Tyson Foods Inc. announced a $4 million agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency on Friday regarding the accidental discharge of anhydrous ammonia.
Between 2006 and 2010, Tyson Foods Inc. accidentally discharged anhydrous ammonia in Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa on at least eight occasions. These accidental discharges directly led to several injuries and one death.
Anhydrous ammonia, in gas form, is used as a refrigerant. If exposed to the gas, burning of the eyes, throat, and lungs can occur. Breathing can become impeded from inhaling the gas.
As a result of these violations of the Clean Air Act, Tyson Foods Inc. agreed to pay a $4 million fine to the government. A 30-day public comment period is currently underway before the agreement is finalized.
As part of the settlement, Tyson Foods Inc. will provide $300,000 in equipment to help emergency response teams in the Midwest respond to leaks of anhydrous ammonia and other hazardous gases used by the company.
Since 2010, Tyson Foods Inc. had upgraded their refrigeration systems and improved their audit program. Their new systems are considered a model for the industry to follow.
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