. 2 a 10,000-gallon glycerin tank exploded when increased levels of sulfuric acid created a reaction that overpressurized the tank. No one was injured in the explosion.
Spokesman John Williams told the Daily World Friday that Imperium is reviewing the findings. CEO John Plaza said in January the company was taking steps to prevent accidents.
State regulators found employees weren't properly trained or warned of certain chemical hazards.
The company has 15 days to appeal the citation.
