2010
BP is a VERY slow learner
Yesterday, BP once again earned the dubious distinction of a “biggest-ever” record—this time the biggest-ever fine by the U.S. government for safety violations—$87 million for 709 violations at its Texas City refinery, including 270 citations for failing to fix hazards identified at the refinery (following a 2005 explosion in which 15 workers were killed), and 439 additional “willful and egregious” violations of standard safety controls at the refinery.
It is astonishing to read that “BP is continuing to contest $30.7 million in proposed penalties for the 439 new safety violations that OSHA inspectors found.” It seems likely this stance will add to the already high level of public outrage against the company.
If BP’s behavior on this front is any indication of the future, it certainly bodes poorly for its employees, who must continue to work in unsafe conditions, as well as for shareholders and the environment.
Tagged safety