09/07/2006

Situation in Caldas de Reis significantly eased

On Friday, September 1, 2006, the facilities of chemicals distributor Brenntag, in the Spanish town of Caldas de Reis, were almost completely destroyed as a result of a fire. While initial contamination was carried into a nearby river by fire-fighting water, subsequent swift actions taken jointly by local authorities and fire fighters in conjunction with Brenntag personnel, have brought the situation under control.  According to a statement today from Manuel Vàzquez of the environmental authority, Conselleiro de Medio Ambiente, the water is now clean and suitable for use.

 

A series of dikes were constructed to collect the contaminated water into basins while allowing the uncontaminated river to flow around them.  The contaminated water in the basins is cleaned in three purification steps using active carbon, a supply of oxygen and the use of sand filters. According to analyses conducted by the fisheries authority, Conselleria de Pesca, the containment of the contamination in the dikes was successful and there was no impairment of the fishing grounds off the Galician coast.

 

Separately, clean-up work is progressing at the company’s facility where contractors have begun disposal of the remnants of the fire. Brenntag has operated for 23 years in Caldas de Reis. As recently as this year, the required permits for the storage of chemicals were renewed by the appropriate regulatory agencies.  While the facility undergoes clean-up and remediation, Brenntag is taking all necessary measures to ensure ongoing smooth deliveries to its customers formerly served from the site.

 

Samples taken by the authorities last Monday indicated that the water from the Umia River contained elevated levels of toluene, xylene and styrene due to the entry of fire-fighting water. By Wednesday, values were considerably below the initial readings.  Samples of water flowing from the treatment basins indicated a safe quality and the responsible authorities agreed to the  reintroduction of the purified water back into the river.

 

Recently, Daniel Pithois, member of the Executive Board of Brenntag and responsible for the European operations, visited the site to ensure that Brenntag was responding with diligence to all situations created by this regrettable event.  Pithois express his gratitude to the emergency services and the local authorities for their superior support and excellent cooperation.  He also thanked the Brenntag employees who contributed substantial expertise as well as working around the clock to expedite the restoration process.