Illinois EPA refers Magnesium Elektron, Madison County, to Attorney General for enforcement

SPRINGFIELD—Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Director Doug Scott has asked the Illinois Attorney General's office to proceed with an enforcement action against Magnesium Elektron North America, Inc., for endangering human health and the environment as a result of a recent explosion and fire.

 

Magnesium Elektron is located in Madison County; the official mailing address is at 1001 College Street, Madison, with portions of the facility located in adjacent Venice.  Late in the evening of October 4, 2010, a fire and several explosions occurred, releasing a large plume of magnesium oxide particulates.  According to information currently available to the Illinois EPA, the incident originated at one of the coil reheating furnaces. Specific information as to the cause of the fire is still being gathered; however, it appears that the explosions were caused by a water line rupturing above the furnace allowing water to contact molten magnesium.

 

The Illinois EPA requests that Magnesium Elektron conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause of the incident and submit a detailed report to include findings and preventative measures. In addition, it should implement the recommended preventative measures to prevent a similar incident from recurring. 

 

The Illinois EPA will continue to provide technical and other support, as needed, to the Attorney General.