Inpex Probed for Worker Hospitalization Due to Sulphur Dioxide Exposure
The Northern Territory’s workplace safety authority is currently investigating a serious incident involving several workers at Inpex’s Ichthys gas facility in Darwin. This inquiry follows an incident in which a contractor was potentially exposed to sulphur dioxide, resulting in one worker being hospitalized.
Incident Overview
The problem arose on January 12, 2023, when a contractor employed by Altrad noticed a strong odor near the plant’s acid gas incinerators. Shortly thereafter, the worker experienced dry throat, itchiness, and a persistent cough. Two days later, the situation worsened, prompting the individual to visit the site medic. They were subsequently transferred to Palmerston Regional Hospital.
Health Implications
At the hospital, medical personnel diagnosed the worker with reactive airways disease, a respiratory condition similar to asthma. Prolonged exposure to sulphur dioxide is known to lead to significant respiratory issues and even lung damage, raising alarms about workplace safety standards.
Regulatory Response
Following a safety concern raised on January 15, NT WorkSafe commenced its investigation into the incident. Caleb Burke, an organizer with the Australian Workers’ Union in the Northern Territory, emphasized the seriousness of the hospitalization due to hazardous substance exposure. He claimed Inpex was required by law to notify authorities of such an incident.
Defining Notification Standards
During a meeting with Inpex executives in Perth, Burke reported that the company suggested the incident might not be reportable. This assertion was based on the fact that the worker did not seek treatment within 48 hours of exposure. Burke challenged this viewpoint, stating that inpatient treatment necessitates immediate notification.
Worker Concerns
In the aftermath of this incident, additional workers have expressed fears regarding exposure to sulphur dioxide, particularly around the acid gas incinerator. There are claims that management has not taken these concerns seriously, leading to a concerning atmosphere where workers feel their health complaints are ignored.
Ongoing Investigations
Inpex faces scrutiny not only for this particular incident but also due to an oil spill from October 2022 that affected Darwin Harbour. There are ongoing investigations into the company’s practices, particularly concerning the under-reporting of toxic emissions and the safety culture within the organization.
Broader Context
- Inpex’s Ichthys gas facility commenced production in 2018.
- A federal investigation is examining various safety violations related to air pollutants.
- Recent media reports suggest possible mercury poisoning at another offshore facility, highlighting broader safety concerns in the industry.
The community’s expectation is that major hazardous facilities maintain the highest safety protocols to protect workers and the environment. The outcome of these investigations may impact Inpex’s operations and worker safety standards across the industry.
