Barrow Reintroduces Combustible Dust Bill

It’s almost been one year since 14 lives were lost and dozens injured in the Imperial Sugar explosion.

Wednesday, February 4th, Congressman John Barrow reintroduced a bill aimed at protecting workers from combustible dust.

The legislation passed the house last year but the senate did not take up the bill.

The Worker Protection Against Combustible Dust Explosions and Fires Act will force the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration to issue rules regulating combustible industrial dusts, like sugar dust, that can build up to hazardous levels and explode.  While OSHA already has the authority to issue such a rule without Congress passing new legislation, the agency has failed to act despite the fact that the dangers of combustible dust have been well known for years.

Saturday is the one year anniversary and Imperial will dedicate Legacy Park to remember those lost.

We’ll broadcast that event live ... And have a look back at the last year starting at 10:30.