Bayer undecided about next step following plant citations

BAYTOWN, Texas (Jan. 11)—Bayer Corp. has not determined what course of action it will take after a federal agency fined the firm about $136,000 for, among other things, allegedly exposing workers to a dangerous chemical. It expects to make a decision Jan. 13. The Pittsburgh-based company was hit with seven citations by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration after it completed an investigation of a spill at Bayer´s Baytown plant. The probe, which began July 6, was spurred by a worker´s charge that employees had been exposed to methylenedianiline following a spill at the Baytown facility. The carcinogenic chemical is used to make polyurethane. The company´s options include paying the fine, contesting the alleged citations and penalties before an independent OSHA board, or requesting a hearing on the matter. Citations included failing to alert employees of the chemical emergency, failing to establish regulated areas at the plant, and failing to ensure that employees use appropriate protective clothing and equipment.