09/10/2024

Louisiana Chemical Association Comments on Industry Preparedness as Tropical Storm Francine Approaches

Media Contact:
Hisa Turner
(225) 376-7656
hisa@lca.org

Louisiana Chemical Association Comments on Industry Preparedness as Tropical Storm Francine Approaches

BATON ROUGE – September 10, 2024 - Today, Greg Bowser, President and CEO of the Louisiana Chemical Association (LCA), made the following statement about the Louisiana Chemical Industry’s preparedness to face major storms as Tropical Storm Francine approaches.

“As Tropical Storm Francine is scheduled to make landfall as a hurricane on the evening of Wednesday, September 11th, Louisiana’s Chemical Industry is taking proactive steps to maintain safety and limit disruption to operations. The Louisiana Chemical Association (LCA) and its member companies have comprehensive hurricane preparedness plans to safeguard workers, facilities, and the surrounding communities.

Preparation for hurricanes begins well in advance of an actual storm. During a plant’s initial construction, buildings are made using reinforced concrete and steel framing to withstand hurricane-force winds. Dikes and levees manage potential flooding to protect critical equipment. Chemical plants reinforce protocols to prevent spills, leaks, and other hazards. Employees and contractors undergo regular training sessions and drills, ensuring that everyone is prepared for evacuation, emergency procedures, and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

During a hurricane, highly trained emergency crews are on site closely monitoring the facility to ensure everyone’s safety. Each facility is closely coordinating with local and federal agencies to ensure a unified and efficient response. Following a hurricane, recovery crews will assess the site for any damage or hazards before employees are brought back onsite and facility operations are restored.

The chemical manufacturing industry goes to great lengths to prepare for hurricane season, prioritizing safety and operational continuity. This involves executing comprehensive emergency protocols, participating in routine drills, and cooperating with local agencies to keep staff and surrounding communities safe during the storm.

As always, safety is our highest priority, and we are committed to protecting our people, our environment, and the critical infrastructure that helps sustain Louisiana. We will continue to monitor the situation and communicate updates as needed, ensuring that together, we remain resilient and prepared.”

###

About the Louisiana Chemical Association

The Louisiana Chemical Association (LCA) was formed in 1959 to promote a positive business climate for chemical manufacturing that ensures long-term economic growth for its 70 member companies that operate more than 100 sites throughout Louisiana.

LCA, Louisiana Chemical Industry Alliance and related organizations work to protect and expand Louisiana’s petrochemical manufacturing base. The industry must have a unified voice in state governmental activities because legislative and regulatory actions can affect capital investment and job retention and growth.

LCA is governed by a Board of Directors that consists of 17 member company representatives, primarily plant managers and divisional vice presidents. LCA has an experienced staff with expertise in the chemical industry, environmental, health, safety, security, governmental affairs, communications and association management.