CSB Investigating Deadly Chemical Leak at Texas Plant

A chemical leak at a plant in La Porte, Texas, left two people dead and another 30 injured on July 27.

Approximately 100,000 lb of acetic acid was released while maintenance was being performed at the LyondellBasell facility. Two contract employees were fatally injured, and 30 other personnel were transported to medical facilities for evaluation or treatment. One person remains hospitalized as of August 3.

An investigation team from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board traveled to the La Porte facility. The immediate area of the release was not accessible directly following the incident due the presence of hazardous materials released as result of the incident. The CSB, OSHA and LyondellBasell agreed to manage site control and access to preserve evidence. While on-site, the CSB investigation team will conduct witness interviews, document the incident scene and obtain records to assist in the investigation.

LyondellBasell is a Dutch-based producer of chemicals and plastics.

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