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Two of
our sites are governed by the SEVESO
directive.
These are the two sites in Belgium, at Engis
(near Liège) and Puurs (near Antwerp). |
Engis
and Seveso:
The nature of our activities means that we
have to store and handle ammonia (NH3) and sulphur dioxide
(SO2) at our Engis site. Ammonia, for example, is used as
a raw material in manufacturing soluble fertilisers for domestic
use, while sulphur dioxide is used as a bleaching agent (in
sugar
refineries
and the paper industry etc.). Since these products appear
on the list of dangerous substances covered by the Seveso
II Directive, the entire site is governed by it.
Puurs
and Seveso:
Our site at Puurs is also governed by the
Seveso Directive for some of its products:
- as at Engis, at Puurs we also handle and store sulphur
dioxide (SO2);
- we also manufacture and store fluorine products, which
appear on the list of dangerous substances covered by the
Seveso Directive. These substances are used in the glass,
enamelling and ceramics industries amongst others.
Being a 'Seveso company' provides us with 'safety
guarantee label'. In fact, complying with this directive offers
us an extra guarantee in terms of safety and enhances
our commitment to responsible management.
As a Seveso company we must adhere to very strict
safety standards and undergo frequent checks by the relevant
authorities.
Potential risks are identified, analysed and controlled.
Our internal emergency teams are trained and coached
to deal with any kind of accident. Simulations are organised
on a regular basis and in partnership with the relevant authorities
and emergency services.
Nevertheless, even if there is only a minimal
risk of an accident, it is important to be able to react swiftly.
If an accident were to occur, residents living
in the vicinity of our factories would be notified immediately
via sirens installed on our site so that they can react and get
themselves
to safety. These sirens are tested regularly.
The action
to be taken in the event of an emergency is simple and easy
to remember:
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Take
cover in an enclosed
area (house, car etc.).
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Close doors and windows
and any air vents and ventilation systems.
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Connect
the TV or radio to RTBF.
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Do
not use the telephone:
leave the lines free so that emergency help can be
arranged.
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Leave
your children at school -
they are safe there. The teachers will take the same
action.
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