Major problems in Dupont Camaçari

The Brazillian union, Union of Chemistries and Petroleiros (BA), has previously called attention for the necessity of a bigger investment in health and safety for employees at this facility. Before the explosion, two accidents already had occured in Camaçari, on July 5th and August 25th. In July, an increase of pressure in a column of the aniline unit resulted in an improper reaction, causing the release of formed polymer, CO 2 , water and a trace of hydrochloric acid. The August accident involved an operator who discovered a potential phosgene release. The worker attempted to close the valve to prevent a bigger accident, but ultimately broke his hand. Prior chemical spills and accidents also occured in 2001, 2000 and 1999 at the facility.

According to BA, when an accident happens in the plant, the company tries not to file an Occupational Accident Report (CAT), and places the worker in restricted labor and puts pressure on him/her to work, even if s/he has a broken leg or arm. This is so that the statistics of labor accidents does not increase in numbers. In outsourced companies the problem is even worse. Many times the sick workers are laid off and the company does not make the CAT for the victims of an accident.

Currently, in Dupont Camaçari, the most common health problems are related to the back bone, the spine: many workers even had to undergo surgical interventions. The company also has a program establishing that any accident that occurred outside the work site has to be informed and investigated. This is a clear demonstration that there is no privacy for the workers.