The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a consent decree in a complaint against Tyson Foods Inc. (NYSE: TSN) related to multiple releases of anhydrous ammonia at 23 Tyson facilities in 4 states. The settlement includes payment of a fine totaling $3.95 million among other actions that Tyson must take.
The releases of anhydrous ammonia resulted in multiple injuries, property damage, and one fatality according to the EPA. Anhydrous ammonia is classified as an “extremely hazardous substance” under regulations promulgated by the U.S. Clean Air Act.
In addition to the fine, Tyson has agreed to purchase $300,000 worth of emergency response equipment for communities in which the company operates. The company will also be required to conduct third-party audits and must correct any violations found by the auditors and certify that the work has been completed.
According to the EPA, Tyson’s various facilities hold a combined inventory of 1.7 million pounds of anhydrous ammonia, a poisonous gas exposure to which can cause temporary blindness and eye damage as well as other symptoms. Prolonged exposure to the substance can cause serious lung damage and, in extreme cases, death.
Shares of Tyson are down about 2.9% at $23.99 in a 52-week range of $14.07 to $25.10.
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