Company fined $325K for releasing toxic chemicals in Hamilton

A yellow-green cloud loomed over Burlington St. and the QEW in Hamilton in December of 2017. The coal tar vapour was released into the air because a flange had been left open at Ruetgers – a company that processes coal tar for use in steel and aluminum.

During a court proceeding on Thursday, it was revealed that workers on a tower above the coal tar pitch line were exposed to the smoke and had to be rescued by a crane. According to an agreed statement of facts, six workers received first aid treatment and some went to the hospital. Luckily, no one suffered permanent injuries.

The Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Labour investigated the incident. A lawyer representing the ministry says the fine that was handed down is substantial for Ruetgers’ first offence.

Environment Hamilton’s Lynda Lukasik says she hopes the fine serves as an example for other companies in Hamilton that have also released questionable vapours into the air. “I hope it will make people pay attention. We are always happy when we see a fine because it does act as a deterrent especially if the fine money is significant enough. Certainly $325,000 is nothing to sneeze at”.

Ruetgers did not respond for a request to comment, but in court, the defense attorney said that the company took substantial safety measures after the incident, and cooperated fully with the investigation.

All other charges against the company were withdrawn.