Charleston, Tennessee – A chemical plant in Charleston, Tennessee is facing a lawsuit alleging that it knowingly exposed more than a hundred workers and their family members to hazardous levels of mercury. The lawsuit, described as a ‘mass tort’, was filed this week by over 150 plaintiffs, with the expectation that the number will surpass 200.
The plant in question is operated by Olin Chlor-Alkali. The lawsuit claims that the company’s Charleston site used the mercury cell method, which involved the recirculation of elemental mercury. According to the lawsuit, this process potentially exposed employees and contractors to dangerously high levels of mercury and mercury vapor. The entire production facility is said to have been contaminated with mercury vapor.
High exposure to mercury is a significant concern for public health, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Mercury is listed as one of the top ten chemicals or groups of chemicals of major concern due to its serious medical implications. Furthermore, the Hiwassee River’s watershed, where the plant is located, has been deemed “impaired” by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) due to the presence of mercury in the water.
The lawsuit also alleges that the plant has been the subject of previous complaints and has been responsible for a major release of chlorine into the Hiwassee River. However, no major reports on the Charleston plant or its environmental impact have been published by the EPA, according to the lawsuit.
Olin Chlor-Alkali has been approached for comment regarding the lawsuit, and this article will be updated with any response received.
In summary, a chemical plant in Charleston, Tennessee is facing legal action for allegedly exposing its workers and their families to hazardous levels of mercury. The lawsuit highlights the potential health risks associated with high mercury exposure and raises concerns about the plant’s impact on the local environment. Olin Chlor-Alkali’s response to the allegations is awaited.