An explosion and fire that destroyed the ChemCentral facility in Kansas City MO February 7 has led to a civil complaint filed by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), according to EPA information.
The explosion occurred when ChemCentral was transferring Indopol, a fuel additive used in sealants, coatings, lubricants, cling film, and adhesives. Indopol is a trade name for polybutene. EPA’s investigation found that ChemCentral violated the Clean Air Act by failing to identify chemical hazards and failing to design and maintain a safe facility.
EPA also found that ChemCentral violated the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act by failing to submit a chemical inventory form for Indopol to the local emergency planning committee, the state emergency response commission, and the local fire department. The inventory, due by March 1 each year, provides information on chemical storage locations and physical or health hazards, which is critical for emergency planning and first response activities, EPA said.
ChemCentral could be liable for penalties of up to $32,500 per day for each violation of the two laws. The complaint proposes a penalty of $434,260. EPA’s complaint also requires the facility to comply with regulations.