A Sarnia chemical company is again reporting higher than normal benzene emissions.
However, INEOS Styrolution officials say they aren’t anticipating any adverse effects.
Earlier this year, the nearby Aamjiwnaang First Nation reported benzene levels more than 400-times acceptable limits coming from the plant.
The First Nation declared a state of emergency before the environment ministry forced the company to suspend production.
INEOS Styrolution issued the following statement:
INEOS Styrolution has thoroughly investigated the reported increase in benzene emissions on Wednesday, August 29, 2024. The source of the emissions has been identified as exhaust fumes from an on-site forklift truck and is unrelated to any benzene stored at the Sarnia plant.
The updated benzene emissions limits, introduced by the MECP and ECCC in April 2024, allow for heightened sensitivity in monitoring, meaning even low levels can trigger alarms. INEOS Styrolution emphasizes that benzene stored at the facility is not the sole source of emissions within the Sarnia area.
In June, the company announced it would close the plant by 2026 after it was ordered by the province to reduce emissions.
