Bazan Group Responds to Benzene Scare Near Haifa Refineries
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
The Bazan Group has responded to a public scare after high benzene levels were detected near its Haifa refinery complex, leading to the closure of two nearby schools. The company stated the elevated levels were found during planned maintenance and that work was temporarily halted as a precaution. Bazan is coordinating with environmental and health authorities to address the issue and resume operations safely.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Bazan Group reported high benzene levels near its Haifa complex during planned maintenance.
- Two schools in Kiryat Ata were closed by the Health Ministry due to the benzene readings.
- Bazan temporarily halted maintenance work and is investigating the source of the elevated levels.
- Residents within a kilometer of the refineries were advised to limit outdoor activity.
- Bazan is coordinating with environmental and energy ministries to resume work safely.
The Bazan Group has responded to public concern following the Health Ministry's decision to close two nearby schools due to high benzene levels. The company stated that elevated benzene concentrations were detected at several monitoring points around the Bazan complex last Thursday, coinciding with the start of planned maintenance work at the Gadiv plant.
In response to the readings, Bazan temporarily halted the relevant work at Gadiv on Sunday as a precautionary measure. Professional teams began investigating the source of the elevated levels and formulating necessary actions. The company emphasized that the safety of its employees, the public, and the environment is its top priority, and it adheres to safety requirements and environmental standards.
The Health Ministry, in consultation with the Ministry of Environmental Protection and the local municipality, had ordered that classes at the Social High School and Erezim School in Kiryat Ata be moved to alternative locations. Residents within a kilometer radius of the refineries, particularly children and pregnant women, were advised to limit outdoor activities.
Bazan confirmed it is continuously monitoring the data and coordinating with relevant authorities, including the mayor, the Ministry of Environmental Protection, and the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. Work will resume only after the necessary actions are completed and in coordination with the Ministry of Environmental Protection.
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