LyondellBasell La Porte Chemical Leak: Company Ignored Danger

Arnold & Itkin Attorney Adam Lewis appeared on KHOU 11 to discuss the LyondellBasell chemical leak that occurred near La Porte last Tuesday. Our firm is currently representing multiple workers who were at the plant at the time of the accident that claimed the lives of two of their coworkers and injured 30 more.

The release of acetic acid occurred when a cap on a pressurized line in the acetyls unit burst, sending toxic chemicals into the air. The mixture released as a vapor, placing workers at risk of serious burns, respiratory injuries, vision loss, and other injuries.

“100,000 pounds of acid being released in a smoke type of mixture spreading through the plant. Some of them have almost broken down in tears recounting something that happen days ago,” Lewis told KHOU.

LyondellBasell Was Warned About the Chemical Leak Before the Accident

According to one company that repairs industrial leaks, LyondellBasell was aware of the problem in the acetyls unit before the acetic acid was released. That company was called in to examine the problem. However, when the company suggested that the line be repaired, LyondellBasell declined to have the work done. Instead, it called in other contractors, placing them in a terrifying situation.

“I couldn’t imagine someone looking at a wall of extremely flammable and dangerous chemical moving towards you at a rapid pace. Knowing this could be your end,” Lewis said.

LyondellBasell briefly acknowledged the incident on Friday as it reported a $2.06 billion second-quarter profit. However, it has declined to comment further because of pending litigation.

Currently, there are multiple agencies investigating the incident, including the Texas Commision on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Harris County Fire Marshall’s Office (HCFMO), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Harris County Precinct 8 Constable’s Office, and the Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM).

Our firm will also conduct its own investigation into the incident, ensuring that we’re approaching the case from every angle and demanding the compensation that our clients deserve.

“[We’re going to] have our experts go out there do our due diligence while evidence is still present and take legal evidence to preserve that evidence,” Lewis confirmed.

If you were at the LyondellBasell plant at the time of the deadly chemical leak, our team is ready to help. Contact us now at (888) 493-1629 for a free and confidential consultation. We help clients nationwide in cities such as Houston, Baytown, Sugar Land, Pasadena, Pearland, League City, La Porte, and beyond.