Verrelli Bill to Ensure Workers in High Hazard Facilities are Properly Trained Clears Assembly Panel

(TRENTON) – Outside contractors working in a high-risk chemical or manufacturing facility would be required to meet certain training requirements under legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli (D-Mercer, Hunterdon). The measure was approved by the Assembly Labor Committee on Monday.

The bill (A-805), is modeled after regulations proposed in California in response to a fire in 2012 at a Chevron refinery in Richmond, California. The fire resulted in black smoke engulfing the surrounding area forcing thousands of nearby residents to seek medical attention for breathing problems.

Verrelli released the following statement:

“When working in an environment filled with chemicals and other hazards, there is little room for error. The tiniest mix-up can have drastic consequences, including explosions, fires, and injuries: sometimes, all three. We never want to see what happened in California take place here in New Jersey. While we won’t be able to prevent all accidents, the best way to ensure high-risk manufacturing facilities are able to perform their work safely is to ensure all workers are skilled and trained to do the job.”