Explosion and Fire at Iwakuni-Ohtake Works (#10)
July 26, 2012
Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.
Mitsui Chemicals extends heartfelt sympathy to the family of the deceased and sincerest apologies to the injured and those suffering damages to homes and property, local community residents, persons from nearby companies, the authorities, our customers, our shareholders, and all stakeholders affected by the tragic explosion and fire at the Mitsui Chemicals Iwakuni-Ohtake Works on April 22 (2:15am).
The Company updates information issued in its June 14th news release "Explosion and Fire at Iwakuni-Ohtake Works (#9) as follows.
1. Report on Damage (Homes and Property)
The Company reports that approximately 90% of the restoration and repairs to neighboring homes and property have been completed. The Company continues to undertake urgent restorations and care for persons affected by the accident.
2. Condition of Plant Operations
Currently, plants in the Iwakuni area of the Works, with exception of the Resorcinol Plant, which is the cause of the accident, and some other plants, have completed safety inspections and routine annual maintenance. Operations have resumed at most plants following confirmation of safety and conditions and with approval from authorities.
All plants in the Ohtake area have resumed routine operations.
Condition of Plant Operations at Iwakuni-Ohtake Works
| Area | Product | Operation Schedule (tentative) |
|---|---|---|
| Iwakuni | Purified terephthalic acid (PTA), PET resin, LUCANT™, HI-ZEX MILLION™, TPX™, Hi-WAX™, EXCEREX™, FTR™ | Operations have resumed |
| Cymene, Hydroquinone, Meta/Para-cresol | Early commencement under review | |
| Resorcinol | Accident investigation underway | |
| Ohtake | Mitsui MP (pellicles), Gas pipes, ARLEN™, Catalysts | Routine operations have been underway since May |
| MIBK (methyl isobutyl ketone), Milason, Himilan, Nucrel | Operations have resumed |
