Chalmette Refinery Release
The September 6th release of spent-catalyst in Chalmette resulted in 2,000 pounds of a white powdery substance being discharged into the air in Southeast Louisiana. Chalmette Refining LLC, the named defendant in suits related to the release, faults a power outage as the cause of the discharge. The thousands of powder, which came to cover homes and property in white, has led to conflicting reports of its safety, prompting concur for many.
While Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality spokesman Rodney Mallett has stated the catalyst is "nothing more than an irritant and a nuisance," the fact sheet issued by the refinery to the DEQ regarding the substance notes that cleanup would require citizens to use rubber gloves and protective safety glasses. As such, it is not hard to see that, with special precautions required when coming into contact with the substance, safety and problems related to the powder do exist. What's more, a safety sheet describing the material states "If clothing or footwear become contaminated with the product, remove it and completely decontaminate it before re-use, or discard it."
As the problem related to the release was caused by a power outage at the refinery, Chalmette Refining LLC will be held responsible not only by the Department of Environmental Quality but in a court of law as well. Because the powder fell upon property throughout the area, the damage that resulted remains unclear. However, it has also been reported that the catalyst can aggravate existing respiratory problems so health issues related to contact is possible and dangerous.
The Berniard Law Firm has extensive experience representing clients in the event of a chemical release, including the release of ethyl acrylate by Dow Hahnville years ago. As a personal injury attorney that has helped clients be compensated millions for their losses, our firm's success rate and interest in making sure our client's get the compensation they deserve means you can trust us with your legal claim.
For more information about your rights related to property damage or health problems relating to the spill, please call our offices at 504-527-6225 or click here to discuss with an attorney immediately your rights relating to this matter.
While Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality spokesman Rodney Mallett has stated the catalyst is "nothing more than an irritant and a nuisance," the fact sheet issued by the refinery to the DEQ regarding the substance notes that cleanup would require citizens to use rubber gloves and protective safety glasses. As such, it is not hard to see that, with special precautions required when coming into contact with the substance, safety and problems related to the powder do exist. What's more, a safety sheet describing the material states "If clothing or footwear become contaminated with the product, remove it and completely decontaminate it before re-use, or discard it."
As the problem related to the release was caused by a power outage at the refinery, Chalmette Refining LLC will be held responsible not only by the Department of Environmental Quality but in a court of law as well. Because the powder fell upon property throughout the area, the damage that resulted remains unclear. However, it has also been reported that the catalyst can aggravate existing respiratory problems so health issues related to contact is possible and dangerous.
The Berniard Law Firm has extensive experience representing clients in the event of a chemical release, including the release of ethyl acrylate by Dow Hahnville years ago. As a personal injury attorney that has helped clients be compensated millions for their losses, our firm's success rate and interest in making sure our client's get the compensation they deserve means you can trust us with your legal claim.
For more information about your rights related to property damage or health problems relating to the spill, please call our offices at 504-527-6225 or click here to discuss with an attorney immediately your rights relating to this matter.
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