Sime Darby Plantation welcomes report

Sime Darby Plantation Liberia Inc. or SDPL says it has received a Joint Ministerial Investigative Report on the September 20th fire incident that took place at its main yard in Bomi County. 

In a press release, SDPL noted that it values the input of the investigating team as it provides important feedback in the company’s effort to maintain high safety standards, but believes that there is always room for improvements and it will seriously consider recommendations from the investigation.

The release said it was established that the fire was caused by electrical sources, and SDPL is now carrying out checks on all other buildings and facilities to prevent a reoccurrence. “We will also be conducting our own investigation to establish the gaps in our existing operating procedures.”

Out of the 10 workers and contractors who sought treatment following the incident the release disclosed that nine (9) have been discharged and unfortunately one person is still undergoing treatment and SDPL has vowed to ensure that he receives the necessary medical attention.

“We are happy to note that the report acknowledged our efforts in providing workers, students and residents in the vicinity with nose masks right after the incident. In addition, SDPL had also provided clean water and frozen fish for the local residents and purchased new rice stock to replace the existing stock to eliminate any health risk to the recipients.”

To further assess the impact of the incident and to make sure there was no harmful effect to the residents, the company says it has commissioned a third party environmental consultant to undertake soil, water and air assessments of the surrounding area. SDPL will also carry out a sensitization program for workers and nearby residents to update them on the situation.

The chemical store located in the Main Yard Complex of the Bomi Estate caught fire at 10:20 AM on Sunday, September 20th. Thanks to the efforts of the dedicated staff and the Liberian Fire Service Department, the fire was put out three hours later at 13:30 PM.

Meanwhile, SDPL has thanked its employees, contractors, community members and the Government of Liberia for their assistance and cooperation. Press Release