GrainCorp fined over toxic gas leak in Port Kembla

GrainCorp fined over toxic gas leak in Port Kembla

Ships in the harbor

GrainCorp has been fined $15,000 over a gas leak in Port Kembla. Photo: Region.

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has fined GrainCorp Operations Limited $15,000.

The NSW EPA said a system failure led to a phosphine gas emission at GrainCorp’s Port Kembla Grain Terminal in March this year.

Phosphine is a toxic gas used to control pests in grain fumigation processes. It is odorless, colorless and highly flammable.

The error occurred after an operator connected the incorrect gas sampling line to the grain fumigation monitoring equipment.

As a result, both the monitoring and control systems failed, allowing the gas to be emitted in quantities above the license limit.

NSW EPA Acting Executive Director Operations Adam Gilligan said it was disappointing that GrainCorp had failed to operate control systems to properly manage this potentially harmful gas.

“Phosphine gas is dangerous and must be handled carefully,” Gilligan said.

“It is vital that systems are in place to properly control emissions and protect the community and the environment.

“We expect all control systems to function efficiently and safely. If licensees fail to do so, we will take appropriate action.”

Following the incident, GrainCorp conducted an investigation including aerial modeling. GrainCorp said its modeling shows there are no actual risks to the environment or public health.

GrainCorp notified EPA immediately upon becoming aware of the incident and is implementing a series of corrective actions and additional engineering controls to prevent future similar incidents.

To report incidents like this to the NSW EPA, call the Environment Line on 131 555 or email [email protected].